Pediatric dental emergencies can be a frightening experience for everyone—parents and children. A dental accident or problem can occur anytime, and knowing how to handle it can make all the difference in saving your child’s tooth and preventing further complications.
Dr. Amanda and her team at Sprout Pediatric Dentistry have seen their fair share of dental emergencies, so we put this post together to discuss these stressful situations, what to do, etc.
Knocked-Out Tooth
If your child’s tooth has been knocked out, it is crucial to act quickly. Hold the tooth by the crown, not the root, and rinse it with cold water. Try to reposition the tooth back into the socket, but do not force it. If the tooth cannot be reinserted, place it in a container with milk or saliva and bring it to the dentist. Time is critical in this situation, and the longer you wait to seek treatment, the less likely the tooth will be saved.
Chipped or Fractured Tooth
If your child has chipped or fractured a tooth, rinse their mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to the affected area to reduce swelling. If the tooth is only chipped, it may not require immediate attention, but you should still have it looked at by Dr. Amanda ASAP to prevent further damage.
Toothache
Toothaches in children can be caused by various factors, including cavities, food particles trapped between teeth, or gum disease. If your child complains of a toothache, rinse their mouth with warm salt water and floss gently to remove any food particles. If the pain persists, contact Sprout Pediatric Dentistry to schedule an appointment!
Abscessed Tooth
An abscessed tooth is a severe dental emergency that requires immediate attention. It is a bacterial infection that forms inside the tooth or gum and can cause extreme pain and swelling. If your child complains of a severe toothache, has a fever, or has swollen gums, contact a dentist or go to an emergency room immediately! The infection must be treated, as it can cause severe damage to the rest of the mouth and even lead to life-threatening problems like sepsis.
Tongue or Lip Injury
If your child has bitten their tongue or lip, clean the area with a damp cloth and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. If the bleeding persists, contact Dr. Amanda or seek medical attention.
Foreign Object Stuck in Teeth
If your child has a foreign object stuck between their teeth, try to remove it with dental floss. Do not use sharp objects to try to remove the object, as this can cause further damage to the teeth or gums. Contact Sprout Pediatric Dentistry for further assistance if the object cannot be removed.
In any dental emergency, remaining calm and acting fast is essential. If your child is in severe pain, has a high fever, or has experienced trauma to the head or neck, seek medical attention immediately by dialing 9-1-1 or going to the nearest emergency medical facility!
Remember to stay prepared by keeping your dentist’s phone number and a small dental first aid kit handy. The dental first aid kit should include dental floss, gauze, pain relievers, and a clean, small container with a lid for a knocked-out tooth.
Pediatric dental emergencies can be stressful for parents and children alike, but knowing how to handle them can make all the difference. With the proper preparation and knowledge, you can ensure your child receives the best care possible in a dental emergency. Remember to act quickly and seek professional help as soon as possible.
Dr. Amanda and Sprout Pediatric Dentistry are here to help with your pediatric dental needs, emergency, and beyond!
