1. Find the knocked-out tooth. Try not to handle the tooth by the root. Handle the tooth by the top part (the crown).

2. Clean the tooth by gently and quickly rinsing in cold water. Do not scrub or use soap on the tooth.

3. Attempt to replace the tooth in the socket. Don't worry too much about the alignment. If able to replace the tooth, gently bite down on gauze or a clean cloth or rag. Call the dentist for immediate attention.

4. If it is not possible to replace the tooth, place it in a container with milk. Do not wrap the tooth. Call the dentist for immediate attention. The tooth has the best chance for successful re-implantation if it is replaced within 30 minutes from being knocked out.

5. Allow the dentist to reimplant and splint the tooth.

6. Teeth that have been knocked out require frequent follow-up.

Oftentimes the tooth will die and require root canal treatment. The dentists at Desert Ridge Dental have advanced training in treating teeth that have been knocked loose and out by trauma. Time is of the essence in treating these dental emergencies. Please call for immediate attention.

1. Clean the area. This is best accomplished by gently flossing, brushing, and rinsing.
2. Rinse vigorously with warm salt water to dislodge any trapped food or debris.
3. Do not place an aspirin on your gums. It will not help and will cause a chemical burn.
4. Applying a cold compress may help to relieve pain and control swelling.
5. Consider taking a pain reliever. Tooth pain is generally caused by inflammation. An anti-inflammatory pain reliever (Advil or Aleve) may be helpful.
6. Give us a call! Toothaches are a sign that something is wrong.

There are a few helpful ways to take care of the sensitive "hole" that is left after a filling has fallen out until you can see your dentist.

1. Orthodontic wax: It is soft and moldable and will help protect the sensitive area until you can have it treated properly. It is found in most drug stores.
2. Temporary dental filling: Found in many drug stores. The wax solution is usually less messy.
3. Call our dental office: we will be able to see you the same day.

1. If you have persistent pain following chipping or breaking your tooth, you need to call the dentist immediately as this indicates a possible injury to the tooth nerve.
2. If you do not experience pain or sensitivity in the affected area, generally you will just need to call a schedule a non-emergency appointment in order to have the chipped or broken portion replaced. Although, we'd be happy to see you today.
3. If you really will be unable to see a dentist for some time, you might also gently smooth the rough area using an emery board to lessen the roughness. Don't wait too long though, as the tooth that has chipped even though it does not cause pain may be a sign of a more serious problem.

When you feel something stuck between your teeth, try one or more of these tips to help remove it.

1. Floss normally.
2. If flossing normally doesn't work, tie a knot in your floss and carefully place the floss between your teeth and pull the knot through gently.
3. If the first two do not work, a little trick is to place a toothpick in between the two teeth where the item is lodged. Push it in slightly so it stays in place and keep it there for a minute or two. This allows your teeth to move slightly. Push on the toothpick once more so the teeth will move a bit further and wait a couple of minutes again. Then remove the toothpick and try flossing again.
4. If you still can't get it out, let us give it a try. We've got a few tricks up our sleeves.