Common Dental Emergencies in Children
The most common situations are a front tooth broken or loosened in a fall, night pain from decay, a lost filling and gum trauma. Trauma to baby teeth should not be neglected as it can affect the underlying permanent tooth bud. Swelling with fever is an emergency in children too.
Baby tooth or permanent tooth?
The approach depends on the tooth type. A fully avulsed baby tooth is not replanted, because replantation can harm the underlying permanent tooth. An avulsed permanent tooth, however, should be brought in milk within the first hour.
First Response for Parents
First calm the child and rinse the mouth with warm water. If there is bleeding, apply gentle pressure with clean gauze. For swelling, hold cold against the cheek. In children, painkiller dosing must be adjusted for age and weight; if unsure, consult us. Bring the broken piece or the knocked-out tooth in milk.
