Emergency Injuries  

Accidents happen, and knowing what to do when one occurs can mean the difference between saving and losing a tooth.

Here are some tips for common dental emergencies:
  • For a knocked-out permanent or adult tooth, keep it moist at all times. If you can, try placing the tooth back in the socket without touching the root. If that’s not possible, place it in between your cheek and gums, in milk, or use a tooth preservation product that has the ADA Seal of Acceptance. Then, get to your dentist’s office right away. These types of injuries are best treated in the first 60 minutes. Since Dr. Herber is the team dentist for the Fort Wayne Komets, he is well versed in the treatment of traumatic injuries. 
  • For a cracked tooth, immediately rinse the mouth with warm water to clean the area. Put cold compresses on the face to keep any swelling down. 
  • If you bite your tongue or lip, clean the area gently with water and apply a cold compress. 
  • For toothaches, rinse the mouth with warm water to clean it out. Gently use dental floss to remove any food caught between the teeth. Do not put aspirin on the aching tooth or gum tissues. 
  • For objects stuck in the mouth, try to gently remove with floss but do not try to remove it with sharp or pointed instruments.