Quick answer
Clean the area gently, use a cold compress for swelling, and save any broken pieces — or a knocked-out tooth in milk. A knocked-out permanent tooth is the true emergency: hold it by the crown, rinse without scrubbing, and get to a dentist immediately.
What to do before you get to the dentist!
A resource from Aloha Pediatric Dentistry
Toothache
- Gently clean around the sore tooth
- Rinse with warm salt water
- Use dental floss to remove trapped food
- Don’t put aspirin on gums or teeth
- Apply a cold compress for swelling
- You can give acetaminophen for pain
- See a dentist as soon as possible!
Broken Braces or Wires
- Remove if it comes out easily
- Cover sharp edges with:
- Dental wax
- Cotton balls
- Gauze or chewing gum
- Don’t try to remove wires stuck in gums or cheeks
- Go to the dentist right away if it’s causing pain
Knocked-Out Permanent Tooth
- Find the tooth and hold it by the crown (top)
- Rinse gently – don’t scrub or touch the root
- Try to place it back in the socket (bite on gauze to hold it)
- If you can’t reinsert, place the tooth in milk
- Time matters – see a dentist immediately!
Cut or Bitten Lip, Cheek, or Tongue
- Apply ice to bruised areas
- Use gauze and press gently if it’s bleeding
- If bleeding doesn’t stop in 15 minutes, go to the ER
Broken Tooth
- Rinse the mouth gently with warm water
- Use a cold compress on the face near the injury
- Save any broken tooth pieces
- See a dentist right away
Other Emergencies
Possible Broken Jaw
- Keep the jaw still using a towel or scarf
- Go to the emergency room immediately
Bleeding After a Baby Tooth Falls Out
- Fold clean gauze and press it onto the spot
- Have the child bite down for 15 minutes
- Repeat once if needed – see a dentist if it won’t stop
Cold or Canker Sores
- Over-the-counter remedies help
- Call your dentist if they don’t go away – sometimes it can signal a bigger issue
Visit us: www.alohakidsdds.com
Proudly following American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry guidelines
Our Locations:
Ready to book a first visit?
On this page
Ameneh Khosrovani DDS, MS
Book a first visit
New patients welcome — first visits are paced around your child.
Book onlineSouth Berkeley · (510) 848-6494North Berkeley · (510) 528-1546Orinda · (925) 253-8190This guide is general information for parents, not dental advice for a specific child. If you're worried about your child's teeth, call us.
%201.avif)
