What Should I Do If My Child Falls and Knocks Out a Permanent Tooth?
First, remain calm. Locate the tooth and pick it up by the chewing surface. Do not touch the root. If the tooth is not dirty or broken, try to reinsert it into the empty socket in your child’s mouth. If you can reinsert it, have your child hold the tooth in place by biting on a clean piece of cloth or gauze and come directly to one of our offices.
If you cannot reinsert the tooth (or if it is dirty or broken), put the tooth in a glass of milk. Bring it and your child to one of our greater Atlanta-area offices immediately.
Chipped or Broken Tooth
Even if the damaged tooth is a baby tooth, please head to one of our offices right away. Once a tooth has become chipped or broken, bacteria can enter the tooth’s pulp or nerve and cause an infection. One of our dentists will need to evaluate the damage and seal the enamel to keep bacteria out and help eliminate the chance of infection.
To preserve the piece of broken tooth, put it in a glass of milk and bring it with you. In some cases, the broken piece can be reattached in our office.
If the area is bleeding, apply direct pressure on the bleeding area using a clean cloth. Reduce swelling with a cold compress or a popsicle. Give your child an appropriate dose of acetaminophen or ibuprofen to help ease the pain.
Cut/Bitten Tongue, Lip or Cheek
A cut or bitten tongue, lip or cheek can certainly be painful. It can lead to bleeding, swelling and discomfort. In the event, apply direct pressure to the wound to stop the bleeding. If there is swelling, apply a cold compress, or a popsicle works just as well. Finally, give your child acetaminophen or ibuprofen to ease any discomfort.
Toothache
Toothaches are no fun and are disruptive to your child’s quality of life. Have your child rinse with warm, salt water to soothe the ache. If you notice any swelling, apply a cold compress directly to the affected area. Give your child acetaminophen or ibuprofen for any pain or discomfort. Even if the pain subsides, visit one of our greater Atlanta offices as soon as possible to rule out any concerns.
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