Some tips on what to do should a dental emergency arise.

Dental Emergencies with children and what to do…

Dental Emergencies are something that many of us as parents or caregivers don’t usually think about until they happen. Once a dental emergency does happen we become worried and unsure of where to go, who to see or what to do. Knowledge is comforting and can save a tooth in some situations so, we have come up with a few basic tips in case you should be faced with a dental emergency. Remember these are only a few tips and we always advise our patients to call any of our locations to speak with one of our qualified pediatric dental professionals.

Questions will come up like, should I go the the emergency room or should I call my child’s pediatric dentist? At these times it can be confusing to know what course of action is the best.

Check out our recommendations below to help you better prepare in case you find yourself faced with a dental emergency.

Toothache:        

For toothaches, start with warm salt water rinses, 2-3 times a day and some over the counter medications, like Tylenol or Ibuprofen making sure to follow all guidelines on the medication itself for your child or under the supervision of your pediatric dentist. Make sure the child gets some rest and has somewhere quiet to sit. If the pain is manageable with over the counter medications, call us  and schedule an appointment where we can review the issue and take necessary x-rays to figure out what is going on. When speaking with one of our skilled team members please make sure you let us know if the pain is manageable and all medications the child has received.

If the pain of a toothache cannot be managed with over the counter medications, something stronger may be required or even an antibiotic for infection. This is something the doctors here at Young & Polite will have to determine and prescribe if necessary. If there is swelling of the face associated with the pain we advise that you seek immediate attention with us or at your nearest emergency room.

Cut tongue, check or lip:

Minor cuts and abrasions can be dealt with at home by applying a cold compress to the area until bleeding stops (usually within a few minutes). If the bleeding is continuous and the cut looks deep we advise you to contact us or go to your nearest emergency room.

Chipped tooth:Minor chips in teeth are usually not an emergency. Your child may experience cold sensitivity with the area but it should be manageable with over the counter medication like Ibuprofen. Contact your pediatric dental office as promptly as possible after a chipped tooth occurs as the tooth may require a filling to restore it.

Major fractures of teeth, especially adult teeth, are sometimes more complex. Sometimes the nerve of the tooth will be compromised and the child will experience pain and sensitivity to temperatures. Avoid very hot or cold foods or beverages and contact us. In some cases of severe fractures, immediate Root Canal Treatment may be required.

Baby tooth pushed out of place:

In many circumstances a baby tooth that has been pushed out of place does not require much professional care. If the child can close their mouth and chew comfortably, follow up with us on the next business day. If the child cannot close their mouth or chew comfortably then contact us immediately. 

Adult (permanent) tooth pushed out of place: Contact us immediately for advice.

Permanent tooth knocked out:

Sometimes it is possible to save an adult tooth that has been knocked out. Quickly find the tooth if possible, place it in milk and contact us immediately. We will then try to reinsert the tooth into its correct position. Many times teeth that have been knocked out and reinserted with success will end up requiring Root Canal Treatment as time goes on. Swelling is normal in these situations so don’t be alarmed if this occurs.

Simple Precautions:

Have your child wear a mouth guard if playing contact sports.

Don’t let your child use their teeth to cut or break anything.

Avoid chewing on ice and very hard candy.

Please note when calling and speaking to one of our team members please provide as much information about your child, the area of the mouth involved in the emergency and all medications the child has received.  Although this information helps us to better understand the severity of the dental emergency as dental professionals we can not diagnose nor treat an emergency over the phone. We are happy to provide you with recommendations to put your child at ease and provide comfort,but we always recommend for your child to be seen by one of our skilled pediatric dentists in office for diagnosis and proper treatment.

Here at Young & Polite we have several convenient locations in and around the Charlotte, NC area.

*Please note the information provided is not for diagnosing, only to assist with relief of the dental emergency.  Please contact our office for more information or to speak with a team member if you are ever unsure of a dental emergency.