When your child needs urgent dental treatment, your pediatric dentist stands ready to help. Please keep the emergency number available and convenient.

Q: What should I do if my child's baby tooth is knocked out?

A: Contact your pediatric dentist as soon as possible. The baby tooth should not be replanted because of the potential for subsequent damage to the developing permanent tooth.

Q: What should I do if my child's permanent tooth is knocked out?

A: The most important thing to do is remain calm. Then find the tooth. Hold it by the crown rather than the root and try to reinsert it in the socket. If that is not possible, put the tooth in a glass of milk and take your child and the glass immediately to the pediatric dentist.

Q: What if a tooth is chipped or fractured?

A: Contact your pediatric dentist immediately. Quick action can save the tooth, prevent infection and reduce the need for extensive dental treatment. Rinse the mouth with water and apply cold compresses to reduce swelling if the lip also was injured. If you can find the broken tooth fragment, bring it with you to the dental office.

Q: What about a severe blow to the head or jaw fracture?

A: You need immediate medical attention. A severe head injury can be life-threatening. Take your child to the nearest emergency room as soon as possible.

Q: What if my child has a toothache?

A: First, rinse the irritated area with warm salt water and place a cold compress on the face if it is swollen. Give the child acetaminophen for any pain, rather then placing aspirin on the teeth or gums. Finally, see a dentist as soon as possible.

Q: Can dental injuries be prevented?

A: Yes. Your child’s risk for dental injuries can be reduced greatly by following a few simple suggestions. First, wearing protective gear, including a mouthguard in sports. Second, always use a car seat for young children and require seat belts for everyone else in the car. Third, child-proof your home to prevent falls and electrical injuries. Regular dental check-ups provide your dentist an opportunity to discuss additional age-appropriate preventive strategies with your child.

Source: American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry