Simple toothaches can
often be relieved by rinsing the mouth to clear it of debris and other matter.
Sometimes, a toothache can be caused or aggravated by a piece of debris lodged
between the tooth and another tooth. Avoid placing an aspirin between your
tooth and gum to relieve pain, because the dissolving aspirin can actually harm
your gum tissue.
Broken,
Fractured, or Displaced Tooth
A broken, fractured or displaced tooth is usually not a cause
for alarm, as long as decisive, quick action is taken.
If the tooth has been knocked out, try to place the tooth back
in its socket while waiting to see your dentist.
First, rinse the mouth of any blood or other debris and place a
cold cloth or compress on the cheek near the injury. This will keep down
swelling.
If you cannot locate the tooth back in its socket, hold the
dislocated tooth by the crown – not the root. Next, place it in a container of
warm milk, saline or the victim’s own saliva and keep it in the solution until
you arrive at the emergency room or dentist’s office.
For a fractured tooth, it is best to rinse with warm water and
again, apply a cold pack or compress. Ibuprofen may be used to help keep down
swelling.
If the tooth fracture is minor, the tooth can be sanded or if
necessary, restored by the dentist if the pulp is not severely damaged.
If a child’s primary tooth has been loosened by an injury or an
emerging permanent tooth, try getting the child to gently bite down on an apple
or piece of caramel; in some cases, the tooth will easily separate from the
gum.