A child’s cry in the middle of the night can be heartbreaking—especially when it’s caused by a sudden toothache or dental injury. Whether it’s a throbbing pain, a chipped tooth, or a mouthful of blood after a fall, dental emergencies can feel overwhelming. But don’t panic! Knowing what to do can make all the difference in keeping your child calm, safe, and on the path to healing.
Here’s a parent-friendly guide to handling toothaches and dental emergencies in kids—what’s normal, what needs urgent care, and how you can help in the moment.
Toothache: When It’s More Than Just a Boo-Boo
Toothaches in children can have many causes—cavities, food stuck between teeth, gum infections, or even a new tooth pushing through. Here’s how to assess the situation and take the right next steps.
1. Ask Questions and Look Inside
Start by gently asking your child:
- When did the pain start?
- Does it hurt all the time or only when chewing?
- Is it sharp, dull, or throbbing?
Use a flashlight to check for visible issues like:
- Swelling or redness around the gums
- A broken or loose tooth
- Food or debris stuck between teeth
2. Try At-Home Relief First
If the pain seems mild or moderate:
- Rinse your child’s mouth with warm salt water.
- Use dental floss to gently remove any trapped food.
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling if there’s any.
- Give age-appropriate pain relief like acetaminophen or ibuprofen—but never place aspirin directly on the gums.
Note: Avoid using topical numbing gels on young children unless advised by a dentist.
3. Call the Dentist
Even if the pain eases, it’s smart to schedule a dental appointment. Toothaches often signal an underlying issue, like a cavity or infection, that needs professional attention.
Knocked-Out Tooth: Time Is Critical
If your child knocks out a permanent tooth, act fast—every minute counts.
What to Do:
- Stay calm and find the tooth. Hold it by the crown (the top part), not the root.
- Rinse it gently with water if it’s dirty. Don’t scrub or use soap.
- Try to reinsert it in the socket if your child is old enough and cooperative. Have them bite gently on gauze to hold it in place.
- If reinsertion isn’t possible, place the tooth in milk, saliva, or a tooth preservation kit like Save-A-Tooth. Avoid storing it in water.
- Get to the dentist immediately—within 30 minutes if possible.
Baby teeth should NOT be reinserted. Call your dentist to assess the damage and ensure the permanent tooth underneath wasn’t affected.
Chipped or Broken Tooth: Don’t Ignore It
Whether it’s a fall on the playground or biting into something too hard, chipped or broken teeth are common in kids. Even a small break can cause discomfort and expose nerves.
What to Do:
- Rinse the mouth with warm water.
- If there’s bleeding, apply gentle pressure with gauze.
- Use a cold compress to reduce swelling.
- Save any broken tooth fragments in milk or saliva.
- Call your child’s dentist right away to schedule a visit.
Your dentist will determine whether the tooth can be smoothed, filled, or if further treatment is needed.
Swelling, Abscess, or Fever: Watch for Signs of Infection
Swollen cheeks, gum boils, or fever may indicate a tooth abscess—a serious infection that can spread if left untreated.
What to Watch For:
- Swelling in the jaw or face
- Persistent throbbing pain
- Pus or a bad taste in the mouth
- Fever or feeling generally unwell
What to Do:
- Call the dentist immediately—this is an urgent situation.
- Use a cold compress for swelling and give pain relief if needed.
- Do not pop or press on any swollen areas or gum boils.
Prompt treatment with antibiotics and drainage is often needed to prevent complications.
Object Stuck Between Teeth
If your child has something stuck (like food or even a toy part), it can cause discomfort or even gum damage.
What to Do:
- Gently floss the area to remove the object.
- Avoid using sharp objects like toothpicks or pins.
- Rinse with warm water or a saltwater solution.
If the object won’t budge or causes bleeding, visit your dentist for safe removal.
Preventing Dental Emergencies
While accidents can’t always be avoided, you can reduce the risk of dental emergencies with a few proactive habits:
- Use mouthguards during sports or rough play.
- Avoid hard foods like ice, popcorn kernels, or hard candy.
- Encourage good oral hygiene to prevent cavities and infections.
- Visit the dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups.
- Childproof your home, especially around hard surfaces and sharp corners.
When to Go to the Emergency Room
Most dental emergencies can be handled by your dentist, but head to the ER if:
- There’s heavy, uncontrollable bleeding.
- Your child has severe facial swelling or trouble breathing/swallowing.
- There’s a suspected jaw fracture.
- Your child lost consciousness after an injury.
Final Thoughts: Stay Calm, Stay Informed
Dental emergencies can be scary, but with the right knowledge and quick action, you can protect your child’s oral health and ease their pain. Trust your instincts, stay calm, and don’t hesitate to call your dentist—they’re your best ally in getting your child smiling again.
