Life with kids is full of surprises, and unfortunately, some of those surprises involve dental emergencies. Whether it’s a chipped tooth from a fall or sudden tooth pain at bedtime, knowing how to respond can make a big difference. At Smiles of Palmetto Bay, we’re here to support you and your child through every stage of their dental journey, including the unexpected ones.
Our Smiles of Palmetto Bay team is going to take you through some common dental emergencies in kids, what steps to take in the moment, and how our team can help.
A Word to Parents: When You’re Not Sure What to Do
It’s completely normal to feel unsure or overwhelmed when your child has a dental emergency. Even small issues can feel big when it comes to your little one’s comfort and well-being.
The good news? You don’t have to figure it out alone. At Smiles of Palmetto Bay, we encourage you to reach out anytime you have a concern. Whether it’s during business hours or after hours, our team is ready to help.
- Call us first for any dental-related concern. Our on-call doctors are available to guide you through dental emergencies in kids with compassion and clarity. We offer after-hours on-call service for both pediatric dentistry and orthodontics, so you’re never alone in handling your child’s dental care.
- For true medical emergencies, call 911. Situations like severe facial trauma, uncontrolled bleeding, or difficulty breathing need immediate medical attention.
- Keep in mind:
- Medical doctors cannot perform dental procedures.
- They may only offer temporary relief until your child can be seen by a pediatric dentist.
You can count on Dr. Garcia and our team to provide gentle, professional care that helps your child feel safe and supported.
Common Dental Emergency Scenarios for Kids
Understanding what qualifies as a dental emergency can help you respond quickly and calmly. Here are some of the most common situations our office’s parents face:
1. Knocked-Out Tooth: If your child knocks out a permanent tooth, time is critical. Gently rinse the tooth (do not scrub), and try placing it back in the socket if possible. If that’s not an option, store the tooth in milk or saliva and get to our office right away. For baby teeth, do not attempt to reinsert. Contact us and we’ll advise next steps.
2. Cracked or Chipped Tooth: Small chips may not need immediate attention, but a large crack or jagged edge can cause discomfort. Rinse your child’s mouth with warm water and use a cold compress to reduce swelling, then let us know so we can schedule an appointment.
3. Toothache or Sensitivity: Sudden tooth pain may indicate a cavity, infection, or injury. Have your child rinse with warm salt water and gently floss to rule out food stuck between the teeth. If pain persists, contact us to determine whether a follow-up visit is needed.
4. Bitten Tongue, Lip, or Cheek: These injuries are common when kids are running, playing, or adjusting to braces. Clean the area gently with a cloth and apply ice to minimize swelling. If bleeding doesn’t stop after 10 minutes, give us a call or head to urgent care.
5. Object Stuck Between Teeth: Don’t use sharp objects to remove debris. Instead, gently floss the area. If you can’t dislodge the item, give us a call so we can safely remove it.
6. Orthodontic Emergencies: Loose brackets, poking wires, or broken appliances can all be uncomfortable. Place orthodontic wax over the irritation point, and call us to schedule a repair. Our orthodontic team of Dr. Ross and Dr. Iglesias is available after hours for urgent appliance issues.
Why Choose a Pediatric Dentist for Dental Emergencies in Kids?
Not all dentists are equipped to handle pediatric emergencies—but we are. Our very own Dr. Jorman Garcia brings advanced pediatric training, a compassionate approach, and years of experience treating children of all ages and developmental needs.
Here’s why choosing a pediatric dentist matters in an emergency:
- Specialized training: Dr. Garcia has advanced education focused on the unique dental needs of infants, children, and teens—including those with special healthcare needs.
- Experience with pediatric dental trauma: From knocked-out teeth to orthodontic mishaps, our team knows how to handle urgent situations with calm, effective care.
- Kid-friendly approach: We speak your child’s language. Dr. Garcia uses calming words, engaging distractions, and gentle techniques to reduce fear.
- Commitment to high standards: We follow the strict safety and treatment guidelines set by the American Dental Association (ADA) and American Academy of Pediatric Dentists (AAPD).
Nothing We Can’t Handle Together
It’s a huge ask to find a doctor who cares for your kids in any aspect, and pediatric dentistry is no different. But we want to assure you that Smiles of Palmetto Bay stands out for all the best reasons. Schedule a pediatric dental appointment to see for yourself!