It's every parent's worst dental nightmare: your kid has an accident and loses a permanent tooth. You may think your child is out of luck, but there are still things you can do. Follow these steps to help save the child's tooth:
- First, find the tooth. Handle it by the crown (top) of the tooth, not by the root. In this case, handling the tooth less is better than more.
- Very GENTLY rinse the tooth with water. DO NOT clean with soap.
- Inspect the tooth for fractures. If it is sound, try to reinsert it in the socket. Have the child hold the tooth in place by biting down on gauze. If you cannot re-insert the tooth, transport the tooth in a cup containing the patient’s saliva or milk. You can use ice water in a pinch if milk is not available. If the patient is old enough, the tooth may also be carried in the patient’s mouth (beside the cheek).
- Time is a critical in saving the tooth, so please call us immediately for an emergency consultation.
As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs. If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.
About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists
Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years. They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.