108 Where There Is No Dentist 2012
PART 2
some special problems
You will find some problems that are too serious for you to treat. If you can,
send the sick person to a more experienced dental worker as soon as possible.
Sometimes, however, it is better to start some of the treatment yourself.
Early treatment can prevent some problems from becoming more serious.
Also, if you know what to do when someone returns from the hospital, you
can help that person to get well faster.
Sometimes, you will find it impossible to get help. Therefore, we will discuss
each of these more serious problems in detail, so you can give as much help
as necessary.
BROKEN BONE
Three main bones form the face and lower jaw.
1. cheek bone
2. upper jaw bone
(lower jaw joins
the head here)
3. lower jaw bone
A bone can break completely, or part of it can crack. In either case, the teeth
are usually pushed out of position. Look for this as a sign of a broken bone.
SIGNS of a broken bone:
• The person has had an injury.
• When teeth are closed, some upper
teeth do not meet lower teeth.
• The person cannot open or
close the mouth properly.
• There is bleeding from between 2 teeth.
• There is swelling or a bruise on the face or jaw.
• There is bleeding into the eye.