TOOTH INJURY

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR FOR TOOTH INJURY

Call 911 Now (you may need an ambulance) If

• Knocked out (unconscious)
• Major bleeding that can't be stopped

Call Your Dentist Now (night or day) If:

• You think you have a serious injury
• Knocked-out tooth (see First Aid and Transport information)
• Tooth is almost falling out
• Tooth is greatly pushed out of its normal position
• Tooth that's pushed out of its normal position interferes with normal bite
• Chipped tooth is missing a large piece, or a red dot is visible inside the chipped area
• Bleeding won't stop after 10 minutes of direct pressure
• Severe pain

Call Your Dentist Within 24 Hours (between 9 am and 4 pm) If:

• You think you need to be seen
• Tooth is slightly pushed out of its normal position
• Can see a chip or fracture line in the tooth
• Tooth sensitive to cold fluids  
• Tooth feels very loose when you try to move it

Call Your Dentist During Weekday Office Hours If:

• You have other questions or concerns

Self Care at Home If

• Minor tooth injury and you don't think you need to be seen

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Adult SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 David Thompson, M.D. FACEP

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 7/2004

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