Dental emergencies occur often in young patients. Though they require urgent treatment, it is important to remain calm and take immediate action. Dental emergencies are any trauma or condition that requires immediate attention. Examples include:
- Fractured or broken tooth
- Knocked-out tooth
- Tooth displacement
- Injured jaw bone, cheek, lip or tongue
Did you know…
that more than 1 in 3 kids will experience a dental emergency during childhood or adolescence? Often, these dental emergencies are caused by injury to the teeth, gums or soft tissues of the mouth. Though a dental trauma can occur at any point during childhood, children are most susceptible to them during the curious toddler years and during the pre-teen and adolescent years, when kids begin to participate in more vigorous sports.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I prepare for a pediatric dental emergency?
Pediatric dental emergencies always happen when they are least expected. Preparation is essential for maximizing the outcome in an actual emergency. Start by storing the phone number of your child’s pediatric dentist in your phone for easy access. You can also take steps to prevent an emergency. For example, we recommend limiting your child’s exposure of hard foods and having a mouth guard custom-made for use when your child is participating in sports.
What should I do if my child has a dental emergency?
If your child has an injury or pain affecting the teeth or gums, contact a pediatric dentist immediately. Visit your local emergency room if your child has uncontrolled bleeding or has suffered a head trauma.
My child’s permanent tooth was knocked out. How should I proceed?
If your child’s tooth is completely dislodged from the gum and jaw, retrieve the tooth immediately, being careful not to touch the root. Rinse it gently in clean water and place it in a glass of milk. If you have an older child, place the tooth gently back into the socket. Get to an emergency dentist immediately, as time is a critical factor in saving a lost tooth.