We are here for you at Shore Children’s Dentistry, especially during emergencies.
It is very important to be prepared in case your child has an emergency. Even though we wish that they wouldn’t, emergencies do happen. Being educated and knowing what to do in an emergency can be the difference between losing and saving a tooth. You also need to know your dentist’s phone number.
You need to contact us right away if you are having an emergency! If we are not open, go to the nearest emergency center.
If your child loses a permanent tooth, it is important to keep it wet until you get to the dentist. If possible, place it back into the socket. If that is too painful, have your child keep it between his or her cheek and gums or place it in milk to try to save it. Please do not put the tooth in your child’s mouth if you are concerned that he or she might swallow it.
In the case of a cracked tooth or bitten tongue or lip, always have your child rinse out his or her mouth with warm water. A warm compress will help reduce swelling. If your child has something stuck in his or her teeth, gently use floss to get it out. You shouldn’t try to remove it with something sharp. To avoid Reye’s syndrome, children should not be given aspirin for pain.
Children should always wear a mouthguard during sports and other physical activities to protect their teeth. They should avoid chewing hard food like hard candy, ice, and popcorn kernels. These foods can break teeth. Both children and adults should use scissors instead of their teeth to cut or tear things.
If you have a dental emergency, contact us immediately at (732) 775-1492.