Pediatric Dental Emergencies

Toothache

Clean the area around the sore tooth thoroughly. Rinse the mouth vigorously with warm salt water or use dental floss to dislodge trapped food or debris. DO NOT place aspirin on the gum or on the aching tooth. If face is swollen, apply a cold compress. Take Acetaminophen for pain and see Dr. Parker as soon as possible.

Cut/Bitten Tongue, Lip or Cheek

Apply ice to bruised areas. If there is bleeding, apply a firm but gentle pressure with clean gauze or cloth. If bleeding does not stop after 15   minutes or it cannot be controlled by simple pressure, call Dr. Parker's office or take the child to a hospital emergency room.

Broken Tooth

Rinse dirt from injured area with warm water. Place cold compresses over the face in the area of the injury. Locate and save any broken tooth fragments. Immediate dental attention is necessary.

Knocked Out Permanent Tooth

Find the tooth.  Handle the tooth by the top (crown), not the root portion. You may rinse the tooth, but DO NOT clean or handle the tooth unnecessarily. Try to reinsert it in its socket.  Have the child hold the tooth in place by biting on a clean gauze or cloth. If you cannot reinsert the tooth, transport the tooth in a cup containing milk or water.  See Dr. Parker IMMEDIATLY! Time is a critical factor in saving the tooth.

Possible Broken Jaw

If a fractured jaw is suspected, try to keep the jaws from moving by using a towel, tie or handkerchief, then take the child to the nearest hospital emergency room.

Bleeding After Baby Tooth Falls Out

Fold and pack a clean gauze or cloth over the bleeding area. Have the child bite on the gauze with pressure for 15 minutes. This may be repeated once; if bleeding persists, call Dr. Parker.

Cold/Canker Sores

Many children occasionally suffer from "cold" or "canker" sores. Usually, over-the-counter preparations give relief. Because some serious diseases may begin as sores, it is important to have a dental evaluation if sores persist.

Sensitive Teeth

These are not uncommon and can be a sign of anything from a sinus headache to more serious problems such as teeth grinding, cavities, loose fillings or gum disease. Whether pain lasts for a short time and is caused by hot or cold elements, or if it lasts longer, have your child examined by Dr. Parker.

3700 West Robinson, Suite 102
Norman, Oklahoma 73072
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