What to Do in a Dental Emergency

Knocked-out permanent tooth Hold the tooth by the crown, not the root. If it is dirty, rinse it gently without scrubbing. Keep it moist in milk or a suitable tooth-preservation solution and seek urgent dental care. Do not reinsert a baby tooth. Severe toothache or swelling Use a cold compress on the outside of the face and follow safe over-the-counter medicine advice from a pharmacist. Do not place heat, chemicals, or crushed tablets on the gum. Swelling with fever or difficulty swallowing needs urgent care. Broken or displaced tooth Save any broken fragment, rinse gently, and avoid chewing on the area. A dentist can assess whether the tooth can be repaired and whether the nerve or supporting tissues are involved. Bleeding after an injury or procedure Apply firm, continuous pressure with clean gauze. If bleeding remains heavy, the person feels faint, or there is a serious facial injury, go to an emergency department immediately.