Emergencies & Prevention
Dental emergencies are often unexpected. If your child is experiencing a dental emergency, call our office right away. We will work to fit you into our schedule as soon as possible. Our team will assess your child’s smile, help relieve pain and recommend the best possible treatment.
Knocked-Out, Chipped or Fractured Tooth
If your child has a lost or injured tooth, it’s important to have them seen as soon as possible in order to save the tooth. Carefully handle the tooth that has fallen out, only picking it up by the crown (never the roots). You can rinse the tooth under cold water, but do not scrub or use cleaner on the tooth.
If the entire tooth has fallen out, you can place the tooth back in position and have your child bite on a towel or clean cloth to hold the tooth in place. If this isn’t possible, carefully place the tooth in a container with a mixture of milk and your child’s saliva. Bring the tooth to your child’s dentist as the tooth may be able to be saved. When a tooth falls out, it’s important to have your child seen as soon as possible. If caught in time, your child’s dentist may be able to save the tooth.
Toothache
If your child is complaining of a toothache, examine the area around the pain. Check for food lodged around the tooth that hurts. Check for an emerging tooth that could be causing discomfort. Also check for any signs of cavities, decay or injury.
The best thing to do when your child has tooth pain is to schedule a dental visit. Left untreated, toothaches can turn into serious dental problems. If your child is experiencing swelling, apply a cold compress. Swelling can be a sign of infection, an abscessed tooth or other serious dental concern.
While you are waiting to be seen, here are some tips to ease your child’s discomfort:
- Gently rinse your child’s mouth with warm salt water.
- Carefully floss around the tooth that is in pain to remove any food that could be causing the pain.
- Place a cold compress on the outside of your child’s mouth to reduce swelling.
- Administer the recommended dosage of Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) to treat the pain. Do not place aspirin directly on the injury or area of pain.
- Keep your child’s dental appointment even if the pain lightens or goes away. A toothache can be a sign of a dental issue and can come back stronger if left untreated.
Jaw Fracture
Call 9-1-1 right away! If you are able to safely move your child, bring them to the emergency room as soon as possible. A jaw fracture can cause severe pain and damage if not treated right away.
How Can I Prevent Dental Injuries?
The following tips can help keep your child safe from dental injuries:
- If your child is involved in sports, have them wear a mouthguard. A sports mouthguard that fits your child’s smile is one of the best ways you can keep them safe while they stay active! Call our office for more information on the best mouthguards for your sports.
- Make sure your child has the proper car seat for their age, and that all other children wear seatbelts when driving.
- Do your best to childproof your home in order to prevent injuries.
- Schedule dental check-ups every 6 months so that your child can receive regular cleanings, dental care and preventative maintenance.
Our team is passionate about keeping kids safe! If your child is experiencing a dental emergency in Fort Mill, SC, give us a call!
