What To Do If Your Child Chips or Knocks Out a Tooth

Dealing with a chipped or knocked out tooth may be a rite of passage for adolescents. As for parents, this could be a more of a traumatic for us than our kids. Although you can’t prepare or plan for these things, there are some things you can do if your child chips or knocks out a tooth. The first thing, you should do is to calm down. Honestly, there may be blood, and your child may be pretty upset. If you appear unruffled, you will be able to assess the situation easier and give your child the immediate care he or she needs.

Chipped Tooth

Rinse out your child’s mouth by switching and spitting into a sink.
If you find the tooth remnant, bring it to the dentist, just in case, it can be used
Apply ice or a cold compress to reduce any swelling.
Contact your dentist immediately.
Depending upon the severity of the break you may be seen during regular hours. If the break is severe, you will need attention right away.

Knocked Out Tooth

Baby Tooth

Never try to replant it. Doing so, could actually cause damage to the permanent tooth, or cause an infection in the socket.
Collect the tooth if you locate it, and seek immediate attention, your dentist will want to examine the tooth.

Permanent Tooth

Locate the tooth, being care never to touch the root.
If it is dirty, gently rinse the tooth, never scrubbing.
Use cold water only, never use soap.
If you feel comfortable doing so, insert the tooth back into the socket.
If you do not feel comfortable reinserting the tooth, or there is too much trauma, take the tooth with you, keeping it moist.
According to tho the American Association of Endodontists, depending on your child’s age, and if there is not an excessive amount of blood, he can hold the tooth in his cheek pocket, or safely transport the tooth in milk.

If your child chips or knocks out a tooth the first minutes could be crucial for saving the tooth. Make sure to include your dentist in your contacts on your mobile phone, it could save precious time in an emergency. Contact Tooth Fairy Smiles if you have any other questions.