When your child is in pain or something unexpected happens to their smile, it can be scary — but knowing what to do in a dental emergency makes all the difference. As parents, quick action and calm decisions can protect your child’s teeth and help them recover faster. Our emergency pediatric dentist near me team at Otter Kids Dentistry is always ready to help families handle sudden dental situations with care and compassion.
Let’s take a look at the five most common pediatric dental emergencies and what you can do before you arrive at the office.
1. Severe Toothaches
A toothache can be more than just discomfort — it’s often a sign that something deeper is wrong, like a cavity, infection, or gum irritation. If your child complains of persistent pain, rinse their mouth with warm water and gently floss to remove any food debris. Avoid placing aspirin on the gums, as it can cause burns.
If the pain continues, call an emergency children’s dentist right away. Prompt care prevents infections from spreading and helps relieve your child’s discomfort quickly.
2. Broken or Chipped Teeth
Children are active — and sometimes accidents happen during play or sports. If your child chips or breaks a tooth, rinse their mouth gently with water and save any broken fragments if possible. Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
Your pediatric dentist near me can determine whether the tooth needs bonding, a crown, or other treatment to restore both function and appearance.
3. Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out tooth can be alarming, but quick action can sometimes save it.
- If it’s a permanent tooth, gently pick it up by the crown (not the root), rinse lightly with water, and try to place it back in the socket. If that’s not possible, store it in milk and head to your dentist immediately.
- If it’s a knocked-out baby tooth, do not attempt to reinsert it. Instead, contact your emergency pediatric dentist near me as soon as possible to check for damage to the surrounding teeth and gums.
Even a knocked out baby tooth can affect alignment or adult tooth development, so a prompt evaluation is essential.
4. Cuts to the Soft Tissues
Falls, sports injuries, or accidents can cause cuts to the lips, tongue, or cheeks. Gently rinse the area with water and apply light pressure using a clean cloth or gauze to control bleeding.
If bleeding doesn’t stop within 10 minutes, visit an emergency children’s dentist or the nearest emergency room for further evaluation.
5. Broken or Loose Braces
Orthodontic emergencies are also common in children. Broken wires or brackets can cause discomfort or injure the inside of the mouth.
Use orthodontic wax to cover sharp edges temporarily and schedule an appointment with your child’s dentist as soon as possible. Never try to cut or remove wires yourself.
How Otter Kids Dentistry Helps During Dental Emergencies
At Otter Kids Dentistry, our compassionate team understands that dental emergencies can be stressful for parents and children alike. That’s why our emergency pediatric dentist near me offers same-day appointments and gentle care designed to comfort young patients while addressing their needs quickly and safely.
We provide clear guidance over the phone before your visit — so you know exactly what steps to take while you’re on your way. From knocked-out teeth to broken braces, we make sure your child receives immediate, effective treatment.
Be Prepared — and Stay Calm
Dental emergencies can happen anytime, but being prepared helps you act quickly and confidently. Keep your pediatric dentist’s contact information handy, and don’t hesitate to call when something feels urgent. With the right care, your child’s smile can stay healthy and strong for years to come.
