Seek Urgent Treatment For Pediatric Dental Emergencies: What to Do Right Away

A dental emergency is often particularly distressing for children and their parents. Immediate and effective treatment is crucial to ensure the best possible outcomes and to prevent further complications. At Triad Pediatric Dentistry in Greensboro, North Carolina, Dr. Sona Isharani and her team are dedicated to providing prompt and compassionate care for young patients experiencing dental emergencies. Triad Pediatric Dentistry is your trusted provider when searching for a skilled dentist who can perform emergency dentistry on kids. Understanding the urgency of pediatric dental emergencies and what to do in such a situation can make a difference in your child’s oral health and overall well-being.

What constitutes a dental emergency for children?

A dental emergency for children can include:

• Acute toothache: Persistent and intense pain could indicate an infection, abscess, or other severe dental issue.
• Knocked-out tooth: Immediate care is necessary to save the tooth and prevent damage to the permanent teeth.
• Broken or chipped tooth: This can cause pain, sensitivity, and an increased risk of infection.
• Injury to soft tissue: Cuts or lacerations to the gums, cheeks, lips, or tongue that cause significant bleeding.
• Loose or displaced tooth: A tooth that has been loosened or moved out of alignment due to trauma.

How should I handle a tooth that has been knocked out?

If your child’s tooth is knocked out, it is essential to act quickly:

• Retrieve the tooth: Handle the tooth by its crown (top part). Avoid handling it by the root.
• Gentle Rinse: If the tooth is dirty, rinse it delicately with cool water. Do not try to remove anything from the tooth (debris, loose tissue, etc.)
• Try to place it back into the socket: Attempt to place the tooth back into the socket. Have your child bite on a clean cloth or gauze to hold it in place.
• Keep it saturated: If you are unable to insert the tooth back into its socket, you can place it in a container of saline solution, milk, or your child’s saliva.
• Seek prompt dental care: Contact Dr. Isharani at Triad Pediatric Dentistry for urgent care.

What should I do if my child has a painful toothache?

If your child is experiencing a painful toothache:

• Cleanse the mouth: Use warm water to clean the area.
• Floss delicately: Gently extricate any loose food particles trapped between the teeth.
• Cold compress application: Take a cold compress and press it to the outside of the cheek. This will help to provide some relief for pain and any existing swelling.
• Avoid painkillers on the gums: It is important not to place any painkillers (e.g., Aspirin) directly on the gums, as this can cause tissue damage.
• Contact the dentist: To diagnose and treat the issue, schedule an emergency appointment with Dr. Isharani at Triad Pediatric Dentistry.

How can I prevent dental emergencies?

While not all dental emergencies can be prevented, certain measures can reduce the risk:

• Continue to Get Regular Dental Exams: Frequent visits to Dr. Isharani can help recognize and address possible problems before they develop into emergencies.
• Use protective gear: Ensure your child wears a mouthguard during sports and other physical activities.
• Practice good oral hygiene: Encourage your child to brush and floss regularly to keep their teeth and gums healthy.
• Avoid chewing hard objects: Discourage your child from chewing on ice, popcorn kernels, and other hard items that can cause damage.

Where Can I Go For A Dental Emergency?

In the event of a dental emergency, swift action is crucial. Dr. Sona Isharani and her team at Triad Pediatric Dentistry in Greensboro, NC, are ready to provide the urgent care your child needs. Don’t wait until an emergency occurs—schedule a routine check-up to ensure your child’s oral health is in excellent condition. Contact Triad Pediatric Dentistry today at (336) 804-8668 to make an appointment and keep your child’s smile healthy and bright.