If the denture is cracked and does not fit well, use denture adhesive until you can get help. If traveling, it is always wise to carry an extra denture in case of emergency (make sure to store in a moist atmosphere).

Rinse gently with warm water to remove debris. Avoid anything very hot or cold. Do NOT eat sticky or chewy foods. If sensitive or if the tooth is irritating your tongue, cover the tooth with sugarless gum. Applying a piece of cotton saturated in oil of cloves (from pharmacy) may help reduce sensitivity in the tooth. If swollen, apply ice packs. See a dentist as soon as possible.

Use a scarf or towel to immobilize your jaw and apply ice packs (very gently) to control any swelling. Seek professional help immediately- preferably an oral surgeon. Otherwise, seek help at a hospital emergency room.

In the area that is bleeding, apply pressure with a clean, cold (crushed ice in towel) cloth. Go to the hospital emergency room if the bleeding does not stop. For safety's sake, see a dentist as quickly as possible.

DO NOT brush or scrub the tooth. Simply rinse it gently under running water. DO NOT touch root. Re-implant tooth into socket completely and immediately with slight pressure. If this is not possible, keep the tooth moist by holding in your cheek or placing in a cup of milk. See a dentist immediately.

Try to replace crown using denture adhesive as a temporary cement. Otherwise cover the prepared tooth with sugarless gum or paraffin wax. DO NOT use any type of glue to replace the crown.

If tissue in mouth is being irritated by a wire tip or bracket cover with cotton ball, piece of gauze, or paraffin wax until you can see a dentist. See your dentist immediately if it is apparent that the wire is piercing the cheek or lip. If an appliance has come loose or is broken, bring pieces with you.

Swelling for no apparent reason with teeth sore to the touch:

You are more than likely dealing with an infection. Get to the dentist quickly - or seek help from hospital emergency services.

If swollen, apply ice packs (crushed ice in a clean towel) to the area. Do NOT apply heat and DO NOT place aspirin products on the tooth or gums.

• Rinse with lukewarm water to remove debris. Use floss (gently) to clean areas between the teeth and to dislodge foreign material.
• You might also try this: Hold a piece of ice on the web of skin between the index finger and thumb on the same side of the body as the pain. It is not known why this technique is effective in reducing pain, but it seems to be.

Rinse vigorously with lukewarm water. Try to remove wedged object gently using dental floss. See a dentist if you are not successful.