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DENTAL EMERGENCIES
WHAT TO DO IN A DENTAL EMERGENCY - For a serious dental emergency involving recent pain, bleeding, or swelling call your family dentist. If the office is not open and there is no emergency number provided, you can contact the Victoria Emergency Dental Service at 1-800-841-3504, or go to the nearest hospital emergency centre. However, there may be some actions you can begin yourself to control the situation and keep it from becoming more serious.
Tooth Ache - Begin by cleaning the area around the sore tooth and rinse using warm salt water to dislodge any food that may be trapped between teeth. In the event of facial swelling, apply a cold compress to the area. For temporary pain relief, use Tylenol® or Advil® as directed by your pharmacist. Call your dentist's office and make an appointment as soon as possible.
Bitten or Bleeding Tongue, Lip or Cheek - Apply an icepack to any bruised areas. For bleeding, use a clean cloth or sterile gauze and apply firm pressure to the area. If the bleeding does not stop with pressure or continues after 15 minutes, we recommend you go to an emergency clinic or the hospital emergency centre.
Broken Braces and Wires - If you have a broken orthodontic appliance, cover any painful or protruding edges with dental wax, gauze, or chewing gum to protect your mouth from possible cuts. Remove the appliance only if it comes out easily. DO NOT REMOVE any wire caught in the gums, cheek or tongue; see your orthodontist immediately. Emergency attention is not usually not required for loose wires that cause no discomfort.
Canker Sores or Cold Sores - Over-the-counter medications often provide temporary relief. Cancker sores usually heal within two weeks. We recommend you see your dentist if: your canker sore persists more than two weeks, is unusually large (one centimeter in diameter or large), is accompanied by a persistent high fever, you have difficulty drinking, or the pain is unbearable.
Broken or Knocked Out Teeth - Rinse area with warm salt water. Use a cold compress on the facial side on the area of the injury. If you are able to recover the tooth or any fragments, wrap in tissue and place in a baggie, as the dentist may be able to use these for the restoration. If the tooth is intact (including root) place in a cup containing milk or water. Call your dentist immediately as prompt attention may be essential.
Jaw Injury - for serious injury, or if you suspect the jaw may be broken, tie the mouth closed with a towel, tie or handkerchief. Seek immediate attention at your hospital emergency room.