- If a tooth is knocked out, hold the tooth by the crown and rinse the root in water if it's dirty. Do NOT scrub it or remove any attached tissue fragments. If you can, gently place the tooth back in its socket or store it in a cup of milk and go to a dentist with the tooth immediately.

- If you break a tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water to keep the area clean and apply cold compresses on your face to reduce swelling. Go to a dentist immediately.

- Treat a bitten tongue or lip by cleaning gently with a cloth and applying cold compresses to reduce swelling. If bleeding continues heavily after a short time, go to a dentist or an emergency clinic immediately.

- A jaw injury or possible fracture needs immediate treatment at your dentist's office or an emergency clinic. Apply cold compresses on the way to reduce swelling.

- If a loose or broken wire from your braces is irritating your mouth, cover the wire end with a small cotton ball, and go to your dentist as soon as possible. If a wire gets stuck in the cheek, tongue or gum tissue, don't try to pull it out yourself. See your dentist immediately.

To prevent sports related teeth and jaw injuries, we can make a custom-fit mouthguard that will cover all your teeth and cushion falls and blows to the chin, so that you always stay safe while playing.

We hope you and your family have a happy and safe spring. Just don't forget that regular dental care is a life-long occupation.