If you find yourself involved in a dental emergency, the first thing to remember is to stay calm. The second thing is to pick up the phone and call High Desert Dental in Boise, Idaho at 208-350-6795 right away. In the short interim between your call and your dental appointment, here are some simple first aid tactics you can try:

Chipped Teeth

Rinse with any warm water any teeth fragments into a bowl. Take the largest pieces out and drop them in a cold glass of water or milk. Dr. Trista Pottenger will look at them later to assess the damage and see if there is a use for them. Then apply a cold compress to the cheek to prevent or reduce swelling.

Loose or Missing Teeth

Use cold water to rinse the mouth of any blood. If the tooth is loose, avoid disturbing it; a clean tissue or towel will hold a loose tooth in place. If you are extra prepared and have over-the-counter dental cement, now would be the time to use it. If the tooth is completely knocked out, place it in a glass of cold water or milk and bring it to your appointment. A cool ice pack will help alleviate pain and swelling.

Toothache

First, gargle a mixture of salt and tap water. One or more of these remedies will help with the pain: an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory (i.e. ibuprofen, naproxen or aspirin), an oral anesthetic, or a cold ice pack to the cheek.

Fractured Jaw

You may already know that the ER or an oral surgeon are the best resources for this injury. In the aftermath of the injury, rinse with water to remove blood. Stay as comfortable as possible in a reclined chair or in bed, keeping the jaw very still.

High Desert Dental recognizes the concern and urgency of these circumstances. Call us at 208-350-6795 to receive speedy, superb dental relief.