Q: What should I do if my child’s baby tooth is knocked out?
A: Contact our office as soon as possible. While knocked out baby teeth are rarely placed back in the mouth, it is important to examine your child to be sure no fragments of tooth are embedded in the gums, lip, or tongue, as well as determine the extent of trauma to other teeth in the area.
Q: What should I do if my child’s permanent tooth is knocked out?
A: Find the tooth! Hold the tooth by the crown (top) and rinse it gently using only cool water. (Do not scrub it or clean it with soap — use just water) If possible, replace the tooth in the socket and hold it there with clean gauze or a washcloth (remember, the smooth side of the crown always faces out). If you can’t put the tooth back in the socket, place the tooth in a clean container with milk or water. Come to our office immediately. (Call our emergency number if it’s after hours.) The faster you act, the better your chances of saving the tooth.
Q: What if a tooth is chipped or fractured?
A: Contact our office promptly, and our doctor on call will determine if the fracture requires immediate attention. If necessary, quick action can save the tooth, prevent infection and reduce the need for extensive dental treatment. Rinse out your child’s mouth with room temperature water and apply cold compresses to reduce swelling. If you can find the broken tooth fragment, bring it with you to our office.
Q: What if my child has a toothache?
A: Call us and visit the office promptly. To comfort your child, rinse the mouth with room-temperature saltwater. Apply a cold compress or ice wrapped in a cloth. Do not put heat or aspirin on the sore area. We may suggest using over-the-counter pain medications to keep your child comfortable until they can be seen in our office.