Obtaining dental care within 30 minutes can make the difference between saving and losing a broken tooth.Practically all dental injuries will require some form of treatment by a dentist.
FIRST AID FOR A KNOCKED OUT TOOTH
Do not touch the root of the broken tooth. Handle the tooth by the crown only. Gently rinse the tooth off only if there is dirt covering it. Do not scrub or scrape the broken tooth.Attempt to replace the broken tooth into the socket with gentle pressure, and hold it in position. This is the best way to preserve the broken tooth
If unable to re-implant the broken tooth, place it in a protective transport solution. (In order of preference: Viaspan solution (available in chemists), Cold Milk, Saliva, Saline, Water)The broken tooth should not be wrapped in tissue or cloth.The broken tooth should NEVER be allowed to dry. Attend a dentist/hospital with your broken tooth as soon as possible.
FIRST AID FOR A DISPLACED/MOVED TOOTH
Rinse with cold water, and keep an ice pack over the lip and mouth to reduce swelling. A loose tooth should be held in place gently, easiest way to do this is by biting together.The Dentist may have to reposition the tooth, and splint it if necessary.
FIRST AID FOR A CHIPPED TOOTH
Place a cold wet cloth over the mouth, and attend a dentist as soon as possible. Cover any severe fracture with dental cement (available in chemists) until a dentist can treat the problem.If a large chip bring to dental clinic, it may be possible to reposition.
FIRST AID FOR A BROKEN BABY TOOTH (Child under age 7)
DO NOT re-implant or put back in socket.
DO NOT attempt to reposition, the main reason for this is so as not to damage the adult tooth that may be under the gum.
Place a cold wet cloth over the mouth, and bring the child to a dentist.
Prevention of dental injuries
Mouth guards are made of soft plastic adapted to fit comfortably to the shape of the upper teeth.
You can select from several options in mouth guards.
First, customized mouth guards are provided through your dentist. They are the most comfortable and most effective in preventing injuries. Your dentist can advise you on what type of mouth guard is best for your child.
Second, preformed or "boil-to-fit" mouth guards are found in sports shops. Different types and brands vary in terms of comfort, protection, and cost. These are not recommended once all the adult have erupted and are formed.
However,
Any mouth guard works better than no mouth guard. Dental injuries increase six fold to eightfold when mouth protection (gum sheild) is not used. Some simple measures will increase the chances that your broken tooth will be saved in the long term.Prompt treatment is essential for the long-term health of an the broken tooth.