Dental emergencies are stressful, especially when it’s your child in pain. Whether it’s a tooth knocked out on the playground or a sudden toothache at bedtime, it’s hard to know what to do in the moment. The good news? Staying calm and acting quickly can make a big difference.
Here’s a parent-friendly guide on how to handle common dental emergencies and when it’s time to call your local emergency dentist.
First Things First: Don’t Panic
We know, easier said than done. But your child will take emotional cues from you, so try to stay calm. Gently check their mouth for bleeding, swelling, or visible damage, and comfort them while you figure out the next step.
Common Child Dental Emergencies (and How to Handle Them)
Knocked Out Teeth: If a permanent tooth is knocked out, time is critical. Try to keep the tooth moist—place it in milk or have your child hold it in their mouth between their cheek and gums. If a baby tooth is knocked out, don’t try to reinsert it. Either way, you’ll want to get to an emergency dentist as soon as possible.
Cracked or Chipped Teeth: For cracked or chipped teeth, rinse their mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Toothaches that don’t go away with gentle cleaning or over-the-counter pain relief may signal a deeper issue, like an infection or abscess. These should never be ignored.
Bleeding: Bitten lips, cheeks, or tongues can look dramatic with all the blood, but they often heal quickly. Apply firm pressure with a clean cloth and some ice to help with swelling. If the bleeding doesn’t stop after 10–15 minutes, call a healthcare provider.
When to Call the Dentist vs. the ER
In most dental emergencies, your first call should be to an emergency dentist, especially if it involves teeth or mouth pain. If your child has heavy bleeding, a suspected broken jaw, or signs of a head injury, head to the ER.
Prevention Makes a Big Difference
While not every accident can be avoided, a few habits can help prevent dental emergencies. Encourage your child to wear a mouthguard during sports, avoid chewing on ice or hard candy, and keep up with regular dental checkups.
Contact Emergency Dental Services Right Away
At Emergency Dental Services, we specialize in handling pediatric dental emergencies with care, compassion, and urgency. We know these situations never happen at a convenient time, which is why we offer flexible scheduling and fast service for families in Fairfax, Virginia.
If your child is in pain, don’t wait. Call us today, we’re here to help.