As a parent, you always want to keep your child safe and healthy. However, accidents can happen. And when they do, knowing how to handle them is important. Dental emergencies are one such example. They can initially seem scary for both you and your child. See what five common dental emergencies occur in children, so you can know how to handle them as you book a visit to your local pediatric dentist in Calgary.
5 Dental Emergencies Requiring a Pediatric Dentist in Calgary
#1: Broken or Knocked-Out Tooth
In pediatric dentistry in Calgary, one of the most common dental emergencies is a broken or knocked-out tooth. Naturally, this is the case since children can easily get into an accident or play a sport that could cause it. If your child has a broken tooth, try to find the broken piece and bring it to your pediatric dentist in Calgary. On the other hand, if the tooth has been knocked out, rinse it gently with water and try to reinsert it into the socket. If you can’t reinsert the tooth, put it in a container of milk or saliva and bring it to the dentist.
#2: Toothache
No child likes going through a toothache. Regarding toothaches, anyone in pediatric dentistry in Calgary knows various factors that can cause them. These include the following:
- Cavities
- Infection
- Injury
If your child is experiencing a toothache, rinse their mouth with warm salt water and use a cold compress to reduce swelling. You can also give them over-the-counter pain medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Make sure to schedule an appointment with the dentist as soon as possible to identify and treat the underlying cause of the toothache.
#3: Cut or Bitten Lip or Tongue
Children are prone to accidents, and a cut or bitten lip or tongue is common. If your child has a cut or bitten lip or tongue, clean the area gently with a damp cloth and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. If the bleeding doesn’t stop after a few minutes or the cut is deep, seek medical attention immediately.
#4: Object Stuck in Teeth
Children often put small objects in their mouths. Sometimes those objects can get stuck between their teeth. If your child has an object stuck in their teeth, try to remove it with dental floss or a toothbrush. Don’t use sharp or pointed objects to try to remove them, as this can cause injury. If you can’t remove it or your child is experiencing pain or discomfort, seek dental attention.
#5: Broken Braces or Wires
If your child wears braces, broken brackets or wires can cause discomfort and pain. If a wire is sticking out and causing irritation, try to push it back into place using the eraser end of a pencil. You can also cover the wire with orthodontic wax to reduce discomfort. If a bracket is broken, leave it in place and cover it with wax until you can see the orthodontist.
Preventing Dental Emergencies From a Pediatric Dentist in Calgary
While some dental emergencies are unavoidable, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of dental injuries. Encourage your child to wear a mouthguard when playing sports or participating in other physical activities. Teach your child to avoid chewing on hard objects, such as pencils or ice, which can damage their teeth. Finally, ensure your child practices good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
Visiting a dentist shouldn’t be a scary experience for children, and Happy Trails Children’s Dentistry is here to make sure that children feel safe and excited about their regular checkups. Happy Trails is a professional pediatric dentistry proudly serving south Calgary, and we have a goal of creating an inviting and comfortable space for children to receive the best care available. With our fantastic dentist, Dr. Sam, our young patients in Calgary will always have a positive dental experience!