Dental Emergencies in Midlothian, VA
Dental emergencies can be tricky, but knowing what to do can help ensure the best outcomes. If you live in Midlothian, VA, and need an emergency dentist for your child, the highly trained and caring team at Bitty Bites Pediatric Dentistry is here to provide the compassionate urgent dental care you need.
What Are Common Pediatric Dental Emergencies?
There are a variety of dental emergencies that can happen to children. Some of the more common pediatric dental emergencies include:
- Toothaches
- Chipped or fractured teeth
- Knocked-out teeth
- Objects lodged between teeth
- Severe decay
- Abscesses
- Mouth injuries
If you're unsure about whether your child's condition is considered a dental emergency, contact us for guidance. Our dental professionals will be able to advise you on what to do and whether or not you should bring your child into the office for an appointment.
What Should I Do if My Child Has a Dental Emergency?
If your child is experiencing a dental emergency, it is essential to stay calm and contact us right away. Save our phone number in your phone for quick access: (804) 215-8600. If your child is bleeding uncontrollably, has broken bones, or has a life-threatening emergency, you should go to the nearest hospital emergency room or call 911 for assistance.
Here are some first-aid tips to help you before you get to our office:
- If your child is bleeding from the mouth, try to control the bleeding by rinsing the area with warm water and applying pressure with a clean cloth. If the bleeding does not stop, go to the emergency room immediately.
- If your child knocks out a primary tooth, we don’t recommend replanting it to avoid complications. If, however, your child's permanent tooth is knocked out, gently return it to its socket after cleaning it with warm water. Avoid touching the root of the tooth. If you can't place the tooth in the socket, place it in some milk and bring it to our office.
- If your child is experiencing a severe toothache, over-the-counter pain medication can help. You can also place a cold compress on your little one’s cheek to help with any pain or swelling.
How Can We Prevent a Dental Emergency?
Dental emergencies can happen to anyone at any time. Whether playing sports or eating an apple, there is a risk of dental injury. And while we can't always prevent injuries or disease, there are some things we can do to reduce the risk.
Here are some tips to help prevent your child from having a dental emergency:
- Practice good oral hygiene habits at home and ensure your child brushes and flosses daily.
- Encourage your children not to use their teeth as tools to open or cut things.
- Make sure children wear mouthguards when participating in sports or activities where they could fall or be hit in the mouth.
- Bring your child for regular dental checkups and cleanings.
Where Can I Find an Emergency Dentist Near Me?
At Bitty Bites Pediatric Dentistry, we're dedicated to giving our little patients the best emergency dental care possible. If you live in Midlothian, VA, and your child has a dental emergency, don't hesitate to call us at (804) 215-8600. We'll be there for you every step of the way.