Helping Keep Smiles Safe
At Brooker Memorial, we’re here to support our community and ensure your family’s dental health. If you ever face a dental emergency, please reach out to us. For urgent needs outside regular hours, the nearest emergency room is available to provide immediate assistance. Here are some caring tips to help you prevent dental injuries and keep those precious smiles safe:
- Create a safe environment at home to prevent falls.
- Offer softer foods for young children and avoid hard foods like ice or popcorn.
- Use car seats for little ones and seat belts for older children, keeping them secure wherever you go.
- For kids involved in contact sports, a mouthguard offers extra protection – ask us about custom-fitted options.
- Gently remind children not to walk or run with objects in their mouths to avoid accidental injuries.
Common Dental Emergencies
We understand that dental issues can sometimes come up unexpectedly. Here’s some guidance to support your child through these common dental situations.
- Adult Teeth Growing Behind Baby Teeth
It’s normal for adult teeth to appear before baby teeth fall out. Gently encourage your child to wiggle the baby tooth. If it doesn’t fall out within two months, give us a call, and we’ll be happy to help. - Loose Tooth
For a very loose tooth, gently guide it forward and backward. If there’s any bleeding, a piece of gauze can help. We’re here to answer any questions or provide additional support if needed. - Object Stuck in Teeth
Using dental floss gently can often remove an object that’s stuck. Avoid sharp tools, and if it doesn’t come out, please reach out – we’re here to assist.
Toothache
If your child has a toothache, cleaning the area gently and rinsing with warm water can help. Try dental floss to clear any trapped food. If the pain continues, please call us. If there’s swelling, use a cold compress and avoid heat or aspirin – we’re here to provide relief.
Cuts or Bites on the Tongue, Lip, or Cheek
Apply ice to reduce swelling, and use gauze if there’s bleeding. If the bleeding doesn’t stop, you can count on us for further guidance or visit the ER if needed.
Serious Dental Emergencies
In more serious cases, we’re here to support you and guide you through.
- Knocked-Out Permanent Tooth
If a permanent tooth is knocked out, handle it carefully by the crown (top part), not the root. Try to place it back gently, if possible, and have your child bite down on gauze. If not, place it in milk or against the cheek. Reach out to us immediately; time is essential to help save the tooth. - Knocked-Out Baby Tooth
While treatment isn’t usually necessary for baby teeth, feel free to contact us during business hours for peace of mind and further advice. - Chipped or Fractured Tooth
For any tooth that’s chipped or fractured, contact us promptly. Rinse with water and apply a cold compress to help with swelling. We’re here to ensure your child’s comfort and protect their smile.
When to Seek Immediate Hospital Care
- Severe Blow to the Head
For any serious head injury, go directly to the ER. - Possible Broken or Fractured Jaw
If there’s a suspected jaw injury, stabilize it and seek immediate hospital care.
At Brooker Memorial, we’re here to protect your family’s health and smiles, supporting you with compassionate care when it matters most.
