Most trips to a dentist involve routine care, and certain dental conditions can sometimes wait to be treated. However, with a dental emergency, treatment can’t wait. With prompt treatment, a dental emergency may be resolved quickly so that it doesn’t cause additional problems. You should also know that not all dental emergencies will put your child’s life or adult tooth at risk, and the emergency may still be resolved without any lasting complications if you aren’t able to go to the dentist’s office right away.
How to Manage a Dental Emergency the Best Way Possible
If possible, you should contact your child’s dentist immediately to find out if you can get your child in to see the dentist quickly. You shouldn’t wait to contact the dentist if the emergency involves heavy bleeding, infection, or uncontrollable pain, as these problems could worsen and negatively impact other areas of your child’s health.
When you contact the dentist’s office, you should be specific about the dental emergency. If it is an injury include how it happened, when it happened, and if any medication or prescriptions have been given. Explain any mouth, jaw, or facial injuries that require urgent attention and if your child’s eating habits have been affected.
If the situation is considered to be a dental emergency, you and your child will likely be able to come into our office the same day, or within 48 hours. If we are unavailable to see your child in a timely fashion, your child’s pediatrician or the local hospital emergency room can also help.
Types of Dental Emergencies
A dental emergency usually doesn’t involve something as simple as a cavity. When you contact the dentist’s office and explain your child’s incident, you’ll be informed of whether the occurrence is classified as a true dental emergency or if the issue can wait a little longer to be resolved. Common dental emergencies often include:
- Intense tooth pain (often accompanied by swelling)
- Heavy bleeding
- Tooth abscesses
- Avulsed (knocked-out) teeth
- Orthodontic damage
Sprout Kids Dentistry is Here to Help
If your child ever experiences a dental emergency, you can rest assured that Sprout Kids Dentistry will be able to provide the quality care your child needs. Sprout Kids Dentistry is the number one choice for pediatric dentistry in the Boston area and we will do everything possible to ensure your child is taken care of. Whether you’re looking for a first consultation or need more immediate help, feel free to contact our Quincy, MA office at 617-934-6339 or use our online scheduling form.
Dr. Michelle Anderson is a pediatric dentist board certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.
