What To Do If Your Child Knocks Out A Tooth!
What To Do If Your Child Knocks Out A Tooth
If your child knocks out his or her tooth, it can be a pretty scary situation for both you and your young one. What do you do, and how can you prevent any further damage to your child’s teeth? We’ve got a few simple steps for you to follow to ensure your child keeps their big, beautiful smile!
Is it a baby tooth?
If it’s a baby tooth that’s been knocked out, don’t worry – the situation is not quite as severe as with a permanent tooth. You still need to bring your child in to the dentist to have them examined, but there probably won’t be any treatment required.
The dentist might decide to use a spacer to ensure that any teeth coming in don’t fill up the gap caused by the missing tooth, which could create further problems later on in your child’s life. What you definitely do not want to do is to try to re-insert the tooth back into the socket – you could damage any permanent teeth under the gum line. Provide pain relief in the form of over the counter medication and cold packs to make sure your child stays as comfortable as possible until their dentist appointment.
Is it a permanent or adult tooth?
If your child has knocked out a permanent tooth, get them in to see the dentist immediately. Time is of the essence! Make sure you search the area thoroughly until you find the tooth, and then follow these simple steps:
- Only handle the tooth by the crown (the exposed part of the tooth) and gently rinse it with water. Do not scrub it or use anything else to clean it as you may damage it further.
- You can either a) re-insert it back into the socket and hold it in place with gauze, or b) place it in a glass of milk for transportation to the dentist. Do not wrap it in a serviette or place it in glass of water!
- Call your dentist immediately – you need to act very quickly if you want to save the tooth. After hours care is available if you need it.
- If you can’t locate the tooth, there is a chance your child may have swallowed it. You might need to contact your child’s doctor and have an x-ray performed
If there’s any facial swelling or pain, you can use cold packs and over the counter medication to make your child more comfortable until they see the dentist.
If you child knocks out a tooth, don’t panic! No matter how much blood they lose or pain they’re in, you experienced dentist will have a solution.