EMERGENCY

Below you will find an example list of common dental emergencies with basic instructions. We always advise that you call our office at 404-381-1840 for more detailed instructions. We are always available to you. If your child is experiencing headaches, vomiting, nausea or loss of consciousness after an injury, please send them directly to the emergency room for a full evaluation.

If this is a medical emergency we recommend you call 911.

Toothache

Make sure you evaluate the tooth for any lodged food or debris. If the pain is lasting more than a minute, children’s pain medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help to alleviate some of the pain. Call to schedule an evaluation at our office.

Knowing the answers to the following questions will help us to give you the most accurate diagnosis:

  • Does it hurt when eating or drinking?
  • Does it hurt when chewing?
  • Is there any swelling/redness of the face, gum tissue, or both?
  • Is the pain keeping your child up at night?

Cut on Lips, Tongues or Cheeks

Applying ice to injured areas will help to control any swelling. If there is bleeding, apply firm but gentle pressure with a gauze or cloth. Often, there is no need for further treatment, but if bleeding cannot be controlled by simple pressure, call a pediatrician or visit the hospital emergency room as this may be a more serious medical issue.

Knocked out Baby Tooth

Contact our office during business hours. This is not usually an emergency, and in most cases, no treatment is necessary. Children lose up to 20 baby teeth at varying times from the ages of 4-12 years old. However, attempt to locate what is left of the tooth, as it may be only a small portion. Also evaluate the area for any remaining pieces, oftentimes you may see the permanent tooth where the baby tooth was previously located. If you are unable to find the baby tooth after being knocked out, please evaluate your child’s stools and breathing. If any changes are noticed in breathing, visit the emergency room immediately.

Knocked out Permanent Tooth

If possible, find the tooth. Time is very important for these emergencies, and your pediatric dentist should see the child WITHIN 1 HOUR for best chance of success. Hold the tooth by the crown, not by the root. You may GENTLY rinse the tooth with water only. DO NOT clean with soap, scrub or handle the tooth unnecessarily. Inspect the tooth for fractures. If it is sound, try to reinsert it in the socket. If you cannot reinsert the tooth, transport the tooth in a cup containing the patient’s saliva or milk until you can see your dentist.

Chipped/Fractured Baby Tooth

Contact our office for an examination. Try to avoid eating in that area until your child could be examined and soft foods are recommended if possible.

Chipped/Fractured Permanent Tooth

Time is an essential factor here if the nerve of the tooth is exposed; therefore, contact your pediatric dentist immediately. Taking appropriate steps early can prevent infection and reduce the need for extensive dental treatment. If possible, locate and save any broken tooth fragments and bring them with you to the dentist. By transporting the broken pieces in a cup containing the patient’s saliva or milk until you can see the dentist.

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Toothache

Make sure you evaluate the tooth for any lodged food or debris. If the pain is lasting more than a minute, children’s pain medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help to alleviate some of the pain. Call to schedule an evaluation at our office.

Knowing the answers to the following questions will help us to give you the most accurate diagnosis:
- Does it hurt when eating or drinking?
- Does it hurt when chewing?
- Is there any swelling/redness of the face, gum tissue, or both?
- Is the pain keeping your child up at night?