Toothache - Access to Emergency Care
Toothache
- Use dental floss to remove any food trapped in or around the suspected tooth.
- Rinse the mouth vigorously with warm water to wash away debris
- If swelling is present, apply a cold compress to the outside of the cheek (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off). DO NOT USE HEAT.
- Aspirin or an aspirin substitute* may be given orally to relieve pain (dosage according to weight or age). Aspirin placed directly on or near the aching tooth will cause a chemical burn to the tissue.
- Oil of cloves (eugenol) may be applied with a Q-tip or swab onto affected tooth or teeth.
If a child has a toothache or other apparent dental emergency, the child's parents/caregivers should be contacted. If the child has a private dentist of record, he or she should be referred to that dentist as soon as possible.
Access to emergency care
If a child does not have a private dentist of record, the area dental society whether it be local or regional can be contacted for the names of those dentists in the area who are willing to accept emergency patients. These names can be given to the family. Protocol should be pre-arranged for such emergencies with everyone involved being informed of the routine.
Other resources: A dental school/university, hospitals with dental emergency facilities, public school dental clinics, local health departments with dental facilities and other community dental clinics.
Emergency funds are sometimes made available to handle those persons who cannot otherwise afford care. Check with school administration for creative financing, i.e., interest on investment accounts, area philanthropic or service organization may accept proposal for emergency funds for this purpose.
Medicaid does provide funding for eligible persons. However, not all dentists accept Medicaid patients.
*See medications note under Dental First Aid Supplies
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