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DENTAL EMERGENCY

A DENTAL EMERGENCY INCLUDES A LOOSE, BROKEN, OR KNOCKED-OUT TOOTH. IF YOU HAVE A DENTAL EMERGENCY, SEE YOUR DENTIST RIGHT AWAY.

A BROKEN OR LOOSE TOOTH
Here are some things you can do until you can see your dentist

• Put a cold ice pack on the area to bring down swelling. (Ice wrapped in a cloth will work),
• Save any broken tooth pieces, Put them in a jar with milk or wrap them in a wet cloth.
• Take the broken tooth pieces to the dentist

A KNOCKED-OUT TOOTH
Protect your tooth until you can see your dentist

• Pick up the tooth without touching the root
• Rinse the tooth in a bowl of tap water
• Do not rub the tooth to get rid of dirt
• Try to put the tooth in the hole in your mouth. Bite down gently on gauze or a piece of clean cotton cloth to keep it in place.
• If the tooth cannot be put back in the hole, put it in a cup of milk, in your own saliva or in water. Do not let the tooth dry out

PROTECT YOUR TEETH DO:

• Do brush and floss your teeth every day with fluoride toothpaste.
• Do see your dentist for regular check-ups (at least once a year).
• If you play sports, wear a mouth guard.
• Do wear a seat belt every time you ride in a car:

DO NOT:

• Do not chew on ice, pens, or pencils.
• Do not use your teeth to open bottles or jars.
• Do not rub your teeth together: This will wear your teeth down.
• Do not suck on lemons or chew aspirin or vitamin C tablets. These have acid in them, and will wear away tooth enamel. (Enamel helps keep teeth strong).
• Do not smoke or chew tobacco. These tips can help keep you from having a dental emergency.