PEDIATRIC EMERGENCY DENTAL CARE
Gilbert, AZ
“Very happy I was referred by my friend who also has a child with anxiety at the dentist. They are very friendly and seemed very experienced with dealing with children that have this issue. My child stayed comfortable and happy throughout his check up. Definitely recommend this place for parents with such issues with their children.”
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Common Dental Emergencies in Children and How to Handle Them
Dental emergencies can be overwhelming for both kids and parents, and they are more common than many realize. Studies show that nearly one in three children will face some type of dental injury, with emergencies often occurring during the early years of development.
Children are especially vulnerable during two stages of growth: as toddlers (around 18–40 months), when curiosity and exploration can lead to falls or accidents, and again in the preteen and teenage years, when active play and sports activities increase the risk of dental trauma.
Below are some of the most common pediatric dental emergencies and practical tips on what to do if they happen.
Types of Urgent Dental Issues in Children
Toothache – Tooth pain in kids can stem from several causes, such as cavities, trauma, infection, or even issues with a permanent tooth. Sports injuries and missed dental visits often contribute to these problems. If your child has ongoing discomfort, our pediatric emergency dentist in Gilbert, AZ, will carefully evaluate whether the pain comes from the tooth, the nerve, or the surrounding tissues.
Knocked-Out Tooth – If your child loses a tooth due to an accident, call our office right away. For baby teeth, place the tooth in a clean container of milk and contact us immediately. When a permanent tooth is knocked out, time is critical—handle the tooth only by the crown (the top portion) and get to our office as quickly as possible. If a tooth is pushed inward or displaced, prompt evaluation is needed.
Fractured Crown – The crown (the visible surface of the tooth) is especially vulnerable to breaks. Some cracks are minor and may only need sealing, while others expose the inner pulp and require immediate care. Warning signs such as pink or yellow discoloration indicate a more serious issue. Our pediatric dentist in Gilbert, AZ, can diagnose the severity with dental X-rays and recommend the appropriate treatment to prevent infection.
Root Fracture – A break in the root of the tooth can occur from impact or injury. Symptoms may include loosened teeth, pain when biting, or changes in sensitivity. Because trauma can damage the nerve, it’s important to have a dentist evaluate and treat root fractures quickly.
Dental Concussion – This type of injury may cause a tooth to become sore or change color without breaking. If the tooth darkens or turns black, it could mean the nerve is dying, and a root canal may be needed. Even if the tooth looks normal, an exam is essential to rule out hidden damage.
Soft Tissue Injuries – Cuts or bites to the lips, tongue, or cheeks should be treated promptly to reduce the risk of infection. Our pediatric emergency dentist can evaluate bleeding, swelling, and tissue damage to determine the next steps. If the flap of skin under the lip (frenulum) is torn, a hospital visit may be required.
Jaw Fracture – Accidents from falls or contact sports can lead to jaw fractures. Symptoms include sharp pain in the jaw, teeth, or chin, and difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking. If your child experiences these signs, seek emergency dental care immediately.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) – Head injuries may happen at the same time as dental trauma, making the situation more stressful. If your child experiences any signs of head trauma along with dental injury, an urgent medical and dental evaluation is needed to protect their overall health.
If you have any questions or need assistance with emergency dental care for your child in Gilbert, call us at 855-637-9928 . Our dentists are ready to help your child get the care they need, right when they need it.
Frequently Asked Questions.
What should I do if my child has an after-hours dental emergency?
If the emergency is minor (like a small chip or mild toothache), you can usually wait until the next day to see a dentist. But if your child has severe pain, uncontrolled bleeding, swelling in the face, or trouble breathing, go to the nearest emergency room right away.
What should my child avoid after emergency dental treatment?
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Stick to soft foods for at least 24 hours.
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Avoid hot, cold, sticky, or hard foods that irritate the tooth or damage temporary repairs.
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Remind your child not to chew on the treated side until fully healed.
My child chipped a tooth but isn’t in pain — is it still an emergency?
Small chips without pain usually aren’t urgent, but the tooth should still be checked soon to prevent future damage. If the chip is large or your child is in pain, it’s best to see a dentist right away.
How can I manage my child’s dental pain at home?
If safe for them, give an age-appropriate over-the-counter pain reliever (such as children’s acetaminophen or ibuprofen). A cold compress on the cheek can also help. Avoid giving them very hot, cold, or sweet foods until the dentist visit.
What if my child has swelling in their face or gums?
Facial swelling can be a sign of infection. Apply a cold compress and get them to a dentist immediately. If the swelling spreads rapidly or is accompanied by fever or difficulty breathing, go to the ER immediately.
Should I try to put a knocked-out baby tooth back in?
No. Baby teeth should not be replanted because doing so can damage the permanent tooth developing underneath. Instead, clean the area and see a dentist to ensure the surrounding teeth and gums are healthy.