Knowing what to do when and accident occurs can mean the difference between saving and losing a tooth.  When you have a dental emergency, visit your dentist or emergency room as soon as possible.

Here are some tips for common dental emergencies from the ADA:

• For a knocked-out permanent or adult tooth, keep it moist at all times.  If you can, try placing the tooth back in the socket without touching the root.  If that's not possible, place it between  your cheek and gums or in milk.  Then, get to the dentist office right away.
• For a cracked tooth, immediately rinse the mouth with warm water to clean the area.  Put cold compresses on the face to keep any swelling down.
• If you bite your tongue or lip, clean the area gently with water and apply a cold compress.
• For toothaches, rinse the mouth with warm water to clean it out.  Gently use dental floss to remove any food caught between the teeth.  Do not put aspirin on the aching tooth or gum tissues.
• For objects stuck in the mouth, try to gently remove with floss but do not try to remove it with sharp or pointed instruments.

Recently had an extraction and have concerns?  Click below for Post-Op Extraction Care:

Post-Op Extraction Instructions

If you have an emergency & need to speak with Dr. Staley-Henne, please call: 812-264-5024