Emergency dentistry care to the rescue to “save” your child’s smile!

As children grow more curious, have a thirst for exploration (even with limited motor skills), and eventually engage in sports and other physical activities, they may be at risk of dental injuries. We work with families to provide solutions to minimize the risk of these traumas and other emergencies, which come in various forms. Even with the best planning, we can’t predict all accidents. Let Orion Dental Specialties in Cypress, Texas, be your guide to restored health and fast and appropriate relief from pain and other symptoms that can be distressing both to your child and you as a parent.

When the “worst” happens

For starters, step back. Take a deep breath. Yes, it can be upsetting to see your child in pain or with other scary symptoms. We empathize. But it is essential to contact us without delay, especially when a tooth may be partly or wholly dislodged from its socket. Moments matter and can mean the difference between saving and losing a tooth for good.

• If your child has bitten so hard that their lips, tongues, or other tissues are bleeding, gently clean the affected areas with water and apply a cold compress. This could be a soft towel or cloth moistened with water. This step helps to manage swelling and pain. Call us immediately so we can speak with you and determine the extent of the injury and appropriate next steps.
• If food particles or another object has been chewed and is stuck between the teeth, carefully remove these particles or substances with an easy-glide floss. Do not try to remove it with a toothpick or other sharp tools that could cause additional injury, may break off in the mouth, and even present a choking or swallowing hazard.
• For broken or cracked teeth, gather together any pieces and store them in a sterile container. The same step applies to any fillings or other restorations that may have broken off. Be sure to rinse your child’s mouth with warm (not hot) water. Again, the application of a cold compress to the affected area can help when your child is in pain and the area is swollen.
• Teeth that are loose or have been fully dislodged should be removed. They pose too much risk of being swallowed or inhaled by children. The tooth should be placed in a preservative such as a Save-A-Tooth™ solution (if you have it) or milk. The proteins in milk help to maintain a healthy pH balance and the health of the root surfaces. When removing and storing the tooth, take great care not to damage the attached tissues further. With the proper response to the injury and prompt treatment by our team, we can prevent permanent tooth loss!

Everything from “child-proofing” your home to maintaining dental check-ups and getting your child a custom sports mouthguard can help avoid the trauma, stress, time, and costs associated with pediatric dental emergencies. Call Orion Dental Specialties in Cypress, TX, at (832) 906-8313 with questions and to learn more.