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Pediatric Dental Emergencies
Young girl holding her cheek due to a tooth acheAt Chula Vista Smiles, we understand that children are prone to accidents, which is why we always leave time available for emergency appointments. However, knowing what to do before the appointment can make the difference between saving and losing a tooth. The following information will help you take the necessary steps during your child’s dental emergency.

Toothache


Toothaches are very common for children of all ages, and may not necessarily constitute a dental emergency. If severe pain persists, be sure to contact us so we can determine the root cause. The most common causes include tooth decay, trauma, impacted teeth, and fractures. You may be able to alleviate some of their pain by rinsing out their mouth with warm water or using an over-the-counter pain reliever.

Broken, Chipped, or Fractured Tooth


If your child has a broken, chipped, or fractured tooth be sure to contact us as soon as possible.
Severe pain or discoloration may be indicators of a dental emergency. A minor chip or fracture may not require an immediate appointment. Only Dr. Ilse Savelli will be able to determine if emergency treatment is necessary.

Knocked-Out Tooth


A knocked-out tooth is a very serious emergency that requires immediate treatment. If for some reason you have trouble reaching us, take your child to urgent care or the emergency room. Re-implantation is most successful if it takes place within an hour of the tooth being knocked out.

Before you visit a physician, be sure to keep the tooth moist at all times. When picking up the tooth, never handle it from the root. If you can, place the tooth back in its socket. If this is too painful, try placing it in a container of milk or clean water.

Loose or Displaced Tooth


A tooth can become loose or displaced due to an injury or trauma. There are two major types of displacement: luxation and extrusion. A luxated tooth remains in the socket but protrudes at an unnatural angle. An extrusion occurs when a tooth has become partly removed from the socket. If the pulp of the tooth is damaged, we may need to perform a root canal.

Soft Tissue Injury


Any trauma to the lips, cheeks, gums, or tongue is considered a soft tissue injury. A severe laceration or cut may require sutures. To slow the bleeding and reduce the swelling you can apply pressure to the injury with a cold compress. You can also gently clean the wound with warm water.

Broken Jaw


The jawbone, or mandible, is one of these easiest bones to damage. If you think your child’s jaw is broken be sure call us immediately, or seek out attention at the emergency room. In the meantime, you can use a cold compress to control the swelling. Depending on the nature and location of the fracture, surgical intervention may be required.

Preventing Injuries


There are several steps you can take to help your child avoid a dental emergency:
•  Use a mouthguard. A mouthguard can be an effective device during sports and other physical activities.
•  Education. Through education, you can stop your child from falling into bad habits, such as using their teeth as scissors and biting their fingernails.
•  Supervision. Younger children like toddlers tend to place objects in their mouths without supervision.
•  Regular checkups. Schedule a routine appointment every six months so we can monitor the development of their teeth and prevent potential emergencies.


Schedule an Emergency Appointment Now!


If your child is in the midst of a dental emergency, you should seek medical care immediately! Call 619-427-1315 to schedule an emergency appointment now!

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Chula Vista Smiles - ILSE Savilli-Castillo DDS, 222 3rd. Ave., Chula Vista, CA 91910 + 619-427-1315 + chulavista-smiles.com + 12/1/2024 + Tags: Pediatric Dentist Chula Vista CA +