Young children are prone to accidents, sometimes causing them to chip a tooth. It’s a common childhood injury and nothing to panic over. Whether it's from a wayward baseball or an unexpected fall, it's essential to stay calm if your child chips a tooth. Here are the steps you should take.
What to Do If Your Child Chips a Tooth
Taking the proper steps after your child chips a tooth can make the situation better for you both. It can also help preserve their teeth and their smile. If your child has chipped a tooth, here is what you should do:
- Contact the Dentist: Call your child's dentist as soon as possible. The dentist will examine the chip and determine the best course of action.
- Rinse Their Mouth: Rinse your child's mouth with warm water to reduce the risk of infection.
- Apply a Cold Compress: Use a cold compress to reduce swelling and pain. The cold slows blood flow, minimizes inflammation, numbs the area, and helps stop any bleeding.
- Control Bleeding: If your child is bleeding actively, apply pressure with a clean cloth, such as gauze, a washcloth, or tissues. If bleeding continues after applying pressure, contact your child's dentist immediately.
- Save the Tooth Fragment: If possible, store the chipped piece in a container filled with milk or your child's saliva.
When you call the dentist, explain the situation, including how the tooth was chipped, if the child is in pain, and when the event happened. If possible, bring the tooth fragment to the appointment. Depending on the severity, the dentist may smooth the edges, fill in the chipped part, or reimplant a knocked-out permanent tooth if addressed quickly. However, if the chip is significant, a tooth extraction might be recommended.
Even a tiny chip or crack can have lasting effects on your child's oral health, so always check with the dentist for the next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chipped Teeth
Is a Chipped Tooth a Dental Emergency in a Child?
Not all chipped teeth require emergency dental care. However, call your dentist immediately if the tooth is visibly cracked from top to bottom or if your child has uncontrollable bleeding, pain, or swelling. If the tooth is simply white or white with brown or yellow, it typically isn't an emergency.
Is a Root Canal Necessary for My Child's Chipped Tooth?
If a permanent tooth is chipped, there is always a risk of infection. Signs include pain, swelling in the mouth or throat, and bleeding gums. If the infection reaches the root, antibiotics may not be effective, and a root canal might be needed to save the tooth. Your child's dentist will evaluate the situation and recommend the best options.
Questions about Your Child’s Teeth? Contact ABQ Pediatric Dentistry Today
If your child has chipped a tooth or has other concerning dental complaints or symptoms, our professional dental staff is here for you. Remember to remain calm and contact us right away.
We can be reached at 505-888-3520 or online.