Emergency Info
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. Please contact us for an appointment if the pain persists more than a day.
Dry Socket
Dry socket occurs when the extraction area is exposed to air, food and fluids before it is completely healed, thus causing inflammation and pain. This happens when the blood clot dissolves or dislodges too soon. Dry socket is very common and normally occurs one to three days following the extraction. Contact us if you believe you may have a dry socket so your doctor can initiate the appropriate treatments to encourage healing and reduce pain. Over-the-counter medications don't fully treat the symptoms of dry socket.
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 Tooth
Rinse the area with warm water. Put a cold compress over the facial area of the injury. Recover any broken tooth fragments. Seek immediate dental attention.
Knocked Out Permanent Tooth
Recover the tooth, making sure to hold it by the crown (top) and not the root. 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.
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.
Rigid Fixation Emergency
Patients who have undergone rigid fixation jaw surgery will be on a liquid diet for the duration of their treatment. In the event of an emergency, a wire cutter may be used to release the bond of the jaws. Contact us immediately to determine what steps need to be taken to complete the treatment.