Summer vacation is a time for family fun and adventure, but one toothache can bring the whole party crashing down. Knowing how to handle your child’s dental emergency while on vacation can save their smile and ensure that all your planning isn’t thrown out the window. Read on to find a guide to managing the most common dental emergencies during all your summer travels.
Toothache
Toothaches can be caused by cavities, infections, or injuries. If your child complains of a toothache:
- Rinse: Have them rinse their mouth with warm water to clean the area.
- Floss: Use dental floss to remove any food trapped between their teeth.
- Pain Relief: Give them an appropriate dose of over-the-counter pain medication like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. However, avoid placing aspirin directly on their gums.
- Find Help: Search for the closest dentist office wherever you are and schedule an emergency appointment.
Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out tooth is a serious emergency, especially if it’s a permanent tooth. Time is of the essence, so here’s what to do:
- Rinse Gently: Handle the tooth by the crown (top) and rinse it with water if it’s dirty, but don’t scrub, use soap, or remove any tissue fragments.
- Reinsert or Store: If the dislodged tooth is a permanent tooth, try to reinsert it into the socket if possible. If not, store it in a container of milk or saliva. Don’t use water as it can damage the tissues still attached.
- Get to a Dentist Quickly: Drive or get a ride share to a dentist within 30 minutes for the best chance of saving their tooth.
Broken or Chipped Tooth
Accidents can happen anywhere from crowded swimming pools to hotel bathtubs. Here’s what to do if your child chips or breaks a tooth:
- Rinse and Numb: Rinse the mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and numb the area.
- Collect Fragments: If you can, collect any tooth fragments and store them for safekeeping.
- Protect the Tooth: Nearby pharmacies or grocery stores may have dental wax in stock. Use it to keep the tooth from cutting. Otherwise, some sugar-free gum can protect it temporarily.
- Visit a Dentist: Schedule an emergency dental visit with a local dentist as soon as possible to repair the tooth.
Cut or Bitten Lips, Cheeks, or Tongue
Slippery sidewalks and water slides are a prime way for children to fall and suddenly bite their mouths. Here’s what to do:
- Clean and Apply Pressure: Clean the area with water and apply pressure with a clean cloth or gauze to stop the bleeding.
- Cold Compress: Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and reduce pain in the area.
- Seek Help if Needed: If the cut is deep or bleeding doesn’t stop after 10 minutes, visit a local emergency room.
By staying calm and prepared, you can handle any dental emergency your adventure throws at your child. With this guide, you’ll be able to protect their smile and keep the focus on fun and relaxation!
About the Author
Dr. Meghan Thorburn is a friendly and skilled pediatric dentist with nearly a decade of experience. She earned her dental doctorate and pediatric specialty from the University of Texas Houston. Since then, she has been excitedly caring for the tiny teeth of her patients and educating them about the importance of oral hygiene, especially in preventing emergency visits! Call (682) 327-1133 to schedule an emergency appointment at Trinity Pediatric Dentistry or visit our website to see other services we offer.