Emergencies - Jaw Problems

Jaw Injury

1. If teeth fit together properly when the mouth is closed:
   • Apply ice to control swelling and take ibuprofen or similar remedy to control pain
   • Restrict diet to soft foods and if no improvement occurs within 24 hours, contact your dentist
2. If teeth do NO fit together properly when the mouth is closed:
   • Immediately seek emergency care
   • Gently align the jaws
   • Immobilize the jaw by wrapping a cloth bandage under the chin and securing it over the head
   • Apply ice
   • Do NOT blow nose

Injury to the Soft Tissues (Gums, Cheek, Tongue) of Mouth

1. Gently rinse mouth with cold water.
2. Apply pressure to wound with clean cloth, gauze or tissue.
3. If bleeding persists, contact your dentist or visit a medical emergency room.