Paediatric Emergencies
Injuries to children's teeth are stressful for both children and their parents. It is best to contact your dentist immediately should your child need urgent dental treatment. Prompt treatment leads to better chances of treating and saving your child's teeth.
Toothache
Rinse your child's mouth with lukewarm water and gently apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Never apply heat or aspirin directly on the tooth or gums — aspirin is acidic and may cause burns. Over-the-counter pain medication, adjusted to your child's age and weight, will help relieve pain and discomfort. Book an appointment with your dentist immediately.
If your child has something lodged in between the teeth, gently remove it using dental floss. Do not use any sharp tool or metal to remove it.
Broken, chipped or knocked-out tooth
Find the tooth and rinse it with clean water. Be careful not to touch it by the root; handle it by the crown only. Do not use soap to clean it. If possible, put it back in its socket and gently hold it steady with a clean cloth. If you are unable to do so, place it in a clean container with cold water or milk. Do not wrap it in tissue or a cloth — the tooth should not be allowed to dry. Your child should visit the dentist at the earliest opportunity to save the tooth.
Loose tooth
A loose tooth should be removed to avoid your child swallowing or choking on it. Encourage your child to remove it themselves — only they know how much discomfort they can stand.
Broken jaw
Use a cold compress to reduce swelling. Your child might need immediate medical attention — head to the hospital as soon as you can. Severe blows to the head can be life-threatening.
Avoiding dental injuries
The best approach to dental injuries is to avoid them. Prevent toothache through regular brushing and flossing, and avoid giving children hard foods to chew on. Have them wear protective gear, including a mouth guard, if they play contact sports. Always use car seats and require seatbelts for your children. Childproof your house and keep the floors dry to avoid falls. Regular dental check-ups will help determine additional preventive strategies suited for your child.