Cracked_Teeth

Broken, Cracked or Displaced Teeth

A broken, cracked 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 taken 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.