When your child needs urgent dental treatment, Dr. Bob Maley and our team stand ready to help. Here are some helpful answers to some recent patient questions.
Q: What should I do if my child’s baby tooth is knocked out?
A: Contact Dr. Maley as soon as possible.
Q: What should I do if my child’s permanent tooth is knocked out?
A: Find the tooth and rinse it gently in milk or saliva. (Do not scrub it or clean it with soap — use just water!) If possible, replace the tooth in the socket and hold it there with clean gauze or a wash cloth. If you can’t put the tooth back in the socket, place the tooth in a clean container with milk, saliva, or water. Get to our office immediately--within 30 minutes is ideal. The faster you act, the better your chances of saving the tooth.
Q: What if a tooth is chipped or fractured?
A: Contact Dr. Maley immediately. Quick action can save the tooth, prevent infection and reduce the need for extensive dental treatment. Rinse the mouth with water and apply cold compresses to reduce swelling. If you can find the broken tooth fragment, bring it with you when you visit.
Q: What about a severe blow to the head or jaw fracture?
A: Go immediately to the emergency room of your local hospital. A blow to the head can be life threatening.
Q: What if my child has a toothache?
A: Call us and visit Dr. Maley promptly. To comfort your child, rinse the mouth with water. Apply a cold compress or ice wrapped in a cloth. Do not put heat or aspirin on the sore area.
Q: Can dental injuries be prevented?
A: Of course! First, reduce oral injury in sports by wearing mouth guards. Custom mouth guards provide the best protection. Second, always use a car seat for young children. Require seat belts for everyone else in the car. Third, child-proof your home to prevent falls. Fourth, protect your child from unnecessary toothaches with regular dental visits.
Contact our St. Paul dental office to schedule an appointment. We love what we do and enjoy watching our patients grow and smile as they visit our office!
