How soon should I see a dentist?
Immediately. Getting to a dentist with 30 minutes can make the difference between saving or losing a tooth.

What can I do to be prepared?
Pack an emergency dental care kit, including: Dentist's phone numbers (home and office) Saline solution Handkerchief Gauze Small container with lid Ibuprofen (Not aspirin. Aspirin is an anti-coagulant, which may cause excessive bleeding in a dental emergency.)

When a tooth is pushed out of position:
Attempt to reposition the tooth to its normal alignment using very light finger pressure, but do not force the tooth. Bite down to keep the tooth from moving. The dentist may splint the tooth in place to the two healthy teeth next to the loose tooth.

When tissue is injured:
Injuries to the inside of the mouth include tears, puncture wounds and lacerations to the cheek, lips or tongue. The wound should be cleaned right away with warm water, and the injured person taken to a hospital emergency room for the necessary care. Bleeding from a tongue laceration can be reduced by pulling the tongue for-ward and using gauze to place pressure on the wound.

When a tooth is fractured:
Rinse mouth with warm water. Use an ice pack or cold compress to reduce swelling. Use ibuprofen, not aspirin, for pain. Immediately get to your dentist, who will determine treatment based on how badly the tooth is broken. Only a dentist can tell how bad the break is. Minor fracture: Minor fractures can be smoothed by your dentist with a sandpaper disc or simply left alone. Another option is to restore the tooth with a composite restoration.