Emergency Dentistry for Children in Union City, CA
Dental injuries and emergencies can be unsettling for both children and parents, yet they are quite common. Approximately one-third of children experience some form of dental trauma, with many encountering emergencies.
There are two main periods of increased risk for dental trauma. The first occurs during toddlerhood, typically between 18-40 months, as children start exploring their surroundings. The second peak risk period is in preadolescence and adolescence when sports-related injuries become more prevalent.
Tooth Avulsion: Dental Emergency
Fractured Crown
For Lost Teeth: If your child experiences trauma resulting in tooth loss, please contact our office immediately. If it’s a baby tooth, we need to ensure it was fully lost and not pushed back into the gums or stuck in the lip.
In the case of an adult tooth, time is critical. Gently pick up the tooth by the crown, avoiding the root, and place it in milk. DO NOT CLEAN THE TOOTH as it may harm the root cells needed for reattachment. Milk helps maintain the root cells' viability. NEVER place the tooth in water or let it dry out, as this can cause the cells to die, preventing successful reattachment. Contact our office promptly. Our pediatric emergency dentists will assess the possibility of reattaching the tooth.
For Intruded or Displaced Teeth: If your child experiences an intruded or displaced tooth, please contact Union City Pediatric and Adolescent Dentistry for proper assessment. While minor displacements may resolve on their own, others may require repositioning and splinting by our pediatric emergency dentist in Union City .
Trauma often affects the crown, the largest and most visible part of the tooth. Crown fractures vary, from minor enamel cracks (non-urgent) to pulp exposure (requiring immediate treatment).
Root Fracture
Occasionally, tooth trauma may preserve the crown while resulting in a root fracture. The location of this fracture impacts the long-term prognosis of the tooth and dictates necessary treatment.
Dental Concussion: Tooth Injury
A tooth that remains in place after being hit or bumped, without breakage, may be termed "concussed." This condition often occurs in toddlers and might lead to temporary or permanent tooth discoloration. Discoloration alone doesn't necessarily warrant concern. Treatment for discolored baby teeth is only necessary if the child experiences pain or infection associated with the affected tooth. If a permanent tooth turns grey or dark, it could indicate nerve damage, potentially requiring root canal therapy.
Injury to Cheek, Lip, or Tongue
If a child inadvertently cuts or bites their cheek, lip, or tongue resulting in bleeding, apply firm pressure directly to the area with a clean cloth or gauze. Use ice to reduce swelling. If bleeding persists uncontrollably, seek immediate medical attention by visiting the Emergency Room or contacting a healthcare professional.
Jaw Fracture
If you suspect a broken or fractured jaw, it's crucial to seek immediate medical attention at the Emergency Room. In the meantime, instruct the child to refrain from moving their jaw. For very young children, you can gently secure a scarf lengthwise around their head and jaw to immobilize it.
Head Injury or Trauma
In case of head trauma in a child, it is essential to proceed immediately to the Emergency Room, even if they haven't lost consciousness. Pediatric doctors must evaluate for possible delayed concussion and internal bleeding.
For inquiries regarding dental emergencies, feel free to discuss with your pediatric emergency dentist in Union City during your appointment sessions.
