Any health emergency should be taken seriously, and dental emergencies are no exception. But what is considered a dental emergency and what should be done in the event of one?
Any dental problem that puts the future of a tooth in jeopardy, causes ongoing tissue bleeding, or severe pain is considered to be a dental emergency and should be immediately addressed.
If your child is experiencing a dental emergency, call Wilson Pediatric Dentistry immediately at (252) 291-4300.
Below are some common types of dental emergencies and the appropriate actions for each.
Common Types of Dental Emergencies
Knocked out tooth
Every year, more than five million teeth are knocked out in children and adults. Sports and general roughhousing are the most common culprits.
What to do:
- Pick up the tooth by the crown (the top). Do not touch the root.
- Rinse off the tooth, but don’t scrub it or remove any attached tissue.
- Try to place the tooth back into the socket and hold it in place until you get to the dentist. If you are unable to do so, place it in a cup of milk.
- Call your dentist immediately. If you’re near Wilson, North Carolina, call Wilson Pediatric Dentistry. Time is of the essence for a knocked out tooth.
Chipped or fractured tooth
A tooth that becomes cracked or chipped on the outside has often suffered some internal damage as well that can put the tooth’s health in danger.
What to do:
- Rinse out your mouth with warm water.
- Use a cold compress to minimize any swelling if facial trauma was involved.
- You may take acetaminophen to alleviate pain.
- Make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.
Injuries to the mouth
Punctures, tears, and cuts to the lips, cheeks, gums, mouth, or tongue can constitute a dental emergency when severe.
What to do:
- Clean the affected area with warm water.
- Apply pressure to the wound with gauze.
- Take acetaminophen for pain.
- Get to an oral surgeon or emergency room as soon as possible.
Oral infection
Most infections of the mouth are not considered to be emergencies. But if you experience swelling around the jawline or under your mouth and have difficulty breathing or swallowing, it may qualify as a dental emergency.
What to do:
- Take acetaminophen for pain and swelling.
- Contact your dentist.
Contact Wilson Pediatric Dentistry
If your child is experiencing a dental emergency, call us right away to schedule a same-day appointment today. Dental emergencies can lead to long-term damage if they’re not addressed right away, and the team at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry is standing by to help.
