When a pediatric dental emergency strikes, don’t wait to ask for help. Our kind, experienced team here at Hero Pediatric Dentistry in Herndon, VA, will see you and your child for an emergency exam as soon as possible so that we can evaluate your child’s condition, stabilize the situation, and perform whatever treatment is necessary to support their recovery and long-term dental health. To get the first available appointment, give us a call now and let us know that you need emergency help.
What Is a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any unexpected dental problem that causes discomfort or damage that can’t be quickly resolved without additional help. This could be anything from a cracked tooth to a crown that falls off, a flare-up of infection, or a sports accident that knocks a tooth out. A dental emergency will cause your child ongoing distress and interfere with their quality of life until it is addressed.
What Are Some Examples of a Dental Emergency?
Some examples of a dental emergency include:
- Toothache
- Cut or bitten tongue, lip, or cheek
- Permanent tooth or a baby tooth that has been knocked out
- Permanent tooth or a baby tooth that has been chipped, cracked, or fractured
What Can Cause a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency can be caused by either a single acute trauma or by a long-term chronic condition that builds up over time. For example, your child can lose a tooth while playing basketball and need an emergency procedure to restore their appearance and ability to chew normally. However, that same tooth could also crack apart due to wear and tear over time, untreated infection, or other chronic issues.
What Should I Do When My Child Has a Dental Emergency?
Whatever the cause, we recommend seeking help for your child immediately. Until treated, a dental emergency can seriously interfere in your child’s ability to eat, speak, and smile normally, and will also typically cause ongoing discomfort or pain. Your child may also have difficulty brushing and flossing their other teeth during this time.
Our practice makes every effort to see emergency patients as soon as possible. Give our friendly front desk team a call, explain your child’s situation, and let them know that you need help right away. We’ll be sure to give you the first available appointment, as well as guidance on what to do until then.
What If My Child Has Experienced a Major Blow to the Head?
If your child has suffered from a severe impact to the head that has resulted in dental trauma, you should bring them to an emergency room for additional evaluation right away. A blow to the head can result in serious medical symptoms that go beyond any damage to your child’s teeth and need to be ruled out immediately. Once your child’s overall safety has been assessed, we recommend following up with a dental exam as soon as possible.
A Gentle, Experienced Treatment Team for Your Child
Our kind, expert team will make sure that your child is thoroughly evaluated and given the help that they need. Call us today if your child has experienced a dental emergency.
