Kids’ dental emergencies can be scary for both parents and children, but knowing what to do immediately can save a tooth and prevent lasting damage. When accidents happen, kids look to their parents or other adults to let them know what to do. In this guide, we will cover common urgent dental situations and how the team at Dental Town Chicago can help with same-day treatments in the Chicago Area. We offer compassionate emergency dentistry services across our 12 locations to ensure your family gets the care they need when it matters most.
What is a pediatric dental emergency?
Dental emergencies for children typically involve severe pain, trauma to the mouth, or signs of infection that require immediate professional attention. While a loose baby tooth is a normal part of growing up, a permanent tooth that has been knocked out or a severe toothache is not. Recognizing the difference between a routine issue and a situation requiring urgent care is important for parents. If your child is in significant pain or has suffered an injury to the face or jaw, seeking emergency dentistry right away is crucial for their oral health.
Common scenarios that require urgent attention include:
Knocked-out permanent tooth: This requires immediate action to potentially save the tooth.
Severe toothache: Persistent throbbing pain often means there is an infection or a cavity.
Chipped or fractured tooth: Sharp edges can cut the tongue or cheek, and broken teeth can also leave the nerve and tooth pulp exposed, which can lead to severe pain and infections.
Abscess or swelling: A pimple-like bump on the gums or facial swelling might also indicate a serious infection.
What should I do if my child knocks out a permanent tooth?
A baby tooth getting knocked out is usually not an emergency, unless there is an accompanying injury or other worrying symptoms like severe pain. If a permanent tooth is knocked out, getting to a dentist quickly is essential. First, locate the tooth and pick it up carefully by the crown (the part that is usually visible outside the gums), never by the root. If it is dirty, rinse it gently with milk or water, but do not scrub it or remove any attached tissue.
Try to gently insert the tooth back into the socket and have your child bite down on a clean gauze or cloth to hold it in place. Of course, if your child is younger and cannot hold the tooth in their mouth, you can place the tooth in a container of milk or in a dental solution (many first aid kits include dental solution for saving teeth). Do not put the tooth in water, as this can cause the living tissue to die. The best chance of reimplanting an adult tooth is when patients are seen within an hour of the tooth getting knocked out.
How can I manage my child’s toothache at home?
When your child complains that they have a toothache, your first step should be to clean the area thoroughly to ensure there isn’t a piece of food causing the pain. Sometimes a chunk of a hard food, like a nut, can get wedged between teeth and cause soreness. Have them rinse their mouth with warm salt water and gently floss around the sore tooth to dislodge any debris. You can also apply a cold compress to the outside of the cheek to help reduce any swelling or discomfort.
Over-the-counter pain medication can also provide temporary relief. While these measures offer some relief, a persistent toothache usually indicates an underlying problem like a cavity or infection. If your child’s toothache is consistent, recurring, or severe, you should schedule a visit with us soon so we can diagnose the cause and provide the necessary treatment.
Where can I find emergency dental care for kids in Chicago?
Finding reliable care quickly is the priority when your child is in pain, and knowing where to go beforehand reduces stress. Dental Town Chicago is proud to serve families throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs with accessible, high-quality emergency care.
With our 12 convenient offices, we are always ready to assist families. Our teams are experienced in handling kids’ dental emergencies with a gentle touch to keep your child calm. Don’t hesitate to call us if you aren’t sure if your situation is an emergency. We would be happy to answer questions and help you out.
Contact Dental Town Chicago for Urgent Care
If your child is experiencing a dental injury or severe pain, prompt action is the best way to protect their smile. We are dedicated to providing fast, effective relief and expert care for families across the Chicago area. Contact Dental Town Chicago today to schedule an emergency appointment and let us help your child feel better fast.