When you should contact us
Contact us on 01423 503 428 if there is:
- tooth knocked out
- swelling
- uncontrolled bleeding
If a tooth has been knocked out
Seek help from your dentist as soon as possible. If you have the tooth, use the Pick it, Lick it, Stick it approach:
- Pick it
- Pick the tooth up by the crown (the white, top part). Don’t touch the root (bottom part).
- Rinse your mouth with water and clean away any blood
Lick it
If you see that the tooth is dirty, lick it clean or pour water over it. Don’t scrub the tooth
Stick it
Gently stick the tooth back into the hole in your gum and bite down on a hanky to hold it in place
It’s important to then make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible and not drink or eat anything in the meantime – this might dislodge the tooth or introduce bacteria into the hole.
What if it won’t go back in?
If the tooth doesn’t go back easily, put it in a container submerged in milk or your own saliva. This will protect it until you can see your dentist.
If it’s a baby tooth
Do not put a baby tooth back into the child’s mouth, this could damage the tooth that’s growing underneath.
If you’re unsure whether it’s an adult or baby tooth it’s best to err on the side of caution. Put the tooth in a container of milk (or have your child spit into a container) and take it to your dentist.
If a crown or bridge has come out
Clean the crown or bridge and try to refit it. If it doesn’t feel snug then leave it out until your dentist has checked it. If it feels secure then you could try either a temporary cementation kit (such as a ‘Dentanurse’ kit) or a denture fixative to secure the crown/bridge as a temporary measure. Whilst a lost crown or bridge wouldn’t normally be classed as an urgent emergency it is important to seek dental advice as soon as possible.
If you have toothache or other dental pain
There are many reasons for toothache or dental pain. You should contact the practice as soon as you can for advice.
During surgery hours: Call us on 01423 503 428
Outside surgery hours: 07526847637 for patients of the practice
