Kids will be kids, and dental emergencies can happen. To minimize long-term damage, pain, or unsightly results, it’s crucial to know what to do when your child experiences a common oral problem. Here’s what to do in these situations:

Severe toothache:
Check for food stuck between the teeth and try to dislodge it with floss. Clean the affected tooth and rinse the mouth with warm water. Swollen gums may indicate an infection, which requires a dental visit. Use cold compresses to relieve facial swelling, but if the pain is severe, take your child to the dentist or emergency room. You can give over-the-counter pain relievers, but avoid applying the medication directly on the gum or tooth.

Chipped tooth:
If your child chips a tooth, contact your dentist immediately. Acting quickly can help save the tooth, prevent infection, and reduce the need for extensive procedures. Have your child rinse with cold water, and if you find the chipped piece, bring it to the dentist in case it can be bonded back.

Knocked-out tooth:
First, locate the missing tooth. Hold it by the crown (not the root) and rinse it gently. Try replacing the tooth back in the socket and have your child bite on a piece of gauze or cloth to hold it in place until you get to the dentist. If re-insertion isn’t possible, place the tooth in cold milk to take with you. Time is critical in saving a displaced tooth, so visit the dentist immediately.

Cut lip, tongue, or cheek:
Check if your child’s teeth are undamaged, and apply pressure to the bleeding area using a moist washcloth or teabag. If bleeding doesn’t stop after fifteen minutes, contact your child’s dentist or go to the emergency room. For tongue injuries, it’s best to wait and see if the bleeding stops within fifteen minutes. If it doesn’t, seek medical attention.

Are dental issues holding you back? Take control of your oral health by booking an appointment with our experienced team at our Aventura dental office.