Your child is probably going to have a dental emergency at some point, as most children do. In the case of  a dental emergency, stay calm and follow the instructions below.


Baby Tooth is Knocked Out

Contact your dentist as soon as possible. Do not ignore the situation, or attempt to replant the tooth, because the severity of the situation may cause damage to the development of the permanent tooth.


Permanent Tooth is Knocked Out

Find the tooth and handle it by the crown and not the root of the tooth. You may rinse the tooth with water but DO NOT clean with soap or handle the tooth unnecessarily by scrubbing. Inspect the tooth for fractures. If  possible, try to insert the tooth back into the socket and have the patient hold the tooth in place by biting on a piece of gauze or a wash cloth. If you cannot insert the tooth, transport the tooth in a cup containing the patient’s own saliva or cold milk. The patient must see a dentist IMMEDIATELY! Time is a critical factor for the survival of the tooth.


A Tooth is Chipped or Fracture

Contact your dentist immediately. Rinse the mouth out with water. If the lip is injured, apply an ice pack to the area. 


Severe Blow to the Head or Jaw Fracture

Immediately go to the emergency room of your local hospital. This can be life-threatening.



Call your dentist as soon as possible.  If needed, use over-the-counter children's pain medication. Dosage is based on your child's weight and age, for further assistance on medication, ask your local pharmacist. You may apply an ice pack to the face in the area of pain. Do not apply a heat compress or aspirin on the sore area.


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