How to Handle Dental Emergencies at School

When your child isn’t feeling well, few other things seem to matter. The health and safety of your children is your number one priority and dental health is no exception. Dental emergencies and procedures are the number one cause of missed school days for adolescents. With toothaches and dental emergencies being the leading cause of missed school days, learning how to quickly and effectively address dental emergencies is not only important for your children’s health, but also their education.

At El Segundo Modern Dentistry and Orthodontics, we want to make sure you have the knowledge and tools to be able to effectively handle any dental issues your child may encounter while at school. Knowing what to do in a dental crisis and when to seek help can significantly reduce the risk of permanent damage or loss of your child’s teeth.

What Dental Emergencies Are Common in Children?

Dental emergencies can happen in any place, at any time. Because your child spends so much time each day at school, this is a likely place for a dental emergency to happen. Pain is not the only indicator of a dental health emergency. Take care to notice if your child has any swelling, stiffness, or changes in the appearance of teeth, as these can all be indicators of an underlying issue.

Some of the most common dental emergencies for children are listed below. If your child encounters any of these issues, call or visit your El Segundo Modern Dentistry dentist right away.

Broken or Knocked-Out Tooth

Whether a baby or permanent tooth, if a tooth becomes broken or knocked out you should see your dentist immediately. If it is a permanent tooth, be sure to keep it moist on your way to the dentist to protect the tooth before it is repositioned in the mouth.

Broken or Lost Filling

Broken or lost fillings expose damaged areas of teeth. It is important to visit your dentist right away to have the filling replaced or repaired and protect sensitive tooth areas.

Broken Orthodontic Equipment

Anytime orthodontic equipment becomes broken or damaged you should make an immediate appointment with your orthodontist. Damaged and broken equipment does not function correctly, and can also cause damage in your child’s mouth.

Tissue Damage That Results in Severe Bleeding

If damage to soft tissue in the mouth or on the gums or lips bleeds continuously and cannot be controlled by pressure you should see your dentist right away.

Potentially Broken or Fractured Jaw

This condition must be handled with extreme caution. Apply cold compresses to control swelling, avoid moving the jaw and see your dentist immediately.

Swelling On or Near the Mouth or Gums

When swelling is present, use cold compresses on the affected area. Your dentist will be able to observe and identify the injuries or issues causing swelling.

Extreme Sensitivity to Heat or Cold

Sudden or extreme tooth sensitivity could be a sign of an injury, infection, or cavity. If your child complains of sensitivity see your dentist right away to identify the source of the problem.

Severe Toothache

A toothache can be a sign of a minor issue or a major complication. Sometimes a toothache is simply the result of food stuck between teeth. But if a toothache is still present after cleaning and examining your child’s mouth, see your dentist immediately to identify the cause of the toothache and begin appropriate treatment. Toothaches can be symptoms of cavities, abscess or something else.

Object Stuck in Mouth or Between Teeth

If an object between your child’s teeth cannot be dislodged by gentle flossing, make an appointment with your dentist. Remember to never use a sharp or pointed object near teeth or gums.

How Can I Prevent Dental Emergencies at School?

There are many simple and effective ways to help your child prevent dental emergencies at school.

Wear a Mouthguard

Always wear a mouthguard when participating in sports and recreational activities. If appropriate, also wear a helmet. Make sure children with orthodontics wear mouthguards during activities to protect orthodontic equipment and soft tissue in the mouth from accidental damage.

Keep Objects Out of Mouth

Teach your child not to run or play with objects in their mouth. Also, do not allow children to open bags or packages with teeth. Instead, use scissors and supervise young children when necessary.

Practice Good Oral Health Routines

Having a good oral health routine is one of the best ways to prevent dental emergencies. Daily brushing and flossing keep your child’s mouth clean and helps prevent issues stemming from tooth decay and gum disease. Teach your child about the importance of good dental health routines and supervise your child until good habits have been formed.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Make sure to set up regular dental office visits. Seeing your dentist every six months helps keep teeth healthy and strong, and gives your dentist an opportunity to address any issues before they become emergencies.

Accidents happen all the time, especially for children. Anytime and incident or issue causes your child to experience constant pain or discomfort should be considered a dental emergency. If your child experiences any of the dental issues listed above, please contact the El Segundo Modern Dentistry and Orthodontics office immediately. We are here to provide you with the best dental care for your family.

El Segundo Modern Dentistry and Orthodontics has everything you need to assist your family with dental emergencies. We also offer a full range of preventative and restorative dental services and technologies for the entire family in a modern office.

Call (424) 277-2671 today and make an appointment with El Segundo Modern Dentistry and Orthodontics!