Toothache
If you have a severe toothache, start by cleaning the tooth and the area around the sore tooth very carefully. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to displace any food that might be trapped between the teeth or gums. For temporary relief, you can take acetaminophen, but you should not use aspirin on the aching tooth or gum. If there is swelling, apply a cold compress to your face. If the pain persists for longer than a day, please contact our dental office to come in for an appointment.
Cut or Bruised Tongue, Lip, or Cheek
If there is bruising to your mouth, you can apply ice to alleviate swelling. If there is bleeding, you should apply firm pressure to the area with sterile gauze or a clean cloth. If 15 minutes of constant pressure does not stop the bleeding, you should go to the emergency room.
Broken Braces or Wires
You should only attempt to remove a broken appliance if it will come out easily. If it is painful to remove or has become lodged in place, you should cover any exposed or protruding areas with wax, cotton, or chewing gum. If there are any wires caught in the gums, cheeks, or tongue, you should not try to remove them yourself. Visit the dentist immediately. Emergency attention is not necessary if the broken appliance does not cause damage or pain, but please call the dentist to schedule a visit as soon as possible.
Broken Tooth
If part of a tooth is broken, you should rinse the affected area with warm water and place a cold compress over the facial area. Try to recover any broken tooth fragments and seek immediate dental attention.
Knocked-Out Permanent Tooth
If a tooth is knocked out, you should hold it by the crown of the tooth, avoiding touching the root. Rinse the tooth only as much as necessary, and insert the tooth into the socket if possible, or produce as much saliva as possible and place it in your mouth. If this is not possible, carry the tooth in a cup containing milk. If the patient is able to move and does not need more pressing emergency attention, go straight to the dentist as quickly as possible.
Possible Broken Jaw
If there is a serious jaw injury, keep the mouth closed by carefully tying it with a cloth, tie, scarf, or towel, and go straight to the nearest emergency room.
Bleeding After Losing Baby Teeth
When a baby tooth falls out, you should fold a small piece of gauze and place it tightly over the area that is bleeding. Bite down on the gauze and keep it in place for 15 minutes. If bleeding persists, you should contact the dentist.
Cold Sores or Canker Sores
Over-the-counter medications typically provide sufficient relief for cold and canker sores. If the sores persist or are extreme, visit your dentist for professional treatment.
For more information on how to care for a dental emergency in Ashburn, Virginia, please feel free to contact us at Ashburn General Dentistry. Dr. Amit B. Patel and his team are committed to helping you keep your smile healthy.