PEDIATRIC DENTAL EMERGENCIES

Start by carefully cleaning the area around the sore tooth. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help remove any trapped food. **Never** apply aspirin directly to the aching tooth or gum. If you experience facial swelling, use a cold compress on the affected area. For temporary relief, you can use a painkiller. Contact us as soon as possible for further assistance.

Cut or Bitten Tongue, Lip or Cheek Apply ice to any bruised areas. For bleeding, use sterile gauze or a clean cloth to apply firm but gentle pressure. If the bleeding doesn't stop with pressure or persists after 15 minutes, seek immediate care at an emergency room. Broken Tooth Rinse the affected area with warm water to cleanse it and remove any debris. Apply a cold compress to the facial area near the injury to reduce swelling and numb the pain. If there are any broken pieces of the tooth, carefully collect and keep them for possible reattachment. Seek immediate dental care to address the injury and evaluate the extent of damage, as prompt treatment is crucial for the best outcome.

Knocked Out Permanent Tooth If a tooth is knocked out, it's important to handle it carefully to increase the chances of saving it. Start by recovering the tooth, making sure to only touch the crown (the part that’s normally visible in the mouth) and avoid touching the root, as this can damage the delicate tissues necessary for reattachment. Gently rinse the tooth with water, but do not scrub or clean it extensively, as excessive handling can reduce the likelihood of successful re-implantation. Try to reinsert the tooth back into its socket in the mouth, ensuring it is positioned correctly. Hold it in place with a clean piece of gauze or cloth. If reinsertion isn’t possible, place the tooth in a container with milk or clean water to keep it moist. Since timely intervention is crucial for the best outcome, contact our dental office immediately for emergency care.

Possible Broken Jaw If you experience a jaw injury, secure the mouth closed using a towel, tie, or handkerchief. Seek immediate attention at an emergency room. Bleeding After a Baby Tooth Falls Out Fold a piece of gauze and press it firmly over the bleeding area. Bite down on the gauze for 15 minutes; if the bleeding persists, contact our hospital.