5 Common Pediatric Dental Emergencies (and What to Do If One Happens!)

It's common knowledge that most kids are afraid of the dentist. Maybe it's because of the drilling sounds or exposing their mouths to a stranger. Regardless of that fear, it's imperative that they make the visit even if they resist.

Children get into all kinds of situations, and sometimes that means they can damage their teeth.

What is a pediatric dental emergency, though? And how can you tell if something is serious enough for a visit to the dentist in Friendswood, TX?

Here are five of the most common types of pediatric dental emergencies you may encounter.

1. Knocked Out Tooth

One dental emergency for kids that will require a pediatric dentist is if your kid loses a tooth. However, the severity of the problem will depend on a few different factors.

First of all, if the tooth that was knocked out was a baby tooth, then it may not be an issue. These teeth are meant to fall out and it'll just open up space for the permanent one to grow in. The only problem is that if the baby tooth comes out too early, it may cause crowding and cause issues for the tooth yet to come.

If a permanent tooth was knocked out, then it's a bigger problem.

Assuming the tooth was complete and unbroken, then you can replace it in the socket within a half hour. A visit to the pediatric dentist is necessary so they can make sure the root attaches.

You can also keep the tooth in a glass of milk until a dentist can see you.

It's not advised that you try to reattach a tooth that has been broken. The dentist may also need to perform a root canal depending on other factors.

2. Damaged Tooth

Pediatric dental emergencies that require immediate help include a damaged or broken tooth. A chipped or cracked tooth could be the result of anything from physical impact to poor oral hygiene. If you've noticed a damaged tooth, then you'll need to schedule a visit as soon as possible.

Before you head to the dentist, there are a few things you'll need to do.

Rinse out your child's mouth with clean water to make sure there aren't any fragments stuck inside. If there is swelling from an impact, then place a cold compress on the cheek where it happened.

If the tooth fragment has fallen out, then you'll want to take it with you to the dentist. Place it in a moist paper towel inside a plastic bag.

Depending on why the tooth fractured and its state, the pediatric dentist may be able to bond the fragments back together. If not, they may need to use a crown or veneer to restore its original appearance.

3. Mouth Injury

A mouth or face injury is a type of pediatric dental emergency that may require more complicated care.

Something simple like a cut or abrasion on a child's lips or cheek can often be treated at home.

Wash your hands before treating and washing the wound. An over-the-counter antiseptic lotion can help keep away infection while it heals.

More serious injuries like a large gash or broken jaw will need a visit to the local ER. Broken jaws often come with missing or broken teeth as well. Your child may require jaw wiring to keep the jaw secure or surgery.

Even an impact that didn't break anything could cause issues like loosened teeth or bleeding gums. Your pediatric dentist can tell you how to proceed and can even prescribe medication to help deal with any pain.

4. Severe Toothache

One of the signs of a pediatric dental emergency is if your child develops a severe toothache. The main problem with a toothache is that it's almost impossible to diagnose at home.

A broken tooth is more obvious, and sores on your gum stand out. However, a really bad toothache could be a sign of something simple or a severe oral hygiene issue.

For example, grinding your teeth can wear away at their enamel and even cause a crack. That will cause immediate pain that a dentist can solve in a few appointments.

What's more problematic is if the toothache is because of an infection. Infected teeth do not heal on their own, and the problem requires a root canal. After the root canal, your child will also need a crown to stabilize the tooth.

In a worst-case scenario, the tooth may need to be pulled. This is more common if the infection has completely eroded away the tooth past the point of no return.

5. Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is an issue similar to a toothache without the associated immediate danger. It's more of a sign of things to come. You'll notice tooth sensitivity if eating things like ice cream or hot soup hurt your teeth.

One reason you may have more tooth sensitivity is if you've developed a cavity. Cavities are a sign of tooth decay forming in your tooth. It's usually caused by not brushing your teeth enough and ingesting too many sugary foods and drinks.

Another cause of tooth sensitivity is eroded tooth enamel. This can happen if you drink a lot of sodas. You may also lose tooth enamel due to acid reflux, teeth grinding, and dry mouth.

Your dentist can address the problem and let you know how to deal with it. There are also some kinds of toothpaste and mouthwash that can improve your enamel's mineral content.

Don't Ignore Pediatric Dental Emergencies

It's so easy to put off visiting a dentist in Friendswood, TX if there isn't any immediate pain or trauma. However, pediatric dental emergencies can easily develop into something much worse.

Better for your child to get a root canal than get a permanent tooth pulled, after all.

Dentistry 4 Children is here to help your child have a positive experience getting their dental care. Our services include fillings, nerve treatment, emergency dentistry, and more.

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A little girl is sitting in a dental chair being examined by a dentist.

