Dental First Aid
- A cold pack, such as a package of frozen peas, applied to the outside of the face often helps dull the pain and will minimize the swelling.
- If a tooth is knocked out of the mouth, hold it by the top of the tooth, not the root, and gentle rinse under running water. If possible, gently replace it into the socket. If this is not possible, store it in milk (best) or water until you see a dentist.
- Sometimes lingering or constant toothache pain is helped by cold -either directly on tooth with cold water or with a cold pack on the outside of the mouth.
- If a tooth suddenly becomes loose, it may be abscessed. Limit your diet to very soft food or just liquids until you can see a dentist.
- If a dental crown or filling comes out, best not to try to replace in the tooth yourself. Keep the crown or any parts of the filling or tooth clean until you see a dentist. Rinse with warm water and keep your mouth as clean as possible.1
Have you been hit in the face or mouth?
- Apply an ice pack to the outside of the mouth over the injured area.
- If a tooth is knocked out, hold it by the crown (top of the tooth, not the root) and rinse it gently in water. If you can easily replace it in the tooth socket, do so. If you cannot replace it, store it in milk (best) or water.
- Seek dental attention immediately, Knocked-out teeth can sometimes be retained if they are treated quickly.
Lost crown or filling
- If a dental crown or filling comes out, best not to try to replace the tooth yourself.
- Keep the crown or any parts of the filling or tooth clean until you see a dentist.
- Rinse with warm water and keep your mouth as clean as possible.