Here’s What to Do If Your Child Knocks Out a Tooth

Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them, and they often happen in the most inopportune of times! They can also affect your children, and when that happens, the world can suddenly come to a screeching halt. However, there’s no need to panic and scramble for a solution; it’s important to keep your cool and contact your dentist immediately. That said, in the moment there can still be quite a bit to process, and you might feel overwhelmed. Keep reading to learn more about what steps you should take if your child knocks out a tooth.

#1: Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

One of the most important things you can do when your child has a tooth knocked out is to stay calm! This won’t just allow you to think clearly and act quickly, but it will also set an example for your child and help to relieve any stress they might be experiencing.

You should make sure your child is safe and not experiencing any other injuries. If their mouth is bleeding, have them bite down on a clean washcloth soaked in water as a compress in the area of the lost tooth to reduce swelling and stop the bleeding.

#2: Locate and Protect the Tooth

Both baby teeth and permanent teeth can become displaced, but baby teeth are easier to knock out due to their shorter roots. Since baby teeth aren’t replaced, as it could disrupt the growth of the underlying permanent tooth, you do not need to prioritize retrieving the lost tooth.

However, if your child has had one of their permanent teeth knocked out, you should attempt to locate and secure the tooth after you’ve treated your child. If possible, you can place the tooth back in its socket, having your child bite down on a washcloth to hold it in place until you arrive at the dentist. Just be sure to pick up the tooth by the crown and gently rinse it off if necessary. If you are unable to place the tooth back in its socket, you can store it in a cup of cold milk or your child’s saliva; do NOT use water.

#3: Contact Your Emergency Dentist

You also need to immediately contact your emergency dentist and schedule an appointment for your child. Time is of the essence here; the tooth has the best chance of being replaced if you’re able to get your child to the dentist within an hour. In the meantime, your dentist will provide you with any necessary information and instructions until you arrive at their office; this will ensure that your child is as comfortable as possible until they can receive the treatment they need.

Dental injuries can cause a great deal of stress and anxiety; especially when they affect your child! Luckily, a little quick thinking and jumping into action can ensure that your little one receives the pain-relief and treatment that they need as fast as possible.

About the Practice

Gerome & Patrice Family Dentistry proudly serves patients in the Loveland area under the leadership of Dr. Mark Gerome and Dr. Gina Patrice! Dr. Gerome and Dr. Patrice both have several years of experience and expertise in several fields and their practice is pleased to offer a wide range of available services, including emergency dentistry. If your child is suffering from a knocked-out tooth, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment through the practice’s website or by phone: (513) 677-1349.