Simple toothaches can often be relieved by rinsing the mouth to clear it of
debris and other matter. Sometimes, a toothache can be caused or aggravated by a
piece of debris lodged between the tooth and another tooth. Avoid placing an
aspirin between your tooth and gum to relieve pain, because the dissolving
aspirin can actually harm your gum tissue.
Broken, Fractured, or Displaced Tooth
A broken, fractured or displaced tooth is usually not a cause for alarm, as long
as decisive, quick action is taken.
If the tooth has been knocked out, try to place the tooth back in its socket
while waiting to see your dentist.
First, rinse the mouth of any blood or other debris and place a cold cloth or
compress on the check near the injury. This will keep down swelling.
If you cannot locate the tooth back in its socket, hold the dislocated tooth by
the crown - not the root. Next, place it in a container of warm milk, saline or
the victim's own saliva and keep it in the solution until you arrive at the
emergency room or dentist's office.
For a fractured tooth, it is best to rinse with warm water and again, apply a
cold pack or compress. Ibuprofen may be used to help keep down swelling.
If the tooth fracture is minor, the tooth can be sanded or if necessary, restored
by the dentist if the pulp is not severely damaged.
If a child's primary tooth has been loosened by an injury or an emerging
permanent tooth, try getting the child to gently bite down on an apple or piece
of caramel; in some cases, the tooth will easily separate from the gum.