Management of dental trauma is important in the both primary and permanent dentition. Correct assessment, diagnosis and long-term management can pave the way for a long-term functioning dentition. Paediatric dentists are trained in the management of all dentoalveolar injuries in children and adolescents. If a dental practice or dentist is not immediately available, refer to the below steps to minimise your child’s discomfort and prevent further damage.
For temporary relief, rinse the area around the sore tooth with warm salt water. Use dental floss to gently remove any food trapped between the teeth, in case the pain is due to trapped food. If the pain persists, call us immediately.
If an adult tooth is knocked out, follow the steps
below, then call us immediately:
Handle the tooth by the top (crown), not the root portion. If the tooth
is contaminated by dirt or debris, rinse it with
cow's milk. Try to reinsert it into the socket. If
it cannot be done, keep the tooth in a cup of cow's
milk or wrap it in a plastic wrap and avoid touching
the root. Once stored in milk the tooth should be
replanted by a dentist within 30 minutes if
possible.
An abscessed tooth can have symptoms such as throbbing pain, pain with eating, sensitivity to hot and cold, a bad taste or/and smell in the mouth. The gum adjacent to the tooth can be swollen and there is often a gum boil adjacent to the tooth. Sleep disturbance is often diagnostic of a dental abscess. Other symptoms include fever, swollen cheeks or jaw.
If your child has chipped or broken a piece off a tooth, try to locate the tooth fragment that broke off and call to make an appointment as soon as possible.
Broken braces can cause irritation and damage to the
mouth.
1. Broken Brackets
If your child’s braces has a broken bracket, call
for an appointment as soon as possible.
2. Irritation from Wires & Brackets
Use orthodontic wax to cover the wire or bracket to
relieve the irritation. You can alternatively use a
cotton ball or gauze.