Dental Emergencies
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What should I do if my childīs baby tooth is knocked out?
A: Contact us as soon as possible.
Q: What should I do if my childīs permanent tooth is knocked
out?
A: Find the tooth and rinse it gently in cool water. (Do
not scrub it or clean it with soap -- use just water!) If possible,
replace the tooth in the socket and hold it there with clean gauze
or a wash cloth. If you canīt put the tooth back in the socket, place
the tooth in a clean container with milk, saliva, or water. Get to
the pediatric dental office immediately. (Call the emergency number
if itīs after hours.) The faster you act, the better your chances
of saving the tooth.
Q: What if a tooth is chipped or fractured?
A: Contact us immediately. Quick action can save the tooth,
prevent infection and reduce the need for extensive dental treatment.
Rinse the mouth with water and apply cold compresses to reduce swelling.
If you can find the broken tooth fragment, bring it with you to the
dentist.
Q: What about a severe blow to the head or jaw fracture?
A: Go immediately to the emergency room of your local hospital. A blow to the head can be life threatening.
Q: What if my child has a toothache?
A: Call your pediatric dentist and visit the office promptly.
To comfort your child, rinse the mouth with water. Apply a cold compress
or ice wrapped in a cloth. Do not put heat or aspirin on the sore
area.
Q: Can dental injuries be prevented?
A: Absolutely! First, reduce oral injury in sports by wearing
mouth guards. Second, always use a car seat for young children. Require
seat belts for everyone else in the car. Third, child-proof your home
to prevent falls, electrical injuries, and choking on small objects.
Fourth, protect your child from unnecessary toothaches with regular
dental visits and preventive care.
