Dental Emergencies: First Steps After a Tooth Injury
A broken or knocked-out tooth can be upsetting. The most useful response is to protect the area and contact a dentist immediately for instructions. A serious injury, uncontrolled bleeding, or difficulty breathing requires emergency medical care.
If a permanent tooth is knocked out
Handle it by the crown rather than the root. Do not scrub the root or let the tooth dry out. Contact a dentist at once for guidance on safe replacement or transport; milk can help keep a tooth moist when immediate replacement is not possible. Never reinsert a knocked-out baby tooth. Time matters, so avoid delaying care while searching for a perfect storage container.
If a tooth chips or cracks
Save any fragments, rinse gently, and avoid chewing on the affected side. A cold compress outside the face may help with swelling. Do not use household glue to repair a tooth. Call Atlantic Dental Associates and describe the injury, bleeding, and any pain. The team can help determine the next dental step, while severe symptoms should go directly to emergency medical services.