Dental emergencies in children can be stressful for both the child and the parents. Quick and effective action can alleviate pain and prevent further complications. Here are some common dental emergencies and tips on how to handle and prevent them.

Common Child Dental Emergencies

1. Toothache: If your child complains of a toothache, rinse their mouth with warm water and inspect for food particles stuck between teeth. Floss gently to remove any debris. If the pain persists, a cold compress can reduce swelling. Avoid giving your child aspirin, as it can cause burns on the gums. Schedule an appointment with our office as soon as possible to identify and treat the underlying cause.
2. Knocked-Out Tooth: For a knocked-out permanent tooth, keep calm and act quickly. Hold the tooth by the crown (the top part) and rinse it gently with water without scrubbing. If possible, place the tooth back into the socket and hold it there with clean gauze. If reinsertion isn’t possible, store the tooth in a container of milk or saliva and seek immediate dental care. Time is critical for successful reinsertion.
3. Broken or Chipped Tooth: Rinse your child’s mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Save any broken tooth fragments and contact your dentist promptly. Depending on the severity, the dentist may use bonding, veneers, or crowns to restore the tooth.
4. Bitten Tongue or Lip: Clean the area gently with water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. If the bite is severe and bleeding doesn’t stop, seek medical attention immediately.
5. Objects Stuck in Teeth: Attempt to gently remove the object with dental floss. Avoid using sharp instruments, which can damage gums. If you cannot remove the object, give us a call.

Preventing Dental Emergencies 

1. Regular Dental Check-Ups: Schedule routine dental visits here at CMDC for professional cleanings and examinations. We can identify potential issues early and provide preventive care advice. 
2. Good Oral Hygiene: Teach your child to brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss once a day. Proper oral hygiene reduces the risk of cavities, gum disease, and infections. 
3. Protective Gear: Ensure your child wears a mouthguard during sports activities. Mouthguards protect teeth from trauma caused by contact sports or accidental falls. At CMDC, your child can be fitted for their very own custom mouthguard for just $25!
4. Avoid Hard Foods: Discourage your child from chewing on hard items like ice, popcorn kernels, and hard candy, which can crack or chip teeth.
5. Safe Habits: Teach your child not to use their teeth as tools to open packages or bite down on non-food items. 

Prompt attention to dental emergencies can prevent long-term damage and alleviate your child’s discomfort. Educating your child on proper oral hygiene and safe habits, combined with regular dental visits, can significantly reduce the risk of emergencies. Always have your our contact information handy and don’t hesitate to seek professional help when needed. Prevention and preparedness are key to maintaining your child’s oral health.

Please feel free to consult with Dr Pravir Patel a family dental professional in Mississauga for personalized and trusted advice and guidance regarding your specific dental needs. We can be reached at (905) 814 – 4001 or smile@cmdc.ms to schedule a dental consultation