Create a dental emergency kit
Dental emergencies happen. While you’re traveling. During exercise. At home or work.
If an emergency does happen, it’s important to find a dentist right away. If that’s not possible, a well-stocked dental emergency kit can help you deal with pain, bleeding and other problems until you can see a dental professional.
Everything you need for your kit can be purchased at your local pharmacy or grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Cotton swabs | Use to clean the area or as applicators |
| Cotton balls | Use to help control bleeding |
| Dental floss | Use to dislodge food particles stuck between teeth |
| Dental mirror | Use to view inside of mouth |
| Latex gloves | Wear to assist someone other than yourself (use vinyl gloves if allergic to latex) |
| Dental wax | Use to coat sharp edges of braces wires or other orthodontia |
| Salt | Combine with water to rinse out mouth if cheek, gums or tongue are injured (also can use a pinch in water to transport a knocked-out tooth to the dentist |
| Cold compress | Use to reduce swelling |
Arrange everything in an airtight container and keep in a handy place where you can quickly get to it if you need to.
For details about TRICARE Dental Program (TDP) benefits, go here.
