The boundless energy of children can be a joy to watch. But it’s unreasonable to expect that there won’t ever be any emergencies. It can blindside even the best of us. Falls, especially, are a common reason for mouth injuries and broken or knocked-out teeth.
If you have an emergency, you can rely on Walker Pediatric Dentistry’s dental services for kids in Salt Lake City. We will provide immediate care for your child.
Dealing with Dental Emergencies
During a dental emergency, such as accidental tooth loss, damage, and severe pain, as well as bleeding gums, it’s important to administer first aid and then reach out to us. We can examine your child and determine how to proceed.
Knocked-Out Teeth
In case of a knocked-out baby tooth, do not try to put it back as it could damage the permanent tooth growing in its place. If it’s a permanent tooth that was knocked out, pick it up — but don’t touch the root. Rinse it with water and gently put it back in the socket to raise the chances of the dentist being able to put it back successfully. Have your child gently bite down on a piece of gauze to keep the tooth in place.
Store the dislodged tooth in a cup of salt water or milk to keep it moist if you are unable to put the tooth back. Bring it with you when you go see us. We will see if it could still be replaced.
You can reach Walker Pediatric Dentistry’s 24-hour emergency line for your dental emergency needs and other dental services for kids in Utah.
Tips for Emergency Dental Situations
If your child’s tooth was knocked out or damaged, here are a few tips to help you and your child remain calm and get the treatment you need.
- Don’t try to put a baby tooth back in place, it could damage the developing permanent tooth
- If a permanent tooth is knocked out, rinse it with cool water, put it back in the socket, hold it in place with clean gauze, then call the dentist
- If you cannot put it back in place, put it in a clean container with milk or water and call the dentist immediately
- The sooner you get treatment for chipped or broken teeth, the more likely the dentist can prevent infection or more extensive damage
- In the case of a severe head injury or jaw fracture, call 9-1-1 immediately
Preventing Dental Emergencies
Not all dental emergencies can be prevented, but there are a few precautions you can take to reduce the chances.
- Make sure children wear proper protective gear (a mouthguard) when playing sports
- Children should also wear mouthguards for other outdoor activities such as riding a bike or skateboard
- Always place your child in a proper car seat when driving
- Check around the house for areas that might present a risk for falling
- Regular checkups with our pediatric dentists will also help you prevent childhood dental decay that could lead to dental pain and emergencies
In some cases your child might have a minor dental issue, such as a toothache, that doesn’t require immediate attention. When that happens, you can generally soothe the pain with an over-the-counter children’s pain medication, then call our offices during regular business hours.
If you have a dental emergency, contact Walker Pediatric Dentistry 24 hours a day on our emergency line. We handle dental emergencies within Holladay, Sugar House, and Murray.