Emergencies

What do I do if my child loses a tooth?

In an emergency, contact our office right away. If your child loses a permanent tooth, try to keep it moist while you get to the dentist. You can try placing it back into the socket if that is not painful, or between the cheek and gums. If that is not possible, placing it in milk can greatly improve the chances of saving the tooth.

What do I do if my child cracks a tooth?

If your child cracks a tooth or bites his or her tongue or lip, rinse the mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to reduce the swelling. For toothaches or objects stuck in the mouth or between teeth, gently floss to clean the area and remove any debris. Do not put aspirin on the teeth or gums, and never use a sharp object on your teeth.

What do I do if my child has a toothache?

Clean the tooth well with warm salt water and rinse thoroughly. Do not use aspirin on an aching tooth or gum, but instead apply a cold compress to the affected area. Acetaminophen is recommended for temporary pain relief, but it is best to see a dentist as soon as possible.

What To Do for a Cut or Bitten Tongue, Lip or Cheek

For these kinds of emergencies, it is best to apply a cold compress to the affected area. If bleeding occurs, apply slight pressure with a clean cloth. If the bleeding continues after 15 minutes of applied pressure, seek medical attention immediately.

What To Do for Broken Braces and Wires

If your child has a broken wire from his or her braces, only remove it if it comes out easily. If the wire is caught on the cheek or in the gums and is painful and difficult to remove, contact us for an emergency appointment. If you have a loose or broken appliance that is not causing any pain, simply cover the broken piece with orthodontic wax and make an appointment to come in for an adjustment.

My child has a possible broken jaw. What do I do?

If your child experiences a broken jaw, you will need to go to the emergency room as soon as possible after securing the jaw closed with a tie or kitchen towel.

How To Treat Cold Sores and Canker Sores

These nuisances can usually be treated at home by applying pressure to a clean piece of gauze over the affected area for 15 minutes. You only need to see a dentist if bleeding continues after 15 minutes of applied pressure.

Other Helpful Tips

Wearing a mouthguard during physical activity will help protect your teeth. By avoiding chewing on tough foods like ice, popcorn kernels, or hard candy, you can greatly reduce the chances of cracking a tooth. Combined with these preventive efforts and refraining from cutting or tearing objects with your teeth, you can minimize your risk of a dental emergency.