Tooth Ache

Begin
by cleaning around the sore tooth meticulously. Using warm salt water,
rinse the mouth to displace any food trapped between teeth. UNDER NO
CIRCUMSTANCES should you use aspirin on the aching tooth or on the gum.
In the event of facial swelling, apply a cold compress to the area. For
temporary pain relief, acetaminophen is recommended. See a dentist as
soon as possible.

Cut or Bitten Tongue, Lip or Cheek

Ice
can be applied to any bruised areas. For bleeding, apply firm (but
gentle) pressure with sterile gauze or a clean cloth. If the bleeding
does not stop with pressure or continues after 15 minutes, go to an
emergency room.

Broken Braces and Wires

Remove a broken
appliance only if it comes out easily. If it is lodged or painful to
remove, cover any protruding edges with wax, cotton balls, gauze or
chewing gum. DO NOT REMOVE any wire caught in the gums, cheek or
tongue; see a dentist immediately. Emergency attention is usually not
required for loose or broken appliances that cause no discomfort.

Broken Tooth

Rinse
the area with warm water. Put a cold compress over the facial area of
the injury. Recover any broken tooth fragments. Get immediate dental
attention.

Knocked Out Permanent Tooth

Recover the
tooth, making sure to hold it by the crown (top) and not the root end.
Rinse, 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, carry it in
a cup containing milk or water. Because time is essential, see a
dentist immediately.

Other Emergency Conditions:

Possible Broken Jaw

In the event of jaw injury, tie the mouth closed with a towel, tie or handkerchief. Go immediately to an emergency room.

Bleeding After a Baby Tooth Falls Out

Fold
a piece of gauze and place it (tightly) over the bleeding area. Bite
down on the gauze for 15 minutes; if bleeding continues, see a dentist.

Cold or Canker Sores

Over-the-counter medications will usually provide temporary relief. If sores persist, visit your dentist.