Dental emergencies can happen at any time, including while your child is at school. A dental emergency can range from a tooth or jaw ache to a serious trauma to the face (e.g. getting hit in the mouth with a basketball while at recess). Knowing how to handle a dental emergency can help you and your child stay calm and take the appropriate actions to address the issue. Our team at Valencia Smiles shares some tips for handling a dental emergency while at school:
Stay Calm
If you get a call from your child at school saying they had a dental emergency, it’s important to stay calm and reassure your child that everything will be okay. This can help prevent your child from panicking and making the situation worse.
Contact the School Nurse
The first person you should contact is the school nurse. The nurse can assess the situation and provide basic first aid, such as cleaning the wound or applying an ice pack.
Call your Dentist
If the dental emergency is more serious, such as a knocked-out tooth, you should call your dentist right away. Your dentist can provide guidance on what to do next and may be able to see your child for an emergency appointment. If your child experiences a serious trauma to the face and mouth, excessive bleeding, difficulty breathing or severe jaw pain, seek medical attention immediately and call your dentist for a follow-up later.
Pack a Dental Emergency Kit
Consider packing a dental emergency kit for your child to keep in their backpack. The kit can include items such as gauze, a small container to hold a knocked-out tooth, and a pain relief medication.
Dental emergencies can be scary, but knowing how to handle them can help you and your child feel more prepared. By staying calm, contacting the appropriate individuals, and providing pain relief, you can help your child get the care they need in a timely manner. Remember, early intervention can help prevent further damage and promote faster healing.
If you have yet to find a pediatric dentist for your child, request an appointment at Valencia Smiles!
