Dental Emergencies

Treating knocked out teeth

Find the tooth and pick it up by the crown (the part of the tooth that’s seen in the mouth, not the root). If it is a baby tooth, give it to the tooth fairy (you can do damage to the next tooth if you try and replace it!) If the tooth is clean, place it straight back in its socket (hole). If the tooth is dirty, wash it for a few seconds in milk and place it back in its socket. If you can’t replace the tooth, place it in a glass of milk. Get your child to the dentist immediately with the tooth.

Children’s first aid (without permanent teeth)

Wash any wound with clean running water. Stop bleeding by placing pressure to the injured area with gauze or cotton wool for 5 minutes. See your dentist. Lost baby teeth are usually not replaced because this may cause damage to the adult teeth.

If a tooth is chipped or broken with trauma

Occasionally the dentist is able to “glue” the tooth fragment back into place. Find the tooth fragment and place it into water. Contact the dental surgery.

Assistance with injury prevention

Look for playgrounds with a safe surface. Wood chips, sand or shredded rubber are good. Avoid asphalt and concrete. Keep chairs and other furniture away from windows. Use safety gates to keep toddlers away from stairs. Don’t use baby walkers. Use safety belts to restrain your child in shopping carts. Stay close to the cart while you shop.

More information on Dental Trauma