Kids are full of energy, and that sense of adventure can sometimes lead to accidents. Whether it be a bump during play or a fall on the playground, dental injuries are pretty common among children. Knowing how to handle a dental emergency can make a big difference in minimizing pain and protecting your child’s smile. Here is a quick, convenient guide on how to manage the most common dental emergencies, from knocked-out teeth to toothaches.
Knocked-Out Baby Tooth
If your child loses a baby tooth due to an injury, the good news is that it is usually not an emergency. Baby teeth are designed to fall out naturally, so if one is knocked out early, it may not affect your child’s long-term dental health. However, you can certainly still contact our dental team for an evaluation to ensure there is no underlying injury to the gums or nearby teeth.
Knocked-Out Permanent Tooth
Conversely, when a permanent tooth is knocked out, it is important to act quickly. First, locate the tooth and hold it by the crown (the part that is usually visible in the mouth), avoiding the root. Rinse the tooth gently with water if it is dirty, but please do not scrub it. If possible, try to place the tooth back in the socket, encouraging your child to bite down gently on a clean cloth to hold it in place. If reinserting the tooth is not an option, place it in a glass of milk or saliva and head to the dentist immediately. Quick action can often save the tooth.
Chipped or Broken Tooth
A chipped or broken tooth can be alarming, but it is not always a dental emergency. Rinse your child’s mouth with warm water, and if there is bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth. Save any tooth fragments and bring them to our dentist, as we may be able to bond the pieces back to the tooth. Pain can usually be managed with a cold compress and over-the-counter pain relief.
Toothache
A toothache can signal anything from a minor cavity to a serious infection. Start by rinsing your child’s mouth with warm water and floss gently to remove any trapped food particles. Avoid placing aspirin on the sore area, as it can damage the gums. If the pain persists, contact our dental office for an evaluation.
Being prepared for dental emergencies can help protect your child’s smile and reduce anxiety during unexpected situations. And remember, regular checkups are key to maintaining healthy teeth and catching potential issues early!
Call Today
If your child experiences a dental emergency, please call our Sugarbug Dental team in Oxnard, CA. Please call (805) 985-2400 to learn more. Dr. Begian and associates are here to help at a convenient location near you!