Encountering a dental emergency involving your child can be distressing, but knowing how to respond calmly and effectively is crucial.
When your child complains of a toothache, start by rinsing their mouth with warm water to remove any debris.
Gently floss around the affected tooth to dislodge any trapped food particles that might be causing discomfort.
Over-the-counter pain relievers appropriate for your child’s age can help alleviate pain.
If your child’s adult tooth is knocked out due to an accident or injury, handle it carefully by the crown (the part visible in the mouth) and rinse it gently with water, taking care not to remove any attached tissue.
If the adult tooth has come out completely, try to reinsert the tooth into its socket if possible, or store it in a container of milk or saliva to keep it moist.
Contact a dental professional immediately for emergency care.
If it is a baby tooth, don’t stress, there is no need to reinsert the tooth. But it is best to contact a dental professional to make sure there are no remnants of the roots left in.
In the event of a broken or chipped tooth, it will likely need to be filled or if a very large fragment is missing, sometimes a silver crown is required.
Contact your dentist as soon as possible for evaluation and treatment.
During any dental emergency, it’s crucial to remain calm and take prompt action.
Assess the situation calmly and reassure your child.
Control bleeding by applying gentle pressure with clean gauze or cloth if necessary.
Rinse the mouth with warm water to clean the affected area and use a cold compress to reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
While some dental emergencies can be managed at home, others require immediate attention from a dental professional.
Contact your dentist or seek emergency dental care if your child experiences severe or persistent pain, excessive bleeding that does not stop with gentle pressure, signs of infection such as swelling, redness, or fever, or if your child has suffered a traumatic injury to the face or jaw.
By being prepared and knowing how to respond effectively to dental emergencies, parents can provide the necessary care and support to ensure the best outcome for their child’s oral health.
Call 9000 0071, visit wattleparkdental.com.au or email reception@wattleparkdental.com.au.
Dr Reina and the Wattle Park Dental team
