As a parent, you always want to protect your child from harm. But accidents do happen, and dental emergencies are one among them. At Rigby Pediatrics Dental in Rigby, Idaho, We understand how overwhelming children’s dental emergencies can be. Still, staying calm is the first step to the well-being of your child’s dental health. To help you tackle such situations quickly, we have put together some valuable tips on what to do during a dental emergency for children. So, keep reading!
Knocked-out Tooth
If your child falls or hits their face, a tooth may come out, too. In such cases, gently rinse the tooth with water, but hold it by its crown and not the root. Try to reposition the tooth back into its socket and have the child hold the tooth in place by gently biting down on a soft cloth or gauze. If reattaching the tooth is not possible, put the tooth in a clean container with milk, saline solution, or saliva. Call our office immediately to get the care your child needs. Dr. Kory Bingham is an excellent dentist who ensures the best care, comfort, and fun during your child’s appointment.
Broken Tooth
If your child’s tooth breaks or chips, save the broken piece if possible. Rinse the mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Bring your child to our pediatric office to determine the extent of the damage and explore any restorative options.
Soft Tissue Injury
If your child bites their lip, cheek, or tongue, clean the area with a cloth and apply a cold compress. If the injury doesn’t stop bleeding, take your child to the doctor or emergency room—ice cream or cold foods, which will help to soothe the area and reduce swelling.
Toothache
Toothaches are a common dental problem in children and can be caused by several reasons, such as cavities, gum disease, or dental abscesses. First, rinse your child’s mouth with warm water and remove any food particles with dental floss. Apply a cold compress if there is swelling. Don’t give aspirin to children, as it can increase bleeding. Take your child to the dentist as soon as possible to find out the root cause of the problem.
Loose Tooth
A loose tooth is normal when it’s time to fall out, but if your child’s tooth got loose due to an accident, visit a pediatric dentist immediately. Dr. Kory Bingham can stabilize the tooth to prevent further damage. In the meantime, have your child avoid chewing on hard or crunchy foods and encourage gentle brushing around the affected tooth.
Avoiding Dental Emergencies
Preventing dental emergencies in children is crucial for their oral health and overall well-being. Here are some tips and tricks to help parents avoid dental emergencies for their children:
- Regular Dental Check-ups: Schedule regular dental check-ups to monitor your child’s oral health and address any potential issues before they escalate into emergencies.
- Supervise Brushing and Flossing: Ensure your child brushes their teeth at least twice daily and flosses daily. Supervise young children to ensure they use proper techniques and encourage older children to maintain good oral hygiene habits.
- Use Protective Gear for Sports: If your child participates in sports, especially contact sports, provide them with a properly fitting mouthguard to protect their teeth from potential injuries during activities.
- Healthy Diet Choices: Encourage a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. Limit sugary snacks and beverages, as they can contribute to tooth decay and cavities.
- Avoid Chewing on Hard Objects: Discourage children from chewing on hard objects like ice, pens, or pencils, which can lead to dental fractures or damage.
Children’s Dental Emergencies in Rigby, ID
In a dental emergency, it’s essential to stay calm and provide comfort to your child. A quick-thinking parent can help ensure the best possible outcome for their child’s dental health. Remember to keep dental floss, gauze, and a cold compress in your first aid kit. Stay aware of what to do during a dental emergency, and you can easily handle such situations. Please schedule an appointment with Dr. Kory Bingham for a dental check-up and to discuss ways to prevent dental emergencies. If you are experiencing a dental emergency, contact us immediately! And remember – keep smiling!