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Toothache
Rinse the mouth vigorously with warm saltwater to dislodge trapped food.
Also use a toothpick, or tie a knot in a piece of dental floss, to clean
away debris. The best over-the-counter products for toothaches are aspirin
and ibuprofen-like compounds, while acetaminophen (Tylenol) is minimally
effective. DO NOT hold aspirin in the mouth to dissolve as it is an acid
and will cause a chemical burn. Immediately see a dentist or visit a hospital
emergency room.
Knocked
Out Permanent Teeth
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Find the tooth, and handle it by the smooth top (crown). You may
rinse the tooth but DO NOT clean the root portion or handle unnecessarily.
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Attempt
to reinsert the tooth into its socket. If the root is not dirty
or damaged from mishandling, this is your very best opportunity
for successful reattachment, so just do it! Hold the tooth in place
by biting on a clean gauze or cloth.
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See
a dentist immediately, or go to a hospital emergency room. If reinsertion
is not possible, carry the tooth in milk, or place in water if milk
is unavailable. Time is a critical factor in saving the tooth.
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Broken
Tooth
Rinse dirt from injured area with warm water. Locate and save any broken
tooth fragments. Immediate dental attention is necessary.
| These
are several examples of the many damaged smiles we have successfully
put back together |
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Cut
or Bitten Tongue, Lip, or Cheek
Apply ice to the injured area. Apply firm but gentle pressure with a clean
cloth if there is bleeding. If bleeding does not stop after 15 minutes
or it cannot be controlled by simple pressure, go to a hospital emergency
room.
Possible
Broken Jaw
If a blow to the jaw area results in the teeth not seating properly together,
a fractured jaw is possible. Try to keep the jaw from moving by using
a towel, tie, or handkerchief wrapped over the head and under the chin.
Go to the nearest hospital emergency room.
Bleeding
After Baby Tooth Loss
Fold and place a clean gauze or cloth over the bleeding area. Have the
child bite on the gauze with pressure for 15 minutes. This may be repeated
once, but if bleeding persists you should contact a dentist.
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