Dental Emergencies

We see many types of injuries that involve the mouth and teeth. If these occur during normal office hours, we will do our best to work you into our schedule in a timely manner. Some children will need to be seen in the Emergency Room, prior to the dental office, if loss of consciousness, dizziness, altered alertness, balance, hearing or visual difficulties are present, as these conditions require immediate medical attention. Call 689-5437 with questions, or to make an appointment.

Teeth knocked out

Primary
We do not recommend re-implanting a baby tooth that has been knocked out of the mouth. Primary teeth that are knocked out in a accident can be brought to the office for inspection, if they can be located.

Permanent
Permanent teeth need to be re-implanted ASAP for a good outcome, preferably within the first 30 minutes of the accident. An avulsed (knocked out) teeth should only be handled by the crown (enamel). Do not touch the root portion. If dirty, gently rinse. Place the tooth back into the socket, if possible, or have the child hold the tooth in their cheek. The next best option is to place the tooth in a cup of the child's spit (saliva), followed by placing the tooth in a cup of milk. If milk is not available then keep the tooth hydrated in plain water. Bring the tooth with you to the appointment.

After Hours Emergencies

After hours, we will only see patients of record that currently established in our office. Current patients have been in for regular examinations and cleanings within the last 12 months, thus we have a current medical and dental history that is up to date. If your child is not established in our office, or we have not seen them recently, please take them to the ER. We can see them during regular business hours and get them established in our practice.

Common types of dental injuries

crown fractures: Involve fractures of the enamel, and or dentin. These may involve exposure of the nerve (pulp).

root fractures: Include fracture of the root portion of the tooth below the gum line.

concussion injuries: Trauma that arises when a tooth is hit or bumped, although the tooth does not get loose. Many of these type injuries require long term follow-up as the damage from the injury can slowly progress.

subluxation injuries: Trauma that occurs when a tooth is injured that makes the tooth loose, but without displacement.

intrusion injuries: The tooth is pushed up into the socket. May be completely buried.

extrusion injuries: The tooth is partially (Knocked out) pulled out of the socket. These require splinting

avulsions: The tooth is completely knocked out of the socket. These may require replacement, and splinting.

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