Common dental emergencies and how to help.

When pediatric dental emergencies occur, we’re here to help. We’ve taken the time to list the four most common dental emergencies and how to best address them - if and when they do occur - to achieve the best possible outcome. Having this information handy can help empower you in a moment of crisis.

Severe dental pain can limit you from normal daily activities and lead to further complications so make a dental appointment as soon as possible.To help soothe the pain of a toothache, begin by cleaning around the sore tooth meticulously. Using warm salt water, rinse the mouth to displace any food trapped between the teeth. Do NOT use aspirin on the aching tooth or gums. In the event of facial swelling apply a cold compress to that area. For pain relief acetaminophen is recommended.

Cold compress can be applied to any bruised areas. If there is any bleeding, apply firm but gentle pressure with sterile gauze or a clean cloth. If the bleeding does not stop with pressure within 15 minutes, proceed to an emergency room.

Needless to say, make an appointment to get immediate dental attention. In the meantime, rinse the area with warm water and apply a cold compress over the facial area of the injury.

If at all possible, recover the dislocated tooth. Make sure to hold it by the crown (top) and not the root end. Rinse the tooth but do not clean or handle the tooth more than necessary. Reinsert the tooth in the socket and hold it in place using a clean piece of gauze or cloth. If the tooth cannot be reinserted, place it into a cup or container with milk. In cases like this, time is of the essence - seek the attention of your dentist immediately.