First Aid for Dental Injuries in Kids

By Dentistry 4 Children • March 17, 2025

According to Child Stats, it is estimated that three million kids go to the emergency room for injuries yearly. Dental injuries, in particular, are common in children, especially those who are active in sports, playground activities, or simply exploring their surroundings. Knowing what to do and how to respond to a dental emergency can be hectic if you do not know what to do. But if you act fast and have a plan, you can prevent complications, minimize pain, and even save a tooth. Understanding first aid for dental injuries can help parents and your local family dentist provide immediate care before seeking professional treatment at a trusted pediatric dentist in Pearland . Common Types of Dental Injuries in Kids Children can experience various dental injuries, ranging from minor chips to severe trauma that requires emergency dental care. One of the most frequent injuries is a chipped or broken tooth. This is often caused by falls but can also be due to bike accidents or biting into hard objects. While minor chips may not cause immediate pain, more extensive fractures can expose nerves and lead to significant discomfort. Another serious dental injury is a knocked-out tooth, also known as an avulsed tooth. When a permanent tooth is completely dislodged from the mouth, immediate action is crucial to improve the chances of saving it. In contrast, if a baby tooth is knocked out prematurely, attempting to reinsert it can cause damage to the developing permanent tooth underneath. A loose or displaced tooth is another common issue that can occur due to blunt force trauma. While some cases resolve independently, others require professional dental evaluation to ensure the surrounding structures remain intact. If your child experiences a dental emergency, learning about common pediatric dental emergencies can help you take the proper steps. Tooth intrusion occurs when a tooth is pushed further into the gums due to an impact. This type of injury is more common in younger children whose jawbones are still developing. Tooth intrusion can lead to complications, such as damage to the underlying permanent teeth, making it essential to visit an emergency pediatric dentist in Friendswood for proper assessment. Lastly, injuries to the lips, tongue, or gums often accompany dental trauma. These soft tissue injuries can cause significant bleeding and pain, increasing the risk of infection if not properly treated. Immediate First Aid Steps for Dental Injuries Providing immediate comprehensive oral care for dental injuries can significantly improve the outcome. For a chipped or broken tooth, it is essential to rinse the child's mouth with warm water to remove debris. Applying a cold compress to the affected area can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. If possible, collect any broken fragments and bring them to a dentist. If a permanent tooth is knocked out, locate it and handle it only by the crown, avoiding contact with the root. If the tooth is dirty, rinse it gently with water, but do not scrub or remove any attached tissue. If possible, reinsert the tooth into the socket and have the child bite on a clean cloth to hold it in place. If reinsertion is not feasible, store the tooth in milk or the child's saliva and seek emergency dental care immediately. For a step-by-step guide on managing a knocked-out tooth, check out this helpful resource on handling pediatric dental emergencies . Stabilizing a loose or displaced tooth by having the child bite down gently on a piece of gauze is essential. Avoid repositioning the tooth forcefully, as this could cause additional damage. A child-friendly dentist should assess the injury as soon as possible. Tooth intrusion should be treated with caution. Attempting to reposition the tooth at home is not recommended. Instead, apply a cold compress if the tooth is swelling and schedule an emergency dental visit. Seeking care from a pediatric emergency dentist in Friendswood can ensure the injury is managed appropriately. For soft tissue injuries, such as cuts to the lips, tongue, or gums, applying gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze can help control bleeding. A cold compress can reduce swelling, and rinsing with salt water may help prevent infection. When to Seek Professional Dental Care While minor dental injuries may not require immediate attention from a family dentistry practice, certain signs indicate the need for urgent dental care. Severe pain, swelling, excessive bleeding, or a knocked-out permanent tooth warrant an emergency visit to a dentist. Additionally, any signs of infection, such as: Pus Fever Red streaks near the injury site These should not be ignored. Understanding when to seek professional care can help prevent long-term complications. Parents can find more information on common pediatric dental emergencies . Prevention Tips to Reduce Dental Injuries While accidents are sometimes unavoidable, certain precautions can help minimize the risk of dental injuries in children. Wearing a properly fitted mouthguard during sports and recreational activities provides essential protection against impacts. Childproofing the home by securing furniture edges and installing safety gates can prevent falls that lead to dental trauma. Encouraging children to avoid chewing hard objects like ice, pens, or hard candy can also reduce the likelihood of chipped or broken teeth. Teaching good dental hygiene habits , including brushing and flossing regularly, strengthens teeth and enhances their resilience against injury. Additionally, parents should be prepared for unexpected dental emergencies while traveling. Knowing where to find emergency dental care can be invaluable in an unfamiliar location. If your child experiences a dental emergency away from home, reviewing these tips for handling dental emergencies while traveling can be beneficial. Need a Local Family Dentist? Contact Dentistry 4 Children Understanding first aid for dental injuries in children can make a significant difference in preserving their oral health. By acting quickly and getting affordable dental services, parents and caregivers can reduce pain, prevent complications, and increase the chances of saving an injured tooth. Here at Dentistry 4 Children, we know how scary these accidents can be for children. That is why we do everything possible to provide a safe and supportive local family dentist environment. So contact us today to get your child the help they need.