InfoBites
Learn what those dental words mean.
Get dental news feeds delivered directly to your desktop! more...
What is a Dental Emergency?
Injuries to the mouth may include teeth that are knocked out (avulsed), forced out of position and loosened (extruded) or fractured. In addition, lips, gums or cheeks are often cut. Oral injuries are often painful and should be treated by a dentist as soon as possible.
How soon should I see a dentist?
Immediately. Getting to a dentist within 30 minutes can make the difference between saving or losing a tooth.
What should I do when a tooth is knocked out?
?xml:namespace>
What should I do when a tooth is pushed out of position?
What should I do when a tooth is fractured?
Moderate fracture: Moderate fractures include damage to the enamel, dentin and/or pulp (nerve and other live tissues). If the pulp is not permanently damaged, the tooth may be restored with a full permanent crown. If damage to the pulp does occur, further dental treatment will be required.
Severe fracture: Severe fractures often mean a traumatized tooth with slim chance of recovery.
What should I do when tissue is injured?
Injuries to the inside of the mouth include tears, puncture wounds and lacerations to the cheek, lips or tongue. The wound should be cleaned right away with warm water, and the injured person taken to a hospital emergency room for the necessary care. Bleeding from a tongue laceration can be reduced by pulling the tongue forward and using gauze to place pressure on the wound.
What can I do to be prepared?