Common Issues an Emergency Pediatric Dentist Treats

Common Pediatric Dental Emergencies

An emergency pediatric dentist treats urgent dental problems that need immediate attention. Because kids are active and accidents can happen at any time, parents should watch for dental problems early. Your prompt action can make a big difference in protecting your child’s oral health and smile. Remember, quick intervention and professional care can safeguard a child’s dental health and prevent long-term harm.

Toothache

A toothache is one of the most common reasons parents seek help from an emergency pediatric dentist. It may result from tooth decay, infection, or food trapped between teeth. To start, rinse your child’s mouth clean with warm water and lightly floss to get rid of any debris. Do not place aspirin on the tooth or gums—it can burn the tissue. Use child-appropriate pain relievers only as directed. If the pain continues or if your child experiences swelling, fever, or sensitivity, these may be signs of infection that require urgent dental attention. An emergency pediatric dentist can diagnose the cause, relieve pain, and prevent complications from spreading to other teeth or gums.

Knocked-Out Tooth

A knocked-out tooth, also known as dental avulsion, requires immediate care from an emergency pediatric dentist. If it’s a permanent tooth, handle it carefully by the crown, not the root. If the tooth is dirty, rinse it gently with milk or sterile saline—do not scrub. If only water is available, a brief (≤10-second) rinse is acceptable. If possible, reinsert it into the socket and have your child bite gently on gauze. See a dentist immediately—reimplantation has the best chance of success within 30–60 minutes. This immediate action from parents can significantly increase the chances of saving the tooth. If reinsertion isn’t possible, place the tooth in cold milk (preferred), sterile saline, or a tooth-preservation solution (HBSS). For young children, avoid storing the tooth in the cheek due to a choking risk—use a container with milk or saline instead. For baby teeth, do not reinsert; see an emergency pediatric dentist to check the area and prevent injury to the developing permanent tooth.

Chipped or Broken Tooth

Children often chip or break a tooth during play, sports, or falls. Even without pain, the fracture may expose the tooth’s inner layers, leaving it susceptible to sensitivity or infection. To start, rinse your child’s mouth clean with warm water to remove any particles. Gather any tooth fragments and place them in milk or a clean, sealed container to bring to the dentist. Apply a cold compress to the cheek to help reduce swelling. In order to restore function and appearance, an emergency pediatric dentist will assess the damage, repair the tooth when possible, and recommend the next steps.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries include cuts, bites, or bruises on the lips, tongue, gums, or inside of the cheeks. These injuries can bleed heavily because the mouth has many blood vessels. Begin by rinsing your child’s mouth gently with cool water to clean the area. To stop the bleeding, lightly press with gauze or a clean cloth. To reduce swelling, apply a cool compress to the cheek. If bleeding continues for 10–15 minutes or the wound is deep, contact an emergency pediatric dentist immediately. They can check for additional injuries and help prevent infection or further tissue damage.

Object Stuck Between Teeth

Children sometimes get small objects—like food particles, seeds, or bits of toys—stuck between their teeth. This can cause pain, swelling, or irritation. Try to remove the object gently with dental floss, moving carefully to avoid damaging the gums. Never use sharp tools like needles or toothpicks, as they can injure the gums or push the object deeper. If the object remains stuck or your child complains of persistent pain, an emergency pediatric dentist can safely remove it. They may also check for gum inflammation or early signs of infection, helping your child stay comfortable and avoid unnecessary complications.