Dental emergencies involving children are stressful for both kids and parents. At The Dental Difference in Brick, NJ, Dr. Mosmen provides same-day emergency care for children experiencing dental trauma, pain, or injury.
When your child has a dental emergency, quick action and professional care can make the difference between saving and losing a tooth. We’re here to help.
Common Pediatric Dental Emergencies
Children are naturally active and curious, which puts them at risk for dental injuries and emergencies.
Common emergencies we treat include:
- Knocked-out teeth, both primary and permanent
- Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth
- Teeth pushed out of position or jammed into the gums
- Objects stuck between teeth
- Severe toothaches or dental pain
- Injuries to the lips, tongue, or gums
- Lost or damaged fillings or crowns
- Dental infections or abscesses
If your child experiences any of these situations, contact our office immediately. We’ll guide you through first aid steps and get your child in as quickly as possible.
What To Do For A Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out permanent tooth is a true dental emergency. Time is critical for successful reimplantation.
If your child’s permanent tooth is knocked out:
- Find the tooth and handle it by the crown only, never the root
- Rinse it gently with water if it’s dirty, but don’t scrub or remove any attached tissue
- Try to reinsert the tooth into the socket if possible and have your child hold it in place
- If reinsertion isn’t possible, keep the tooth moist in milk, saliva, or saline solution
- Get to our office within 30 minutes for the best chance of saving the tooth
For a knocked-out primary tooth, do not attempt to reinsert it. Contact our office for guidance, but reimplantation of baby teeth is typically not recommended as it can damage the developing permanent tooth beneath.
Managing Broken & Injured Teeth
Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth require prompt professional attention to prevent further damage and infection.
First aid for broken teeth:
- Rinse your child’s mouth with warm water
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling
- Save any broken pieces you can find
- Give age-appropriate pain medication if needed
- Call our office immediately
Even minor chips should be evaluated. What looks small on the surface may involve deeper damage to the tooth structure or nerve.
Managing Pain & Swelling At Home
While waiting to see Dr. Mosmen, there are steps you can take at home to keep your child comfortable.
To manage pain and swelling:
- Rinse the mouth gently with warm salt water
- Apply a cold compress to the outside of the face in 10-minute intervals
- Give acetaminophen or ibuprofen according to package directions for your child’s age and weight
- Avoid aspirin, which can increase bleeding
- Have your child avoid chewing on the affected side
These measures provide temporary relief but are not substitutes for professional care. Always follow up with our office for proper evaluation and treatment.
When To Seek Immediate Care
Some dental emergencies require urgent attention, while others can wait until regular office hours.
Seek immediate care if your child has:
- A knocked-out permanent tooth
- Severe, uncontrolled bleeding
- Significant facial swelling, especially near the eye or under the jaw
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Signs of infection, including fever, swelling, or pus
- Trauma to the jaw or face
- Severe pain that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter medication
For life-threatening situations involving breathing difficulties, severe bleeding, or loss of consciousness, go directly to the nearest emergency room.
Preventing Pediatric Dental Injuries
While not all dental emergencies are preventable, many common injuries can be avoided with proper precautions.
To protect your child’s teeth:
- Ensure your child wears a custom mouthguard during sports and high-impact activities
- Childproof your home by securing furniture and removing hazards
- Supervise young children during play and mealtime
- Teach children not to chew on hard objects like ice or pen caps
- Address habits like thumb-sucking that can affect tooth alignment
- Maintain regular dental checkups to catch and treat problems early
Custom mouthguards are especially important for children involved in sports. They’re more comfortable and protective than store-bought options and can prevent serious injuries.
What To Expect During An Emergency Visit
When you bring your child in for emergency care, Dr. Mosmen will evaluate the injury, take x-rays if needed to assess internal damage, provide immediate pain relief and stabilization, treat the injury with the most appropriate and conservative approach, and discuss long-term treatment needs if additional care is required.
Dr. Mosmen’s calm, patient demeanor helps anxious children feel safe during stressful situations. If your child needs sedation to remain comfortable during treatment, nitrous oxide is available.
Supporting Children Through Emergencies
Dental emergencies are frightening for children. How you respond can significantly affect how your child handles the situation.
Stay calm and reassuring, even if you’re worried. Explain what’s happening in simple, non-threatening language. Avoid using words like “hurt” or “pain.” Focus on getting your child to the dentist quickly rather than dwelling on the injury. Praise your child for being brave and cooperative.
Dr. Mosmen and our team are experienced in working with children during emergencies and will do everything possible to keep your child comfortable and calm.
We're Here When
Your Child Needs Us
At The Dental Difference, pediatric dental emergencies are handled with skill, compassion, and a commitment to preserving your child's oral health. Dr. Mosmen will provide the urgent care your child needs while keeping the experience as positive as possible. Call our Brick, NJ office immediately if your child experiences a dental emergency. We'll get your child in quickly and provide the expert care that protects their smile.