VA: 703-752-2200 | DC: 202-331-3474
Más de 30 años al servicio de las familias de McLean, Virginia y Washington, D.C.
Baby Tooth
DO NOT PUT THE BABY TOOTH BACK IN ITS SOCKET. IT CAN DAMAGE THE PERMANENT TOOTH UNDERNEATH.
Permanent Tooth
Find the tooth. Handle the tooth by the top (crown), not the root portion. You may rinse the tooth, but DO NOT scrub it. Try to reinsert it in its socket. Have the child hold the tooth in place by biting on a clean gauze or cloth. If you cannot reinsert the tooth, transport the tooth in a cup containing milk or water. See a pediatric dentist specialist IMMEDIATELY! Time is a critical factor in saving the tooth.
Broken Braces/Wires
If a broken appliance can be removed easily, take it out. Cover the sharp or protruding portion with cotton balls, gauze, or chewing gum if it cannot. If a wire is stuck in the gums, cheeks, or tongue, DO NOT remove it. Take the child to a pediatric dentist in Mclean VA immediately. Loose or broken appliances that do not bother the child don’t usually require emergency attention.
Chipped Tooth
Rinse dirt from the injured area with warm water. Place cold compresses over the face in the area of the injury. If the tooth is broken due to trauma locate and save any broken tooth fragments and keep it in the water. Immediate attention of one of the best pediatric dental specialists is necessary.
Mouth sores such as canker sores and cold sores are common in children and are usually not emergencies. However, they can cause significant discomfort and may sometimes be confused with more serious conditions. If your child has persistent pain, difficulty eating, or frequent outbreaks, learn more here or contact our office for guidance.
If a filling or crown comes out, contact our office as soon as possible to schedule an evaluation. The tooth will need to be examined before any permanent repair is completed.
In the meantime, try to keep the area clean and avoid chewing on that side of the mouth. If the tooth is sensitive, you may temporarily cover it using dental wax or an over-the-counter temporary filling material from a pharmacy. This can help reduce discomfort until your child is seen.
Avoid using household adhesives or glue, as these can damage the tooth.
Understanding Pediatric Dental Emergencies
Dental emergencies in children are common and can result from falls, sports injuries, or accidents during eating and play. Quick, informed action reduces pain, infection risk, and long-term dental problems.
Key principles for parents:
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Time is critical – some injuries, like knocked-out permanent teeth, need treatment within minutes.
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Proper handling – incorrect handling can damage the tooth, roots, or developing permanent teeth.
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Observation and care – monitor for swelling, bleeding, and signs of infection.
Prevention and Education
Prevent dental emergencies:
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Mouthguards for sports and rough play.
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Supervision during eating and play, especially for toddlers.
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Teach proper brushing, flossing, and avoiding hard candies.
Educational tip: Primary teeth guide the eruption of permanent teeth. Early loss or trauma can affect alignment and bite.
Why Immediate Care Matters
Dental emergencies in children require fast action. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), dental trauma is one of the most common childhood injuries. Quick treatment can reduce pain, prevent infection, and protect long-term oral health.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) states that a knocked-out permanent tooth has the best chance of survival if treated and reinserted within 30–60 minutes, making time a critical factor. Prompt care can often mean the difference between saving and losing a tooth.
The American Dental Association (ADA) reports that children without mouthguards are up to 60 times more likely to experience dental injuries during sports. Many emergencies are preventable, but when they do occur, immediate professional evaluation helps prevent complications.
Early intervention also protects developing permanent teeth. The AAPD explains that injuries to baby teeth can affect future tooth development and alignment, so even minor trauma should be evaluated.
Being informed and prepared helps reduce pain, limit damage, and protect your child’s smile for the future.
Remember: Being informed and prepared can save teeth, reduce pain, and prevent long-term dental problems.
Emergency Contact:
DC: 202-331-3474 | VA: 703-752-2200