Injuring the mouth, gums, or teeth can be both traumatic and painful for young children. Some injuries, such as pain or blistering from hot foods or liquids, can be minor and may not require a dentist trip. Other injuries may be more severe and constitute a pediatric dental emergency. Oral injuries are common in children, especially those who are active or play sports. Many athletic activities require children to wear mouth guards to prevent injuries, but these devices are not 100% effective. If your child gets hit in the mouth with a ball, bat, or even another child, injuries can occur.
If your child chips, breaks or loses a tooth, it may be best to seek help from a pediatric dentist. Your child’s dentist will determine how to repair an injured tooth or replace a lost one.
If your child has a traditional metal or clear braces, an injury to the mouth may cause unbearable pain, bleeding, broken wires, or loose brackets. All these conditions can cause discomfort or keep your child from eating or drinking normally.
Many things can cause a child to have a toothache or painful gums. Poor oral hygiene and inadequate nutrition are the leading causes of tooth decay and loss in children. However, if your child’s pain results from trauma to the mouth or gums, you should get advice from a pediatric dentist. Some pain may require medication or even indicate a serious or life-threatening situation.
Although not as common in children, some injuries to the mouth could result in the loss of dental fillings or crowns. If left untreated, your child could be at risk for infection or losing the tooth. To prevent this, call your pediatric dentist to get further advice.
Less Fear, More Comfort
A lot of people fear going to the dentist. Some people have had unpleasant experiences in the dentist’s chair, such as feeling pain, having adverse reactions to medications, or having a seemingly unempathetic doctor or staff. It’s even more difficult for children who have anxiety and fear surrounding a dental emergency. Because of this, it’s important to find a pediatric dentist who is friendly and approachable and can make you and your child feel comfortable. Your pediatric dentist should create a warm and positive environment so that your child overcomes his or her fears surrounding dental visits and looks forward to the appointment.
When your child has a dental emergency, a pediatric dentist is specially trained to take care of your child’s unique needs. Sometimes, this may involve using sedation to help your child relax and make his or her appointment less stressful.
Surgery for a Pediatric Dental Emergency
Some injuries and trauma to the mouth can cause damage so severe that they require emergency surgery. Often, surgery is necessary to save a tooth and prevent further damage. For children, the idea of surgery can be scary. It might involve needles or medications that make them feel sick. It may also mean time away from school, friends, and sports. Specialists trained in endodontics can perform emergency procedures such as root canals, crown placements, or one of many other treatments designed to save and preserve a child’s tooth.
Get Help From Lovett Dental Northside
Dental emergencies can happen at any time and when we least expect it. If your child has had a serious injury resulting in damage to the teeth, gums, or jaw, it may be time to seek help. Here at Lovett Dental Northside, we offer several services to help protect your child’s smile. Some of these include:
To lessen the chances of permanent damage or tooth loss, call the professionals at Lovett Dental Northside at 713-691-5551. In case of an emergency, we will see you the same day, and we welcome walk-ins.
