As a parent, you understand how important it is for your child to develop good oral hygiene habits and visit the dentist regularly. Unfortunately, even when you do all the right things, accidents can still happen.
Kids are active and fearless—putting them at risk for all sorts of mishaps. Whether playing with friends, running on a playground, or engaging in sports, you may find yourself with a dental emergency on your hands. What do you do?
This guide explores the steps you need to take to remain calm and protect your child’s smile. Here’s how to manage a dental emergency.
What is a Dental Emergency?
Not all emergencies are created equal. They can involve different situations and different teeth—even the gums and jaw. Some may only feel like they need to be addressed soon, while others may require the immediate attention of the dentist. So, how do you tell?
Parents, if your kid is experiencing any of the following, it may be a dental emergency.
- A knocked-out tooth
- A chipped, cracked, or fractured tooth
- Severe tooth pain or swelling
- Injuries impacting the lips, tongue, or cheeks
- A lost filling, crown, or dental appliance
Of course, if you aren’t sure, it is always better to give us a call so that we may help you determine your next steps.
Managing Common Dental Emergencies
When pain or injury arises, the first thing you are going to want to do is remain calm. After all, handling an urgent dental matter at the moment can be scary—unless you have an idea of what you are doing. So, let’s talk about it.
A Knocked–Out Tooth
If your child has had a tooth knocked out, your next step will depend on whether it is a permanent or baby tooth.
For permanent teeth, time is of the essence. You will want to gently pick up the tooth by the crown, rinse it with water (if needed), and place it back into the socket. If this isn’t possible, store the tooth in a container of milk or saliva. Next, contact our office right away. Swift action increases the chance of saving the real tooth.
A knocked-out baby tooth? These teeth aren’t going to be saved, so there is no need to try to reinsert them in the socket or store them. You will, however, want your child to have an exam with the dentist to ensure no additional damage has occurred.
Broken or Chipped Tooth
After a tooth has been broken, it is a good idea to rinse gently with warm water and then apply a cold compress to minimize swelling. Contact the dentist to discuss the situation and determine if your child will need to be seen right away or at the next available appointment.
Look for any broken pieces and set them aside until you see the dentist. All broken and chipped teeth should be examined at some point, regardless of severity.
Severe Toothache
Any time your child is complaining of persistent, severe tooth pain, something isn’t right. It could be a cavity, infection, injury, or even a piece of trapped food. Your first step should be to have your child rinse with warm water and then carefully floss around the tooth, removing any food that could have been lodged between the teeth or under the gum.
If there is no relief, call us so that we can help provide relief for your child’s discomfort.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Dental emergencies can happen without impacting the teeth. For instance, a bite to the lip, cheek, or tongue can lead to significant bleeding. If this happens, softly clean the area with water and apply pressure using a clean cloth. A cold compress can also be used in this situation to reduce swelling.
If the bleeding continues for more than 10 minutes, your child will need to seek emergency treatment.
Always Be Prepared
There is no way to know when a dental emergency will happen, but you can be prepared for it—just in case. Educating yourself on the steps to take and encouraging your child to wear a mouthguard while playing sports is a great place to start. And, of course, always have our number stored in your phone for easy access during these stressful moments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I take my child to the ER or the dentist for a dental emergency?
If your child has a dental injury without any life-threatening concerns, you will want to reach out to the dentist. However, excessive bleeding, difficulty breathing, significant swelling with fever, or jaw fractures warrant a trip to the closest emergency room immediately.
What if my child’s toothache goes away on its own?
Anytime your child has a painful toothache, you want to have it evaluated—even if the tooth pain subsides, as infection or damage can still appear. Getting the right treatment reduces the risk of complications.
At Attleboro Pediatric Dentistry, we are here for your child—whether for a routine visit or an urgent emergency. Contact us today for guidance when you need it most.