Does Your Child Need Emergency Dentistry? Part Two
Even if you know your child needs to visit the dentist as soon as possible, due to a dental emergency, that doesn’t mean there is nothing you can do in the meantime. In fact, there are likely a few simple steps you can take to help preserve your child’s damaged tooth and to make sure their restorative dental treatment is as effective as possible. Just remember, your most important job, as a parent, is to reassure your child that everything is going to be okay, and to let them know the dentist is going to help.
- If a tooth has been dislodged, first rinse it gently with warm water, and then place it in milk or salt water, which can help preserve the tooth’s root during transport. Just make sure you remember to bring it to the pediatric dentist’s office, and that you don’t damage the tooth’s root during rinsing.
- In the case of a broken tooth, gather any pieces you can find and place them in a sealed container to bring with you.
- A cold compress or ice pack can often help with swelling, and to alleviate discomfort. A children’s dosage of over-the-counter pain medicine might also be helpful. Stick with the brand and dosage recommended by your child’s physician.
- If there is bleeding, use a clean cloth or gauze to apply gentle pressure. If this doesn’t cause the bleeding to stop, you should call your dentist or pediatrician to see if an E.R. visit is warranted.