Dental emergencies can happen anytime, but knowing how to handle these situations can make a difference in your child’s oral health. Our pediatric dental services include emergency care to address urgent dental needs and protect your child’s smile. Getting pediatric emergency care is important when your child has an injury or pain involving their teeth, gums, or mouth. Dr. Moncy Mathew provides pediatric dental care and treats emergencies for kids in a caring, compassionate environment.
Common Pediatric Dental Emergencies
Dental emergencies in children can range from a simple toothache to a more serious injury, like a broken tooth. Below are some of the most common dental emergencies parents may encounter.
Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out tooth is a common emergency, especially for active children involved in sports or outdoor play. You should quickly see a dentist if your child’s tooth gets knocked out. If you can find it and it’s a permanent tooth, immediately place it in a cup of milk or your child’s saliva. This will keep it alive so the dentist may be able to reattach it. Time is critical when dealing with a knocked-out tooth, so get to the dentist as soon as possible.
Chipped or Broken Tooth
Accidents can happen, and your child may end up with a chipped or broken tooth at some point. If the break is small, it might not need extensive treatment. However, if the break is large, the tooth can be exposed to infection or further damage. Call Dr. Mathew immediately. In the meantime, rinse your child’s mouth with warm water to clean the area and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
Toothache
Toothaches in children are often because of cavities, infections, or gum irritation. If your child has a toothache, try rinsing their mouth with warm salt water to help ease the pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen, can also help manage the pain until you can see a dentist. The tooth might need a root canal, filling, or even extraction if the damage is severe.
Object Stuck Between Teeth
Kids sometimes get food or small objects stuck between their teeth. If this happens, use dental floss to gently remove the object. Avoid using sharp tools because you can accidentally injure your child’s gums or teeth. If the object won’t come out or causes pain, contact Dr. Mathew for help.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Injuries to the lips, gums, or cheeks are common during childhood. If your child injures their soft tissue, rinse the area with clean water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Call Dr. Mathew immediately if the bleeding doesn’t stop after 10 minutes of pressure, or if the injury seems severe.
How to Prevent Pediatric Dental Emergencies
While dental emergencies are sometimes unavoidable, you can take several steps to reduce the risk of your child experiencing a dental injury or issue. For example:
- Use Mouthguards for Sports: A custom mouthguard can be a lifesaver if your child participates in contact sports like football, basketball, or soccer. Mouthguards help protect teeth from injury and reduce the risk of a knocked-out or broken tooth. Custom-made mouthguards fit best in your child’s mouth and provide the best protection.
- Teach Good Oral Hygiene: Regular brushing and flossing prevents cavities and toothaches. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing once daily help remove plaque and food particles that can cause tooth decay. Encourage your child to visit the dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
- Encourage Healthy Eating Habits: Limiting sugary snacks and drinks also prevents tooth decay. Sugary foods and drinks feed bacteria in the mouth, cause cavities and toothaches. Encourage your child to eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and dairy products to support healthy teeth.
- Be Careful with Hard or Sticky Foods: Sticky candies, hard candies, and ice can damage your child’s teeth. Teach your child to avoid chewing on hard objects or biting into sticky foods too much, which can pull out fillings or crack teeth.
- Regular Dental Visits: Regular dental check-ups can also prevent dental emergencies. Our dental care team can detect early signs of tooth decay, alignment issues, or other problems. Dr. Mathew will also provide advice on proper oral care and help spot potential issues before they cause pain or damage.
When to Get Pediatric Emergency Dental Care
If your child has any of the following, contact us immediately:
- Severe pain that doesn’t go away with over-the-counter pain relievers
- Excessive bleeding that doesn’t stop after 10 minutes of pressure
- A tooth that has been knocked out but can’t be placed back into the socket
It’s important to stay calm and act quickly in these situations. The sooner you get your child to the dentist, the better the chances of saving a tooth or preventing further damage. Contact Summit Pediatric Dentistry at 816-375-4539 or request an appointment online.