Dental Emergencies
If your child is experiencing an emergency or are in imminent danger, you should always consider calling 911.
Given that children are often prone to injuries or other circumstances, we have provided some tips for dealing with urgent dental situations.
Bitten Lip/Tongue
Sometimes, children bite their lip or tongue severely enough to cause bleeding. If this happens, gently clean the wound with water. Use a cold compress to help alleviate swelling. If you have questions, you can always call us to determine if additional treatment may be necessary.
Object Stuck In Teeth
When your child accidentally gets an object stuck in their teeth, you can use dental floss to attempt to gently remove it. Metal, plastic, or sharp tools should not be used. If you are unable to remove the item with dental floss, give us a call.
Broken/Fractured Teeth
If a tooth is broken or fractured, have your child rinse their mouth with warm water and then use a cold compress to help alleviate swelling. If possible, find and save any tooth fragment(s) that broke off. Please call the office immediately.
Knocked Out Tooth
When a child’s tooth gets knocked out, try find the tooth and rinse it with water – no soap. Take care to only touch the crown of the tooth avoiding the roots. Place the tooth in a clean container with milk. Call us immediately and/or head to the hospital. If you act quickly it’s possible to save the tooth.
Loose Tooth
If your child has a very loose tooth, it should be removed to avoid being swallowed or inhaled.
Toothache
If your child complains of a toothache, rinse his mouth with warm water and inspect his teeth to be sure there is nothing caught between them. If pain continues, use a cold compress to ease the pain. Do not apply heat or any kind of aspirin or topical pain reliever directly to the affected area, as this can cause damage to the gums. Children’s pain relievers may be taken orally. Schedule an appointment immediately.
Broken Jaw
If you know or suspect your child has sustained a broken jaw, use a cold compress to reduce swelling. Call our emergency number and/or head to the hospital immediately. In many cases a broken jaw is the result of a blow to the head. Severe blows to the head can be dangerous and even life-threatening.
Avoiding Injury
You can help your child avoid dental emergencies. Child-proof your house to avoid falls. Don’t let your child chew on ice, popcorn kernels, or other hard foods. Always use car seats for young children and require seat belts for older children. And if your child plays contact sports, have him wear a mouthguard. Ask us about creating a custom-fitted mouthguard for your child. Finally, prevent toothaches with regular brushing, flossing, and visits to our office.