After a cold wet spring, summer temperatures have finally arrived in Utah! Parents all over the state rejoice because they can “kick” their kids outside to play on the jungle gym, boot a soccer ball around or organize a pick-up game of basketball. Unfortunately, all that good healthy outdoor fun can in result in mishaps such as a chipped or knocked out tooth. Losing a permanent tooth is serious indeed, but even the loss of a baby tooth can cause problems. Here are some tips for what to do in case of a summer dental emergency.

If a Baby Tooth is Knocked Out:

• Contact a good Utah pediatric dentist such as Stevenson right away: we can help to lessen the pain and prevent infection
• Meanwhile, rinse the mouth with cool water and apply an ice pack to keep the swelling down
• You can look for the tooth and place it in cold water till you get to the dentist, but it’s not as crucial as a permanent tooth

If a Permanent Tooth is Knocked Out:

• Pick up the tooth by the crown (never by the roots), rinse, and place it in a baggie with cold water
• Firmly apply a clean damp washcloth to the affected area to stop the bleeding
• If possible, reinsert the tooth into the socket then call a Utah pediatric dentist immediately and take your child to the office immediately. If the accident occurs after hours, call the dentist’s emergency line for instructions

If you can find and save the tooth properly, chances are good that the dentist will be able to reinsert it.

If a Tooth is Broken:

Follow the above steps and contact the dentist immediately. Even a chip from a tooth can be replaced if you act fast, so remember that time is of the essence.

Prevention is always the best. If your child is engaged in sports, make sure he or she wears an appropriate mouth guard. If your child is over the age of 8, talk about what she should do if she hurts her mouth; and if you have toddlers at home, make sure your house is well child-proofed. Summer is a great time to be active, but it’s also the time when dental emergencies are likely to arise. Remember: if something happens, stay calm, act fast and contact Stevenson Pediatric right away.