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Summer is filled with sunshine, sports, vacations, and outdoor adventures. While it's a season packed with fun, it's also one of the busiest times of year for pediatric dental injuries.
Whether your child is riding a bike, playing at the pool, or enjoying a game of baseball, accidents can happen when you least expect them.The good news? Knowing what to do in those first few moments can make a big difference.
At Pawsitive Pediatric Dentistry, we're here to help you keep your child's smile healthy all summer long.
What you should do
:Before worrying about the tooth, make sure your child is okay. Go to the nearest Emergency Department immediately if your child has:
● Loss of consciousness
● Dizziness
● Vomiting
● Confusion or unusual sleepiness
● Suspected concussion
● Head trauma
● Difficulty breathing
● Heavy bleeding that won't stop
● Suspected broken jaw or severe facial injury
Your child's overall health always comes before the tooth.
Chipped or Broken Teeth
A chipped tooth is one of the most common summer dental emergencies. Falls, sports, andplayground accidents can all lead to a cracked or broken tooth.
What to do
● Stay calm.
● Rinse with water.
● Apply a cold compress.
● Save any broken pieces.
● Keep your child on soft foods.
● Give acetaminophen or ibuprofen if appropriate.
● Stay calm and comfort your child.
Even a small chip can expose sensitive areas of the tooth, so it's always a good idea to have it evaluated.
● If you can safely find the broken piece of tooth, bring it with you to your appointment.
● Send us a picture! Text us at 717-219-4214
● Call our office as soon as possible so we can determine how quickly your child should be seen.
Knocked-Out Teeth
A knocked-out tooth can be alarming, but the right steps depend on whether it's a baby tooth ora permanent tooth.
If it's a baby tooth:
Do not try to place the tooth back into the socket. This could damage the developing permanenttooth underneath. Contact our office right away so we can examine the area and make sure noadditional treatment is needed.
If it's a permanent tooth:
Time is important.
● Pick up the tooth by the crown (the chewing surface), not the root.
● If it's dirty, gently rinse it with water without scrubbing.
● If possible, carefully place the tooth back into the socket.
● If that isn't possible, store the tooth in cold milk or a tooth preservation solution.
● Call our office (717-219-4214) immediately. The sooner your child is treated, the betterthe chances of saving the tooth. This is time sensitive! Best chances of keeping thetooth if we see you in under an hour.
Toothaches
Not every toothache is caused by a cavity. Food trapped between teeth, a loose baby tooth,sinus pressure, or an injury can all cause discomfort.
Before calling the dentist:
● Have your child rinse with warm water.
● Gently floss around the sore tooth to remove any trapped food.
● Send a photo to (717-219-4214) and call our office as soon as possible so we candetermine how quickly your child should be seen.
If the pain is severe, lasts more than a day, is accompanied by swelling or fever, or your childhas difficulty eating or sleeping, contact our office promptly.
When Should You Call the Dentist?
Some dental issues can wait until regular office hours, while others need immediate attention. Call us right away if your child has:
● A knocked-out permanent tooth
● A chipped or broken tooth with pain or bleeding
● Significant swelling of the face or gums
● Persistent or severe tooth pain
● A dental injury after a fall or sports accident
● Bleeding that doesn't stop after applying gentle pressure.
If your child has trouble breathing, has a serious facial injury, or you suspect a broken jaw, seek emergency medical care immediately before addressing the dental injury.
Preventing Summer Dental Emergencies
While accidents can't always be avoided, a few simple precautions can help reduce the risk:
● Wear a properly fitted mouthguard during sports and recreational activities.
● Always wear helmets when biking, skateboarding, or scootering.
● Avoid chewing on ice, popcorn kernels, or other hard objects.
● Keep up with regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits—even during vacation.
We're Here When You Need Us
Dental emergencies are never part of the summer plans, but knowing how to respond can helpprotect your child's smile. If your child experiences a dental injury or develops unexpected toothpain, don't hesitate to contact Pawsitive Pediatric Dentistry. Our caring team is here toprovide prompt, compassionate care and help your little one get back to enjoying summer with ahealthy, confident smile.
