Dental Emergencies: What Parents Need To Know

Dental emergencies can strike when you least expect them, turning a normal day into a stressful ordeal. Whether it's a knocked-out tooth during a sports game or sudden, severe pain in the middle of the night, being prepared can make all the difference. This guide will equip you with the knowledge you need to handle common dental emergencies.

What Counts as a Dental Emergency?

Not every dental issue requires immediate attention, but some situations demand quick action. Here are key scenarios to watch for:

1. Severe Tooth Pain: If your child complains of intense, persistent tooth pain, it could indicate an infection or deep decay.
2. Chipped or Fractured Tooth: A visibly damaged tooth, especially with sharp edges, needs prompt care.
3. Knocked-Out Tooth: This is a time-sensitive emergency. Particularly, if it is a permanent tooth, it requires immediate attention, within the hour.
4. Soft Tissue Injuries: Cuts or tears to the lips, cheeks, or tongue that won't stop bleeding.
5. Swelling: Facial swelling, especially if accompanied by fever, could signal a serious infection.

First Aid Tips for Common Dental Emergencies

Knowing how to provide initial care can significantly impact the outcome of a dental emergency:

For a Knocked-Out Permanent Tooth:

• Handle the tooth by the crown, not the root.
• Gently rinse off any debris
• Try to reinsert it into the socket or store it in milk or saliva (avoid storing in water if possible).
• Get immediate dental care – time is critical, ideally within the hour.
• If it is a baby tooth, do not re-insert into the mouth.

For a Chipped or Fractured Tooth:

• In the case of a broken down tooth due to cavities, manage discomfort with acetaminophen or ibuprofen as needed. Schedule an appointment with your dentist.
• In the case of a tooth fracture resulting from trauma/impact, save any tooth fragments and bring them to the dentist.

For Soft Tissue Injuries:

• Rinse with warm salt water.
• Apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth to stop bleeding.
• Use a cold compress for pain and swelling.
• Manage discomfort with acetaminophen or ibuprofen as needed.

Remember, these are just temporary measures. It's crucial to get professional help as soon as possible.

Creating Your Emergency Dental Kit

Be prepared by assembling a dental first aid kit containing:

• Hank's balanced salt solution (HBSS). A pH-balanced salt solution containing ingredients, such as calcium, glucose and magnesium ions, that can sustain tooth cells (for storing knocked-out teeth). Alternatively, the tooth can be placed in saliva or milk.
• Gauze pads (can be used to hold pressure for any bleeding)
• Small container with a lid (to store any fragments or teeth as needed)
• Over the counter pain relievers such as children’s/infant’s acetaminophen/ibuprofen 
• Your dentist's emergency contact information

When Should My Child Go to the Dentist vs. the Emergency Room?

In most cases, your pediatric dentist should be your first call for dental emergencies. They're equipped to handle issues like severe toothaches, chipped or broken teeth, and even knocked-out teeth. 

However, there are situations where the emergency room is the better choice. Especially if injuries may not be limited to teeth, head to the ER if your child experiences severe facial trauma, uncontrolled bleeding, or difficulty breathing or swallowing due to dental swelling. If a dental emergency occurs outside of your dentist's office hours and can't wait, the ER can provide necessary immediate care. 

Get The Care Your Child Needs in Colorado Springs

If your child is experiencing a dental emergency, don't hesitate to reach out to us at Campfire Smiles Pediatric Dentistry in Colorado Springs. Our team is ready to provide the care your child needs. Call us at (719) 490-8881 or request an appointment online. Remember, when it comes to dental emergencies, quick action is key.