What to Do if Your Child Has a Dental Emergency with Dr. DeLisle of Lolo Children’s Dentistry
Accidents happen, and when they involve your child’s teeth, it’s important to know how to respond. Whether your toddler falls and chips a baby tooth, your child gets hurt while playing sports, or they begin complaining of a toothache, you want to be prepared. Here are some essential steps to take when your child experiences a dental emergency in Western Montana.
1. Stay Calm & Contact Us – Don’t Go to the ER
First and foremost, try to stay calm and reassure your child. While oral injuries can be alarming, they are rarely life-threatening, and your child can get the help they need from Dr. DeLisle at Lolo Children’s Dentist to restore their smile.
Instead of rushing to the ER, which typically doesn’t have dental professionals on staff and can be more expensive, call us at 406-284-8669. We can arrange a same-day appointment for your child. You should only go to the ER if there’s a serious risk to your child’s life, such as a concussion or broken jaw.
2. Recover the Tooth or Fragments (If Applicable)
If your child loses a tooth, it’s important to recover it immediately if it really is a dental emergency. Rinse it gently with warm water, then place it in a container of cold milk. The sooner you see Dr. DeLisle, the better the chances of saving the tooth—ideally within 1-2 hours.
If a tooth is broken, gather any fragments and place them in cold milk to keep them moist. Bring them with you to your appointment. If dental work, such as a crown, is damaged, keep it safe in a container or plastic bag.
3. Rinse, Manage Pain & Discomfort
Rinse your child’s mouth with warm water to remove debris and clean the injury site. If there’s bleeding, use clean gauze or cotton balls to absorb it.
For pain relief, administer over-the-counter ibuprofen or a similar medication as directed. Applying an ice pack to the outside of the cheek near the affected area can help reduce swelling and discomfort.
4. Come to Lolo Children’s Dentist
It’s important to bring your child to Lolo Children’s Dentist as soon as possible. The sooner Dr. DeLisle can see your child, the better the chance of saving the tooth and preventing future complications. We’ll also work to relieve any pain and discomfort your child may be experiencing.
5. Follow-Up Care and Prevention
After the initial treatment, it’s important to schedule any necessary follow-up appointments with Dr. DeLisle to ensure your child’s recovery is progressing smoothly. Even if the injury appears to have healed well, Dr. DeLisle may recommend further monitoring to check for complications, such as an infection or damage to the surrounding teeth or gums. If a tooth was knocked out or broken, a follow-up appointment is crucial to ensure that the tooth heals correctly or is replaced if necessary.
In addition to follow-up care, it’s also a great time to discuss preventive measures with Dr.DeLisle to help reduce the risk of future dental emergencies. Depending on your child’s age and activity level, Dr. DeLisle may suggest dental treatments such as fluoride applications, sealants, or a custom-fit mouthguard, especially if your child participates in contact sports. These protective measures can go a long way in safeguarding your child’s dental health.
Finally, educating your child on good oral hygiene practices and the importance of protecting their teeth during physical activities can help prevent accidents and keep their smile healthy. Regular dental check-ups and maintaining a proactive approach to dental health will also help catch any potential issues early, minimizing the risk of serious problems down the line. At Lolo Children’s Dentist, we’re here to guide you through every step of your child’s dental care journey.
At Lolo Children’s Dentist, we’re here to provide the expert care your child needs in times of dental emergency. Contact us immediately if you’re ever unsure of what to do!