Stay calm, we are here to help
Knocked out permanent tooth
Stay calm. Find the tooth if possible, and only handle it by the crown. Try not to touch the root surface. If the tooth appears intact, you can reinsert the tooth back into the socket. Your child can keep the tooth in place by biting gently on a cloth or gauze swab. If you are not able to reinsert the tooth, store it in a cup with your child’s saliva, or milk. Never use water. Your child must then see a dentist immediately for emergency management.
Knocked out baby tooth
Contact your child’s dentist. A baby tooth should not be placed back in the socket, as there is risk of damaging the underlying developing permanent tooth. The surrounding injury to the gums and lips will need to be assessed. In many cases, no treatment will be required.
Fractured or chipped tooth
Locate the fractured piece if possible, and contact your child’s dentist as soon as possible. If it is a permanent tooth, the time elapsed between injury to treatment will be a crucial factor in the long term prognosis of the tooth.
Toothache
Clean the sore area with a soft toothbrush and warm water. Use dental floss if possible to help dislodge any food that may be impacted. If pain persists, contact your child’s dentist to make an appointment. If you notice that your child’s face is swollen, you will need to see a dentist immediately. If this is not possible, you should take your child to the nearest children’s hospital for emergency treatment.
