1304_22_a_1_ii Dental Emergency  Procedure (8/97)

1.      Toothache

a) Rinse the mouth with warm water to clean out debris. 

b) If swelling is present, use cold compress on outside of cheek. Call parent/guardian to take child to the dentist.

2.      Knocked out Tooth

a) Gently rinse the tooth in clear water without touching the root.

b) DO NOT SCRUB THE TOOTH!

c) Gently insert and hold tooth in its socket.  If not possible, place tooth in a glass of cool water or milk. 

d) Take the child immediately to the dentists (within 30 minutes); call prior to arrival to hospital emergency room or prompt care.  Don’t forget to take the tooth!

3.      Broken Tooth

a) Gently rinse the mouth with warm water.

b) Place cold compresses in injured area to minimize swelling.

c) Take the child to the dentists, hospital emergency room or prompt care immediately.

4.      Bitten Tongue or Lip

a) Apply direct pressure to bleeding area with a clean cloth.

b) Apply cold compress if swelling is present. 

c) If bleeding does not stop, call parent to take child to the hospital emergency room.

5.      Possible Fractured Jaw

a) Immobilize the jaw by any means (handkerchief, towel etc). 

b) If swelling is present, apply cold compresses. 

c) Call ambulance immediately and notify parent.