When your child complains about a sudden toothache, or a tooth is cracked or chipped, then you should bring them to our office right away! Even if this happens outside of normal business hours, give us a call so we can arrange to see them soon. At your Frisco, TX, children’s dental practice, we offer emergency dental care to help kids of all ages!
The Dangers of Dental Emergencies
When your little one injures a tooth, leading to a crack or chip, they should see us right away. Even if following an injury, no damage is visible, consider an appointment, as many dental fractures are invisible to the naked eye. Lack of care means the exposed tooth is vulnerable to bacteria, which can now reach the dentin and even the pulp, leading to tooth decay and infection that could cause pain and threaten smile stability. When a tooth is injured, see us right away. In the meantime, you can take action to limit your child’s discomfort.
Easing Discomfort
When a tooth is injured, such as crack or chip, then have your child rinse with warm water and use a cloth or piece of gauze to control bleeding. A cold compress to the side of the face can reduce facial swelling, and an over-the-counter pain reliever can ease discomfort. Try to bring any pieces with you to the office. If a tooth is knocked out, pick it up by the crown, never touch the root, and place it in a glass of milk or salt water, and bring it with you. If a crown or filling is loose or lost, make sure your kids avoid sugar or very hot or cold foods and drinks as the exposed tooth is quite sensitive. If something is caught between the teeth and floss can’t dislodge it, don’t use anything else as you risk damaging the teeth or gums.
Preventing Dental Emergencies
You can take steps to help protect your children from dental emergencies! For example, if they play full contact sports, make sure they wear a mouthguard. You can use a store-bought option or we can help create a custom option for a better level of protection, limiting the risk of damaged or knocked-out teeth. Make sure they brush and floss, as teeth free of tooth decay are stronger and less likely to become injured. If you have any questions about our approach to emergency dentistry, or about handling the initial discomfort and injury before you can see us, then please reach out to our office today to learn more.
TALK TO YOUR FRISCO, TX, DENTIST ABOUT EMERGENCY DENTISTRY
Our team wants to help protect little smiles from complications. To learn more about addressing dental emergencies in little smiles, call Healthy Smiles Children’s Dentistry at (214) 436-4774.