Permanent Tooth: If a permanent tooth is knocked out, preserve it in a container of milk until your child can be seen by their dentist. Ensure you handle the tooth only by the crown, never by the root. If the tooth can be reinserted into the socket, have your child hold it in place by biting down on a piece of gauze or a washcloth while awaiting dental care. If feasible, aim to bring your child to our office within a 30-minute window, which enhances the possibility of saving the tooth.

Primary (Baby) Teeth: When a primary tooth is dislodged, there is no need to reinsert it into the socket. Attempting this could risk harm to the underlying permanent tooth still within the gums. Arrange an appointment for an examination of your child’s oral cavity. Should your child require a tooth restoration or space maintainer, treatment options can be deliberated during this visit. 

A variety of causes can lead to toothaches, including infections, injuries, or abscesses. It’s imperative to have your child evaluated by their dentist to identify the root cause of the discomfort. Neglecting toothaches can lead to the condition deteriorating over time. As an interim measure, you can rinse your child’s mouth with warm salt water to soothe any infection-induced discomfort. Gentle brushing and flossing are also recommended to maintain cleanliness. Your child’s dentist can ascertain the source of the toothache and advise on the most effective treatment plan. 

Injuries to the tongue, cheek, or lip can occur in areas that have been numbed or as a result of an accident. When a child cannot sense a particular area in their mouth, it can be easily injured if they bite down. Moreover, a chipped or broken tooth can potentially cut or scrape the mouth’s soft tissues. If this happens, cleanse their mouth with warm salt water and continue regular brushing and flossing. A topical anesthetic can be applied to the injured area for pain relief, and a cold compress can help address swelling. If the injury is severe, don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions and schedule an appointment as required.

If your child experiences a pediatric dental emergency, call any of our Florida offices immediately! We’re here to provide the care they need when they need it most.