Boo-boos aren’t just for knees; sometimes, they’re for teeth too! At Tatum Pediatric Dentistry, we love our little patients, and we know kids can be adventurous and occasionally accident-prone. While we’re always here to handle dental emergencies with expert care and big smiles, we also want to help you prevent those “uh-oh” moments before they happen.
Here are the top 5 dental emergencies we see in our dental office, and how you can keep those tiny teeth out of trouble:
1. Chipped or Broken Tooth
From playground stumbles to chewing on hard candies (we’re lookin’ at you, lollipops), chipped teeth are super common.
How to help: Avoid hard foods, remind kids not to use their teeth as tools, and always wear a mouthguard during sports.
2. Knocked-Out Tooth
One minute they’re jumping off the couch, the next—boom! A tooth is gone.
How to help: If it’s a baby tooth, we’ll check for damage. If it’s a permanent tooth, place it in milk and call us ASAP.
3. Toothache Trouble
Tooth pain can sneak up out of nowhere, and it’s usually a sign of decay or infection.
How to help: Keep up with brushing, flossing, and regular checkups. Don’t skip those six-month visits; they really make a difference!
4. Bitten Tongue or Lip
Biting down during a fall or while eating can cause some scary bleeding.
How to help: Apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth and use a cold compress. If the bleeding doesn’t stop, give us a call right away.
5. Objects Stuck Between Teeth
Kids are curious and sometimes get things like popcorn kernels, toy pieces, or food lodged in places they shouldn’t be.
How to help: Try gently flossing it out. We do not recommend using other objects to remove the item from their teeth. If it won’t budge, please call us and we will be more than happy to help.
Call Our Children’s Emergency Dentists in Phoenix, AZ
At Tatum Pediatric Dentistry, we’re always here for your child’s dental health, emergencies and all. But with a little prep, some smart habits, and regular dental visits, you can help keep their smile safe and strong.
Have questions or need a checkup? Give us a call! We’re your partners in cavity-free, emergency-free grins!