Kids are naturally curious and energetic, sometimes getting them into situations that can become dental emergencies. From a knocked-out tooth due to a fall or sudden severe tooth pain to Boynton Beach dental implants, being prepared and knowing what to do could make the difference in saving your child’s oral health. In this post, we will learn about some of the most common pediatric dental emergencies and provide tips for responses.
Common dental emergencies include:
1. Avulsed tooth
Permanent Tooth: The first thing you need to do is find the tooth without touching its root — GENTLY pick it up by the crown, which is the top part of a tooth that we use as a “chewing surface”. If the tooth is dirty, rinse it gently with milk or saline solution
Baby Tooth: Never try to put it back, which may damage the developing permanent tooth. Then apply pressure to control any bleeding with a clean cloth, and contact your child’s dentist.
2. Chipped or Broken Tooth
Rinse your child’s mouth with warm water to clean the site, and use an ice pack to reduce swelling. Keep any broken piece of the tooth and show it to your dentist as well if you are able. If unattended a cracked tooth can lead to serious consequences in the long run so even if it is just some sort of minor damage you would still need to have your teeth checked by a professional dentist.
3. Toothache
Toothache can be a result of cavities, tooth decay, or infection. If your kid suddenly complains of toothache, start by rinsing their mouth with warm water and gently floss to eliminate any particles that are causing pain.
4. Loose Tooth
This is fairly common for younger children who are losing teeth that nature intended them to shed. But when it comes to a loose tooth that occurs because of trauma or an injury, this is the type of thing you should see your dentist for. If it is a permanent tooth, the dentist may need to stabilize the affected tooth so that there won’t be any further damage.
5. Broken Braces or Wires
Braces and broken braces or long wires can irritate your child’s mouth. If a wire is irritating, push it back using the eraser end of a pencil. If this is not possible, use orthodontic wax or a small piece of gauze or cotton to protect the wire. Handle any big issues like broken braces with your orthodontist so that you do not delay treatment.
6. Dental Abscess
A dental abscess is a severe infection in or around the root of your tooth, which results in intense and continuous pain. This is often associated with intense pain, swelling in the respective area, and fever as well as a bad taste in the mouth. If you think your child has a dental abscess they should receive emergency treatment immediately. It is important to treat it as soon as possible, in order not to have the infection spread elsewhere.
7. Sharp pain or bleeding after bitten tongue, lip, cheek
To minimize swelling, wash the area where your kid has a cut or bite on their tongue, lip, or cheek with water and use a cool compress. See your dentist or the emergency department for further care if, even after applying light pressure for ten to fifteen minutes, the bleeding doesn’t stop or if the incision is significant.
Pediatric dental emergencies can be terrifying but being educated and prepared can mean the world in making sure your child gets ample care. When your child runs into a dental emergency, you should not waste time in getting to his regular dentist or pediatrician if possible. Respond quickly and calmly to maintain healthy oral health for years to come!
