Emergency Pediatric Dentistry

It is natural for kids to be energetic and adventurous. Sometimes that spiritedness leads to a visit to the emergency room. But in the case of a dental emergency it can be difficult to know who to call.

What is Emergency Pediatric Dentistry?

Emergency pediatric dentistry specializes in urgent care for children in the case of trauma or infection. So what does this mean for you as a parent? This means that your child will receive critical care regardless of the time of day or night.

Emergency pediatric dentistry is created to quickly relieve your child of any pain that may be caused from trauma, toothaches and abscesses. Emergency dentists have considerable training in pain management, tooth repair and removal and treatment of dental infections. Emergency dentists make every effort to see your child in the shortest delay, and work to keep them relaxed and comfortable during the procedure.

What is considered a pediatric dental emergency?

The most common causes of emergency pediatric dentistry are trauma and infections. But any dental issue that could jeopardize the eventual health of the tooth should be considered a dental emergency. Severe pain and excessive bleeding should be immediately addressed.  Click here for more info.

Young Dentistry for Children has considerable experience in Emergency Pediatric Dentistry. Here is a recent review from Sandra, a first time mother and dental emergency patient:

“I had an extraordinary visit with this office, and Dr. Howe. My toddler needed emergent care, I had already taken him to the E.R, then a scheduled appointment at children’s hospital dentistry, after a run around between both as a first time mom experiencing a traumatic event with my toddler & his two front teeth I still felt uneasy after both of the professional opinions I was given. Neither the first nor the second handled the screaming toddler as well as this office, did. They stayed late and got me in knowing I felt it was urgent. Something as a mother is hard to find. Every other office I called tried to schedule us out to the end of the week. Dr. Howe and staff made that possible for me. The staff and Dr. Howe were professional, caring & realistic. I left knowing how to help care for my child’s new needs, I left knowing what to watch out for & as a parent himself I know he felt my worry. The explanation throughout the appointment put my anxiety to rest. I really am thankful for this visit. My insurance wasn’t accepted and I paid out of pocket but it was worth every penny. Thank you again to all of the staff here at Young Dentistry. In what could have turned into a total mom melt down. I left with relief.”

If you think you have an emergency and are in need of emergency pediatric dentistry, please reach out to us at (303) 280-9036 in Westminster or at (303) 604-0710 in Louisville.   We’re here to help in the shortest delay!

Types of Common Pediatric Dental Emergencies

When it comes to dental emergencies, children are particularly susceptible due to their active lifestyles and their still-developing teeth and jaws. At Young Dentistry for Children, our team of skilled pediatric dentists is prepared to handle a variety of urgent dental issues. Here are some common types of pediatric dental emergencies that we frequently encounter:

1. Toothaches: Tooth pain can be caused by food particles trapped between teeth, tooth decay, or infections. It is important to clean the area using warm water and to gently floss to remove any trapped particles. If the pain persists, contact our emergency pediatric dentist immediately.
2. Knocked-Out Tooth (Avulsed Tooth): If your child’s permanent tooth has been knocked out, find the tooth and, if possible, gently rinse it without scrubbing the root. Attempt to reinsert it in the socket or, if that’s not possible, place it in a container of milk or the child’s saliva. Time is critical in this situation, so see a dentist immediately.
3. Chipped or Fractured Teeth: If your child chips or breaks a tooth, rinse their mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Collect any broken tooth fragments you can find. A fracture can often extend to the inner layers of the tooth, which are sensitive and vulnerable to damage, so prompt treatment is crucial.
4. Dental Concussion: A tooth that has not been knocked out but has been hit with significant force may change color, indicating a dental concussion. Monitor the tooth closely and consult with our Westminster children’s dentist for an assessment.
5. Object Caught in Teeth: For objects stuck in the teeth, use floss to gently remove it. Do not use sharp or pointed instruments. If the object does not come out easily, call our office for further instructions.
6. Lost Dental Filling or Crown: If a crown or filling falls out, keep it in a safe place, such as a Ziplock bag, and avoid letting your child eat on that side of the mouth. Dental wax or sugar-free gum can temporarily cover the area, but it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible to properly restore the tooth.

What Parents Should Do on the Way to the Dentist

Immediate action can often prevent further damage and help ensure the best possible outcome in a dental emergency. Here’s what parents should do while on the way to our emergency pediatric dentist:

• Keep Calm: Your calm demeanor can help reduce the anxiety your child may feel during a dental emergency.
• Handle Tooth with Care: If dealing with a knocked-out permanent tooth, handle it by the crown, not the root, to minimize damage.
• Manage Pain: For pain control, administer an appropriate dose of children’s over-the-counter pain reliever. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gums or the aching tooth. Do not use numbing agents, such as Orajel.
• Control Bleeding: If there is bleeding, use a piece of gauze or a clean cloth to apply gentle pressure to the area.
• Prepare for the Dentist Visit: Bring any tooth fragments or lost dental appliances with you. It also helps to have dental insurance information handy.

At Young Dentistry for Children, located both in Louisville and Westminster, CO, our experienced team is ready to assist with any pediatric dental emergency. Remember, prompt action and immediate care are critical in handling dental emergencies effectively.