Emergency Pediatric Dentistry: Common Kids Dental Emergencies

An emergency pediatric dentist is trained to treat childhood dental injuries. Childhood dental emergencies are stressful for parents, but being prepared can help put them at ease. Here is a look at some of the most frequent childhood dental emergencies and what parents should do while they are waiting to see an emergency pediatric dentist.

Knocked out tooth

Also known as an avulsed tooth, a knocked-out tooth is a common childhood dental emergency. If the tooth is a baby tooth, then there is a chance that the pediatric dentist may not replace it. Instead, the pediatric dentist will need to check the area for damage and may give the child a space maintainer if necessary. Parents should have their child rinse their mouth out with water and bite down on a clean washcloth or piece of gauze soaked in cold water to help stop bleeding and control swelling.

If a permanent tooth is knocked out, parents should find the knocked-out tooth and follow the instructions above. If you find it, do not touch the root, but hold it by the crown and rinse it with milk. If the child is old enough, place the tooth back in its socket. For younger children, store the lost tooth in milk and get to the emergency pediatric dentist as soon as possible.

Toothache

Tooth pain can result from several causes such as fractures and tooth decay, but often it is not immediately clear. However, parents will want to get their child to an emergency pediatric dentist as soon as possible so they can get properly assessed and treated.

While waiting to see the dentist, we recommend parents clean the affected area with salt water and give the child the appropriate over-the-counter pain medication for the child’s size and age. It is okay to apply a cold compress to the affected area, but do not apply heat or aspirin to the area.

Chipped or broken teeth

Depending on the severity of the chip, crack, or break, prompt treatment is needed to prevent futher damage, gum or cheek irritation, or infection. An emergency pediatric dentist may need to use dental X-rays to investigate the extent of the damage. Some breaks may not need immediate treatment; however, it is always wise to err on the side of caution and get it checked out.

Suggestions for handling a chipped or broken tooth are similar to how a parent would handle a knocked-out tooth. Parents should have the child wash their mouth with salt water and apply a cold compress on the affected area. If possible, please collect any broken pieces of the tooth and bring them to the dentist.