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childhood dental emergency care

Children Dental Injuries in Levelland

Dental injuries are common in children, with nearly one-third experiencing some form of dental trauma. The highest risk periods occur during toddlerhood (18-40 months) and pre-adolescence/adolescence, when falls and sports injuries are more frequent.

Below are some common childhood dental emergencies and how to handle them.

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Toothache

Toothaches in children often result from tooth decay, fractures, trauma, or food impaction. If your child complains of tooth pain:

    Rinse the area with warm water.
    Check for food debris and remove it with floss or a toothbrush.
    Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
    Contact your pediatric dentist if pain persists.

Knocked-out tooth (avulsion)

If a baby tooth is knocked out, do not attempt to reimplant it, as this could damage the developing adult tooth. If a permanent tooth is knocked out:

    Handle the tooth by the crown (not the root).
    Rinse it with water without scrubbing or scraping.
    For older children, try reinserting it into the socket. If not possible, place it in milk or saliva.
    Keep the tooth moist and seek immediate dental care—reimplantation success is highest within one hour.

Tooth pushed into the jawbone (dental intrusion)

A strong impact may force a tooth into the jawbone, potentially damaging ligaments or the tooth socket. If this occurs:

    Rinse the mouth with cold water.
    Apply ice packs to reduce swelling.
    Give Tylenol for pain relief.
    Seek immediate dental care.

Displaced tooth (luxation, extrusion, or lateral displacement)

A tooth may shift out of its normal position without being fully knocked out. Treatment depends on severity:

    Apply a cold compress to ease swelling.
    Give pain relief like Children’s Tylenol.
    Contact your pediatric dentist immediately.

Chipped or broken tooth (crown fracture)

Crown fractures vary in severity, from minor enamel cracks to exposed pulp requiring urgent treatment. Signs to watch for:

    Rinse the mouth with warm water.
    Use a cold compress to reduce swelling.
    If the tooth is jagged, cover sharp edges with wax or gauze.
    Visit your pediatric dentist as soon as possible.

Root fracture

A root fracture isn’t always visible, but X-rays can confirm the damage. If suspected:

    Apply a cold compress to reduce discomfort.
    Give pain relief as needed.
    Schedule a dental visit immediately.

Tooth concussion

A concussed tooth isn’t loose or broken but may turn dark from internal damage. While not always an emergency, a black or dark tooth may indicate it’s dying and needs evaluation.

Injuries to the cheek, lips, or tongue

    Apply direct pressure with gauze or a clean cloth to stop bleeding.
    Use ice packs to reduce swelling.
    Seek medical help if bleeding doesn’t stop.

Suspected broken jaw

    Proceed to the emergency room immediately.
    Minimize jaw movement using a soft wrap.

Head trauma

If your child sustains a head injury, go to the Emergency Room immediately, even if they remain conscious, to rule out concussion or internal bleeding.

For any dental emergency, quick action can prevent long-term complications. Contact your pediatric dentist or seek emergency care if needed.

Dare to have the smile you've always wanted. Our entire team is dedicated to providing you with the personalized, quality dental care that you deserve.

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Dare to have the smile you've always wanted. Our entire team is dedicated to providing you with the personalized, quality dental care that you deserve.

Navigation

LEGAL PAGES

Created by DearDoc.

Dr. Richard McCasland © All Rights Reserved