Emergencies
If you or someone you know has an accident, please call us as soon as possible:
(704) 706-9030
We will see the patient immediately. The first 30 minutes after an accident are the most critical to treating dental trauma.
Scenarios:
Knocked Out Permanent Tooth
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Find the tooth. Handle the tooth by the crown, not the root portion.
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You may briefly rinse the tooth with saline or milk, but DO NOT clean or handle the tooth unnecessarily.
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Inspect the tooth for fractures.
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If it is not broken, try to reinsert it in its socket. Have the patient keep the tooth in place by biting on gauze.
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If you cannot reinsert the tooth, transport the tooth in a cup containing milk. Time is critical. Seek immediate dental care!
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Note: Primary (baby) teeth are not generally replaced in the socket as this can damage the permanent tooth underneath, however, prompt care by a dentist is recommended.
Broken Tooth
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Rinse dirt from the injured area with warm water.
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Place a cold compress over the area of the injury.
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Locate and save any broken tooth fragments.
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Immediate dental attention is necessary.
Broken Braces and Wires
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If a broken appliance can be removed easily, take it out. If it cannot, cover the sharp or protruding portion with wax.
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If a wire is stuck in the gum, cheek or tongue, do not remove it. Take the patient to a dentist immediately.
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Asymptomatic loose or broken appliances do not usually require emergency attention.
Cut or Bitten Tongue, Lip or Cheek
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Rinse the mouth or area of injury with warm salt water or hydrogen peroxide diluted with water (50% water & 50% hydrogen peroxide).
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If the patient’s lip or cheek is swollen, apply cold compresses.
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Take the patient to a dentist.
Toothache
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Clean the area of the affected tooth thoroughly.
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Rinse the mouth vigorously with warm water or use dental floss to dislodge impacted food or debris.
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DO NOT place aspirin on the gum or on the aching tooth. If the patient’s face is swollen, apply cold compresses.
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Take the patient to a dentist.