The School Nurse Just Called…
What To Do When Your Child Has a Dental Emergency
The school nurse just called, and my child has a toothache, now what?
A child may experience dental pain for several reasons ranging from very minor to very serious. A visit to the dentist is the best way to determine the cause of his/her pain. The pain could be caused by many things including:
an irritated gum
a permanent tooth trying to erupt
a cavity in the tooth
an infection
We will do everything possible to get your child in as soon as possible to evaluate his/her pain and offer you a solution. A dental x-ray is the best way to determine the cause. After an x-ray is taken, we will evaluate it and give you options for treatment. You can be sure that we will try our best to relieve your child's pain and he/she will be treated with the gentleness and care your child deserves.
Steps to Follow if a Tooth is Knocked Out
According to the American Association of Endodontists, around five million teeth are knocked out every year due to accidents, falls, and sports-related injuries among others. In many cases, the tooth can be saved and replanted successfully. However, it's vital to take emergency action and follow these steps:
Locate the tooth immediately. Pick it up by the crown and avoid touching the root as much as possible. The less trauma that occurs to the root of the tooth, the more likely the tooth will be salvageable.
If the tooth is dirty, carefully rinse it with water or milk. Don't scrub it, rub it, or use any abrasive soaps or cleaners.
The tooth must stay moist at all times. Don't wrap it in a cloth or dry it with a paper towel. If possible, gently reinsert the tooth into the socket and hold it there with yourfingers. If doing this isn't an option:
Store it in milk
Hold it in the mouth against the cheek
Keep it in a glass of water with a pinch of salt
See your dentist as soon as possible, within thirty minutes is ideal. However, if the proper steps are followed, it may be possible to save the tooth even after an hour or more.
How to Keep Your Child’s Teeth Safe
Mouthguards: The Ins and Outs
No matter the sport or season, it’s always wise to keep the safety of your child’s teeth in mind! They will be ready with their helmets, shin guards, elbow pads, and shoes, but what about protecting their teeth? A lost or damaged tooth can be expensive to replace or repair. These dental injuries can often be prevented with a simple mouth guard.
There are three types of mouthguards:
Pre-formed mouthguards are found in the athletic department of most department stores. They are a "one size fits all" variety and are not recommended by most dentists.
Boil-to-fit mouthguards are also found in most department stores. They are placed in boiling water and then formed in the individual's mouth by biting into the softened material. Often they are bulky and can hinder breathing but can be effective.
Custom-fit mouthguards are made by your dentist. Impressions of your teeth are taken and then sent to a lab to make a custom mouthguard. They tend to be less bulky, do not hinder breathing and fit just your mouth. Custom-fit mouthguards offer the best protection for your teeth, tongue, and jaw.
Since young athletes are still growing, a new mouthguard may be needed every year. A mouthguard is suggested for anyone active, no matter the sport. Rock climbing, mountain biking, skateboarding, BMX biking, boxing, volleyball, and many other sports have the potential for injury to the tongue, jaw, or teeth.
If your child is active in sports and you want to know if a mouthguard is right for them, call our office today and we can help you decide what would best fit their lifestyle.
