Your tooth has fallen out, you’ve bitten through your lip, or you have a fever accompanying a toothache. What should you do? When you have a dental emergency, you need to see your dentist as soon as possible. However, there are additional actions you can take.
You Have Lost A Tooth
- Replant the tooth in your mouth. Do not touch the root; clean it with milk or water if it is dirty.
- If you cannot replant the tooth, keep it moist by storing it in milk, a tooth preservation solution, or your own mouth.
You Have Bitten Your Lip And Tongue Hard
- Gently wash the area with water.
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
- Slow bleeding by pressing a gauze pad to the area.
You Have Chipped A Tooth
- Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean it.
- Apply a cold compress outside the face to bring down swelling.
- If bleeding, apply a gauze pad to the area until it stops (about 10 minutes).
You Have A Toothache
- Rinse your mouth with warm water.
- Gently floss your teeth.
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
- Take a mild pain killer (but do not place it directly to the tooth because it can burn oral tissue).