Handling Dental Emergencies in Children
Dental injuries and emergencies can be stressful for both kids and parents, but they are more common than you might think. Nearly one-third of children experience some form of dental trauma, with even more facing unexpected dental emergencies.
Children are especially vulnerable to dental injuries during two key stages:
- Toddlerhood (18-40 months) – A time of exploration and curiosity, increasing the risk of falls and accidents.
- Preadolescence and adolescence – A period when sports-related injuries become more frequent.
Below, we highlight some of the most common childhood dental emergencies and provide practical tips for handling them.
Toothache
Tooth pain in children can stem from various causes, including cavities, injuries, infections, or tooth loss — often due to sports activities or missed dental check-ups. Our emergency dentist in San Tan Valley, AZ, will determine the source of the pain, whether it originates from the tooth, root, or nerve.
Knocked-Out Tooth Treatment
If your child loses a tooth due to an injury, contact our office right away.
- Baby Tooth – Place the tooth in milk and call us for guidance.
- Adult Tooth – Time is crucial. Handle the tooth by the crown (not the root) and get to our office as soon as possible.
Fractured Crown
As the largest and most visible part of the tooth, the crown is especially prone to injury. Crown fractures can vary from minor cracks that require little to no treatment to severe fractures exposing the pulp, which need immediate dental care in San Tan Valley, AZ.
A pediatric dentist will assess the severity of the fracture using dental X-rays. Changes in tooth color, such as pink or yellow tones, may indicate underlying issues and should be addressed promptly. Minor fractures can often be repaired with dental sealant, while more serious cases may require pulp treatment.
If a crown fracture occurs, contact a pediatric dentist right away. Sharp edges from the broken enamel can irritate the soft tissues of the mouth, increasing the risk of infection.
Root Fracture
Our dentist frequently treats children with fractured teeth. Signs of a root fracture may include tooth displacement or reduced sensitivity to cold foods and drinks. Dental trauma can also damage the nerve, making the tooth more sensitive to even mild pressure.
Dental Concussion - Tooth Injury
Dental concussions can occur in children of any age, sometimes causing temporary or permanent tooth discoloration. If the tooth does not turn black or dark, it may not be a major concern. However, color changes can indicate that the tooth is dying and may require root canal treatment to remove infected nerves. Prompt dental evaluation is recommended.
Cheek, Lip, or Tongue Injury
If your child accidentally bites their tongue, lip, or cheek, immediate treatment can help prevent infection. Our pediatric emergency dentist will assess any bleeding or swelling and determine the best course of action. If the injury involves a deep bite to the flap under the upper lip, a visit to the emergency room may be necessary.
Jaw fracture
Jaw fractures in children can result from falls, contact sports, or other accidents. Symptoms such as severe pain in the teeth, chin, or jaw, along with difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking, should never be ignored. Seek emergency dental care immediately for proper evaluation and treatment.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Head injuries that result in dental trauma can be distressing for both children and parents. Immediate care from a pediatric emergency dentist is crucial to ensure long-term relief and protect your child’s oral health. If you have concerns about emergency dental care in San Tan Valley, AZ, contact our pediatric emergency dentist for expert guidance.