Dental emergencies frequently happen and do not always occur at convenient times. Here is a list of some common problems and tips that may help until you can see us.
Knocked Out Permanent Tooth
- Locate the tooth
- Try to reinsert the tooth into its socket.
- If you can’t reinsert the tooth then put it in milk.
- Do not scrub or clean the tooth you could damage the root
- See Dr. Boyd immediately. Time is a critical factor in saving the tooth.
Toothache
- Clean the area around the tooth that is hurting. Rinse the mouth with warm salt water and use dental floss to dislodge any trapped food.
- Give Ibuprofen as directed on the package.
- If face is swollen, apply a cold compress
- See Dr. Boyd as soon as possible.
Broken Tooth
- Rinse dirt from injured area with warm water.
- Locate any broken fragments and place them in a container.
- Place a cold compress over the face in the area of the injury.
- See Dr. Boyd immediately and bring tooth fragments with you.
Cut Lip, Tongue or Cheek
- Control bleeding with a clean gauze or washcloth by applying firm but gentle pressure.
- Apply ice when bleeding stops.
- If bleeding does not stop after 15 minutes or it cannot be controlled by simple pressure, take the child to a hospital emergency room.
If you have a serious dental emergency you can usually contact Dr. Boyd by paging him at (606) 482-4195. If you cannot contact Dr. Boyd, take your child to your local hospital emergency room.