Temporary Splint

1. Apply periodontal paste, which consists of a base and a catalyst that, when mixed together, form a moderately sticky clay-like dressing that becomes firm after application. The splint performs best if applied to the facial and oral surfaces of the teeth; however, it is usually sufficient to apply it only to the facial surface of the affected teeth. This periodontal dressing is most easily applied when the physician’s gloves are moistened with water or lubricating jelly and the gingiva and enamel are completely dry. It is important to apply the dressing into the grooves between the teeth as well as to the adjacent teeth, and the patient should be reminded to eat a soft diet until seen for follow-up in 24 hours.
2. Self-cure composite is another splinting option in the emergency department. Self-cure composite requires neither etching nor light curing and is easy to use. It is applied only to the enamel of the involved tooth, not the gingiva, and to the adjacent nonmobile teeth. Both periodontal paste and self-cure composites are easy to remove during formal restoration by the dentist.
3. A silk 2–0 dental suture can be placed from the palatal soft tissue to the vestibular soft tissue, incorporating the involved tooth. The stitches are criss-crossed over the tooth, and a locking horizontal mattress suture is employed to keep the tooth in place. 
4. Parents can be instructed to purchase a boil-and-bite athletic mouth guard and to have the child wear this until he or she sees the dentist (hopefully, the next day).