A broken, fractured or displaced tooth is usually not a cause for alarm. Decisive, quick action is necessary.

If the tooth has been knocked out, try to place the tooth back in its socket. Come in to see us immediately.

Your tooth may be saved with your quick action.

1. Rinse the mouth of any blood or other debris.
2. Place a cold cloth or compress on the cheek near the injury. This will keep down swelling.
3. If the tooth won’t go back in its socket, hold the dislocated tooth by the crown – not the root.
4. Place it in a container of warm milk, saline or the victim’s own saliva.
5. Keep it in the solution until you arrive at the emergency room or dentist’s office.

For a fractured tooth:

1. Rinse with warm water.
2. Apply a cold pack or compress.
3. Use Ibuprofen to keep down swelling.

If the tooth fracture is minor, the tooth can be sanded or if necessary, restored by the dentist if the pulp is not severely damaged.

If a child’s primary tooth has been loosened by an injury or an emerging permanent tooth, try getting the child to gently bite down on an apple or piece of caramel. In some cases, the tooth will easily separate from the gum.

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