Toothache:
A very persistent toothache is always a sign that you need to see your dentist as soon as practicable.
In the meantime:
- try to obtain relief by rinsing the mouth with water;
- try to clean out debris from any obvious cavities;
- use dental floss to remove any food that might be trapped within the cavity (especially between the teeth);
- if swelling is present, place a cold compress to the outside of the cheek;
- take pain relief if necessary
Knocked out tooth:
If a tooth is knocked out, time is critical for successful replanting, so undertake to get to your dentist within 30 minutes. If the tooth is dirty, rinse the tooth in milk holding it by the crown (not roots). If milk is not available, rinse the tooth in water for a few seconds only, or have patient suck it clean, then put the tooth back in the socket. If the tooth cannot be replanted, wrap in cling wrap or place it in milk or in the patient’s mouth inside the cheek.
Broken tooth:
You should go to your dentist as soon as practicable after breaking a tooth. Try to clean debris from the injured area with warm water. If caused by a blow, place a cold compress on the face next to the injured tooth to minimize swelling. Try to find all the bits that are missing and bring them to your dentist, keeping them moist. Some broken bits can be bonded back onto the teeth almost invisibly.
