Pediatric Dental Emergencies

In case of a dental emergency, call our after-hours number at 978-545-5122 for assistance. We’re here when your child's dental health is at risk. Be sure to leave a detailed message with the patient’s name, your name, a contact number, and a brief description of the emergency. Also, keep this list of tips for managing common dental emergencies handy for quick reference.

Bitten Lip or Tongue

Biting the lip or tongue can happen, especially after dental procedures where local anesthesia was used, leaving the soft tissue numb. Gently clean the area, and over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers can help ease discomfort. Keeping the area clean is important, and most injuries heal within about two weeks. If you're concerned about the severity, give us a call.

Object Caught Between Teeth

If your child has something caught between their teeth, gently use dental floss to remove it. Avoid using sharp tools like metal or plastic objects, as they can damage the teeth or gums.

Broken, Chipped, or Fractured Tooth

If your child fractures a tooth, locate the broken fragment and store it in water or milk. Call us for further instructions. Quick action can often help with preserving the tooth and avoiding complications.

Knocked-Out Tooth (Avulsion)

If your child has a tooth knocked out (avulsion), find the tooth and handle it by the crown (the visible part), not the root. If possible, reimplant the tooth into its socket. If reimplantation isn’t possible, place the tooth in a special tooth preservation solution (like Hank’s Balanced Salt Solution) or in milk, and contact us immediately. This is one of the few time-sensitive dental emergencies where acting quickly can make a big difference.

Loose Tooth

If your child has a very loose tooth, encourage them to wiggle it out with clean hands. If it’s uncomfortable or they’re unable to remove it, schedule an appointment, and we can assist in the office.

Toothache

If your child complains of a toothache, try to identify the specific area of pain and check for any debris lodged between the teeth. OTC pain relievers can be helpful for managing discomfort. Call our office so we can evaluate the issue and provide necessary care.

Suspected Broken Jaw

If you suspect your child has a broken jaw, call us, an oral surgery office, or the nearest hospital emergency department immediately. A broken jaw often results from a blow to the head, which can be serious, so prompt medical attention is crucial.

Preventing Dental Injuries

Help your child avoid dental emergencies by taking preventive measures. Child-proof your home to reduce the risk of falls, and discourage chewing on hard foods like ice or popcorn kernels. Always use car seats for younger children and seat belts for older children. If your child participates in contact sports, ensure they wear a mouthguard, and consider asking us about a custom-fitted one. Finally, regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups are essential for preventing toothaches and maintaining overall oral health.

With these tips, you'll be better prepared to handle dental emergencies and keep your child's smile healthy!