Dental emergencies most commonly occur in children between the ages of two and ten, but may sometimes involve teenagers and adults. Here is how you can relieve the pain and lessen the severity of a dental injury before you get to a dentist.
Knocked-out tooth
- Locate the tooth.
- If the tooth is dirty, rinse it under running water. Do not scrub.
- Put the tooth in a glass of cold water or milk, or keep it in the mouth.
Contact us immediately
- If we are not available, contact the closest hospital or dial 15 for the Emergency Merdical Care Services (SAMU - Service d'Aide Medicale d'Urgence)
- The fastest the tooth is put back in place, the better the healing will be. Act as promptly as possible
Broken tooth
- Gently clean the affected area with lukewarm water.
- Apply an ice pack to the affected area.
Contact us immediately
Bitten tongue or lip
- Using a clean cloth, apply direct pressure to the wound to stop the bleeding.
- If there is swelling, apply cold compresses to the wound.
- If bleeding persists, contact us
Swelling or gum abscess
- Rinse the mouth with lukewarm salt water four times a day.
- Take an analgesic.
- Apply lukewarm compresses to the face.
Contact us as soon as possible.
Particle lodged between the teeth
- Try to remove the particle with dental floss. Do not use a pointed or sharp instrument.
- If the particle cannot be dislodged, contact us.
Injury from an orthodontic appliance
- If an orthodontic appliance or component (e.g. a wire) is causing injury to the soft tissues of the mouth, place a piece of wax on the part that is causing the irritation. Contact us if required.