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Dealing with Dental Accidents
Children are bound to fall once in a while, as they play sports or test their physical prowess. Occasionally they may hit a tooth. Among children ages two to ten, falls account for most dental injuries while lack of preventative measures during sports activities cause most dental accidents among older children and teenagers.
Dr. C. D. Meier, a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist at Children's Dental Centre in Winnipeg advises that, "If your child hits their mouth and their gums are bleeding, pressure should be applied with a moist cloth for few minutes (or until the bleeding stops)". "A frozen juice popsicle can also limit the swelling and has the added benefit of taking your child's mind off the pain".
If a tooth is badly chipped, call your dentist as soon as possible and bring the piece of tooth along if you can find it. Your pediatric dentist can then evaluate whether there are underlying cracks or other damage you can't see. He may also be able to repair the tooth, by patching it with bonding material.
If your child loses a permanent tooth, Dr. Meier recommends finding the tooth and rinsing it gently in cool running water. He adds, "Don't scrub it or you may remove important tissue fragments". "If you can, insert it back in your child's tooth socket and hold it there". "If unable to do so, put the tooth in some milk and take it with you to your dentist who may be able to re-implant it". The Manitoba Dental Association suggests going immediately to your dentist, within 30 minutes if possible.
If a primary tooth is lost, it is also important to see your dentist. Dr. Meier concurs, "Underlying teeth should be checked for damage". "It is also important to ensure that the permanent tooth will have enough space to grow in properly".
As you know, you can't completely prevent accidents, but as a parent you can help. Dr. Meier offers the following precautions.
- Childproof your home.
- Make sure that your child wears a mouth guard when they play contact sports.
- Teach your child to play safely. Be very cautious on waterslides. (2/3 of water slide injuries result in oral rauma).
- Be aware that teeth that protrude as a result of pacifier use or a thumb sucking habit are more vulnerable to dental trauma.
The most important lesson on handling a dental emergency is to see your dentist as soon as possible - time is of the essence.
Children's Dental Centre is a pediatric dental practice that specializes in treating children and adolescents. Children's Dental Centre is conveniently located at 240-1630 Ness Avenue in Madison Square, one block west of Polo Park. Appointments may be made at 668-5437. Referrals are not necessary.
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