Children are active and fearless, and that means falls, accidents, and injuries are a part of growing up. And, of course, this often includes dental emergencies, too. For parents, it can be scary to see your child in pain, especially when you notice damage to their teeth. Knowing what to do when this happens can make all the difference.
Below are six of the most common dental emergencies in children and how we recommend handling them.
1. A Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out tooth can occur during activity, like sports or falls. And when it does, the first thing you need to figure out is whether or not it is a baby tooth or a permanent tooth. Your answer will determine your next step.
When a baby tooth is knocked out, there is no need to save the tooth, as it is not usually reinserted and saved. Nonetheless, we will still want to see your little one to assess the area and ensure there is no damage to surrounding teeth or the jaw.
For a permanent tooth, time is of the essence. Call us immediately. You will want to find the avulsed tooth and gently rinse it off before placing it back into the socket. Not an option? Keep it moist in milk or in saliva as a backup until you get to our office. You don’t have much time to save a natural tooth, so move with urgency.
2. A Chipped or Broken Tooth
Another common dental emergency in kids is a chipped or fractured tooth. Parents, have your child rinse their mouth with warm water to clear out any debris, small pieces, or blood. And use a cold compress to reduce any swelling.
Always give us a call when this happens. If the fracture is near the gumline or the inner pulp is exposed, immediate attention is required. However, small chips will need to be evaluated, but may not require an emergency visit.
3. Severe Toothache
Toothaches arise for many different reasons, such as cavities, infection, or abscess. Sometimes kids complain of pain, and it could just be a piece of food stuck between the teeth or beneath the gums. Regardless, a persistent or severe toothache should never be dismissed.
Have your child rinse with warm salt water. Do a quick check to see if any debris is stuck between the teeth or if you notice anything of concern. Then give us a call, and we will guide you on what to do next.
4. Dental Abscess
As mentioned, a dental abscess can cause severe pain, but not always. It is a serious infection that forms near the root of a tooth or in the gums. Signs that one is present include swelling, fever, bad breath, or bad taste in the mouth.
Never ignore an abscess. Call our office right away. If left alone, the infection can spread throughout the mouth and even throughout the body.
5. Loose Tooth
If a permanent tooth becomes loose due to trauma or an accident, then we suggest contacting us as soon as possible. We may be able to stabilize it and allow it to heal properly. Saving the natural tooth is always the goal.
For baby teeth, a loose tooth isn’t always urgent. If it didn’t occur naturally, but rather due to an accident or injury, it’s always good to have the area evaluated.
6. Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries include those involving the lips, gums, or tongue. A cut in one of these areas will usually result in a lot of blood, which can be alarming. Here’s what you are going to do. To get the bleeding under control, apply gentle pressure with clean gauze, paper towel, or even a soft, clean rag. Then, use a cold compress to keep swelling at bay.
If the bleeding does not stop within 10 to 15 minutes or the injury appears deep, always reach out to us. We can assess what the next steps should be.
Remember, dental emergencies are going to happen when you least expect them, so always be prepared to act fast.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will I know if my child’s dental issue is an emergency?
If your child is experiencing severe pain, a knocked-out or broken tooth, uncontrollable bleeding, or the like, it is likely a dental emergency. Contact our office, and we can help you determine the next best step.
Should I take my child to the ER for a dental emergency?
For most dental issues, you should contact your pediatric dentist first. If your child has severe facial trauma, is having trouble bleeding, or has a fever with swelling of the face, neck, or jaw, seek medical care immediately.
The gentle experts at Orange County Pediatric Dentistry understand that dental emergencies can happen at any time. We have a compassionate team that is committed to assessing each situation and providing prompt care to those who need it. With a comprehensive list of treatments, we are capable of handling anything that comes our way. We are here to protect your child’s smile. Contact us today!