PEDIATRIC DENTAL EMERGENCY CAPTION:

Pediatric dental emergencies often require immediate attention to prevent long-term damage and to alleviate pain or discomfort for the child. Here are three examples of situations should promptly bring your children in to our dental office:

1. Tooth Knocked Out (Avulsed Tooth): If a child’s permanent tooth is knocked out, it’s crucial to seek immediate dental care. Handling the tooth properly by not touching the root, and getting to a dentist as quickly as possible can increase the chances of successfully reimplanting the tooth.

2. Severe Toothache or Dental Abscess: A toothache can be a sign of various problems, such as cavities, infection, or abscess. A dental abscess is particularly serious as it can lead to infection that may spread to other parts of the body if not treated promptly. Symptoms may include severe, persistent toothache, sensitivity to hot and cold, swelling in the face or cheek, and fever.

3. Broken, Chipped, or Fractured Tooth: If your child breaks, chips, or fractures a tooth, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible to assess the extent of the damage and to prevent further problems, such as infection or damage to the tooth’s nerve. Rinse the child’s mouth with water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. If you can find the broken tooth fragment, bring it with you to the dentist.

In all cases, it’s important to act quickly and calmly, providing the child with comfort and reassurance. Contacting our dental office immediately for advice and to arrange an urgent visit can help minimize the damage and ensure the best possible outcome for the child’s dental health.