Emergency Dentistry
Please call (916) 929-5534 in the event of a dental emergency. If you need urgent treatment after office hours, our answering service is available to help you reach Dr. Birch, Dr. Keilson or the On Call Doctor.
Below you will find tips to handle minor oral emergencies and common problems. If the situation is more serious, or is life threatening, dial 9-1-1. If you have further questions, or wish to schedule an appointment, contact our office and a team member will be happy to assist you.
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Loose Tooth
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If your child has a very loose tooth, it should be removed to avoid being swallowed or inhaled.
Tooth Ache
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Begin by cleaning around the sore tooth meticulously. Using warm salt water, rinse the mouth to displace any food trapped between teeth. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES should you use aspirin on the aching tooth or on the gum. In the event of facial swelling, apply a cold compress to the area. For temporary pain relief, acetaminophen is recommended. See a dentist as soon as possible.
Cut or Bitten Tongue, Lip or Cheek
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Ice can be applied to any bruised areas. For bleeding, apply firm (but gentle) pressure with sterile gauze or a clean cloth. If the bleeding does not stop with pressure or continues after 15 minutes, go to an emergency room. Give us a call to help determine how serious the bite is.
Broken Tooth
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Rinse the area with warm water. Put a cold compress over the facial area of the injury. Recover any broken tooth fragments. Call the dental office.
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Knocked Out Permanent Tooth
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Recover the tooth, making sure to hold it by the crown (top) and not the root end. Rinse, but do not clean or handle the tooth more than necessary. Reinsert the tooth in the socket and hold it in place using a clean piece of gauze or cloth. If the tooth cannot be reinserted, carry it in a cup containing milk or water. Because time is essential, call us immediately.
Possible Broken Jaw
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In the event of jaw injury, apply a cold compress and tie the mouth closed with a towel, tie or handkerchief. Go to the emergency room immediately. In many cases, a broken jaw is the result of a blow to the head and can be dangerous or life threatening.
Bleeding After a Baby Tooth Falls Out
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Fold a piece of gauze and place it (tightly) over the bleeding area. Bite down on the gauze for 15 minutes; if bleeding continues, call us.
Cold or Canker Sores
Over-the-counter medications will usually provide temporary relief. If sores persist, visit your dentist.
Preventing Injury
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You can help your child avoid dental emergencies. Child-proof your house to avoid falls. Don't let your child chew on ice, popcorn kernels, or other hard foods. Always use car seats for young children and require seatbelts for older children. And if your child plays contact sports, have him wear a mouthguard. Ask us about creating a custom-fitted mouthguard for your child. Finally, prevent toothaches with regular brushing, flossing, and visits to our office.
Never hesitate to call us with a Dental Emergency after office hours!