4 Kids’ Dental Emergencies That Require a Trip to the Dentist

With shelter-in-place and stay-at-home orders, it’s important to only bring your child to the dentist for emergencies at this time. Keep the following information in mind, so you know when to get help from emergency dentists in Phoenix or Mesa.

Dental Emergencies in Kids

Dental emergencies in kids are tooth, jaw or gum problems that require immediate care. At-home treatment could lead to serious complications without the right care. You should see an emergency dentist if your child has any of the following dental problems.

Knocked-Out Tooth

If your child has a tooth that was knocked out, prompt dental care is crucial. Quick care means that the tooth might be able to be saved and put back in place. If done as soon as possible, the tooth may reattach to the root and remain in place.

Before heading to the dentist, rinse your child’s tooth with water, but be careful not to touch the bottom part of it. You can put your child’s tooth in a container filled with milk and bring it with you to the dentist. Taking these steps helps improve the chance of saving the tooth. If you can’t find the tooth or if it can’t be saved, you can discuss replacement options with your child’s dentist.

Dental Infections

Dental infections are a serious problem that can lead to severe complications if left untreated. Tooth infections occur when bacteria invades one or more of your child’s teeth. Bacteria may enter the bloodstream and spread to other parts of your child’s body without prompt care, which typically requires antibiotics.

If you think your child has a dental infection, you should get to an emergency dentist as soon as you can. Signs of infection include severe or constant tooth or jaw pain. This pain can spread to the ear or neck. Your child might also have a fever and swelling in the affected part of the jaw.

Broken Tooth

A broken or severely chipped tooth is another dental problem that requires emergency dental care. Broken or cracked teeth need prompt treatment to lower the risk of an infection, which can develop if bacteria enter through the affected area. Your child’s dentist will repair the tooth to prevent this from happening and restore it to its normal function.

If possible, save the part of your child’s tooth that broke off, so you can bring it to the dentist’s office. If your child’s tooth is chipped, place the pieces in milk and bring them to the dentist.

Severe Toothache

Toothaches in children happen for different reasons. While some toothaches are mild, others cause severe pain or pain that lasts for a long time. Your child should see the dentist if the pain is persistent or severe, especially if it does not get better with children’s pain relievers.

Your dentist will determine the cause of your child’s toothache and provide appropriate care. For example, your child might need a filling if a cavity causes severe pain. While waiting for dental care, place a cold compress against your child’s jaw or cheek in the affected area to help ease swelling and pain.

Non-Emergencies

Not all dental problems require a trip to the dentist. Get in touch with your child’s dentist and set up an appointment when possible for more minor dental problems, such as a slightly chipped tooth or a lost filling. Your child’s dentist will provide instructions on how to care for these dental problems at home until you can bring your child to the office. You can also get help over the phone from the dentist for more minor concerns.

Conclusion

If you need emergency dental care for your child or yourself, please contact Dental Brothers. Our emergency dentists in Mesa and Phoenix can help the entire family maintain good dental health and deal with problems as they happen.