Recognizing
Dental Emergencies in Children: A Parent’s Guide

At Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we do more than just respond to dental emergencies—we help you recognize them and prepare you to handle them with confidence. Whether your little one is a current patient or you are new to our family, you can count on our dedicated team for cutting-edge, gentle emergency care when it matters most.

What Constitutes a Dental Emergency? 

Understanding what constitutes a dental emergency can help you determine how quickly to act. Here are signs your child requires immediate care: 

• Severe, persistent tooth pain
• Swelling in the mouth or facial area
• A bulge or bump on the gums
• A fractured, dislodged, or loose tooth
• A knocked-out permanent tooth
• A blow to the mouth or face
• Bleeding from the mouth

Should your child experience any of these symptoms, make sure to contact Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry. Our team will offer you guidance until we can provide the needed emergency care. 

Note – If your child has severe swelling or injury, uncontrolled bleeding, or has a life-threatening emergency, do not wait. Dial 911 or go to the nearest ER. 

What Should You Do if Your Child Experiences a Dental Emergency

Dental emergencies can happen unexpectedly, turning a normal day or an enjoyable outing into a stressful ordeal. So save our number, 480-284-5076, on your phone and somewhere easily accessible and call us if your child requires urgent dental care. 

The following are some of the most common dental emergencies and initial care tips until your emergency appointment: 

• Severe Tooth Pain: A painful tooth can result from deep decay, infection, or trauma and will require immediate care. Meanwhile, have your child rinse with lukewarm water, floss to remove any trapped food or debris, and use cold compresses, if needed, to relieve swelling. 
• Knocked-Out Adult Tooth: Hold the tooth by its crown, rinse it gently, and return it to its socket or place it in some milk. Seek prompt care. We do not recommend replanting a baby tooth to prevent damage to the incoming adult tooth, but your child will need to be seen to avoid any potential complications. 
• Dislodged Tooth: Dislodged baby teeth typically heal on their own. If, however, your child dislodges a permanent tooth, place cold compresses on the affected area and contact our office right away. 
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Tooth: If you see a yellowish or pinkish hue inside a cracked or broken tooth, it generally means your child requires urgent dental care. Meanwhile, help your child rinse gently with lukewarm water and place cold compresses on the affected area to ease swelling or discomfort. 
• Soft Tissue Injury: Gentle pressure can help stop bleeding from the lips, tongue, gums, or cheeks. If, however, the bleeding is heavy and not manageable, take your child to the nearest ER. 

Remember – a dental emergency may not seem as serious as it can be, so it’s important to seek immediate care for your child to avoid complications. 

Tooth Extractions Near Me in Phoenix, AZ

Dr. Patel and our kid-friendly team at Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry are dedicated to ensuring the young smiles in our care stay healthy and sound. If your child experiences a dental emergency, make sure to call 480-284-5076 for prompt guidance and care. We are here to support you and your family every step of the way. 

How
Do I Know If My Child Has a True Dental Emergency?

At Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we take dental emergencies seriously. We are proud to offer trusted urgent care services to new and existing patients in north Phoenix, AZ, and the surrounding areas. You can always trust our team for the highest level of care!

Preparing for a Dental Emergency

Dental emergencies can develop when you least expect, and it always helps to be prepared. We recommend keeping our number on hand: (480) 284-5076. If your child experiences a dental emergency, please contact our office right away.

If your child’s emergency is life-threatening, please call 911 immediately!

Is Your Child Experiencing a True Dental Emergency?

If you’re not sure whether the situation you’re dealing with is a true dental emergency, consider the following symptoms:

• Intense, persistent tooth pain
• Uncontrolled bleeding from the mouth
• Swelling in the mouth or the facial area
• A fractured, chipped, loose, or knocked-out tooth
• A blow to the mouth or face
• Injury to the lips, tongue, gums, or cheeks
• Bulges or bumps on the gums.

The above symptoms may indicate that your child is experiencing a true dental emergency that requires immediate care. When you contact your North Phoenix emergency dentist at Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we will offer tips on stabilizing your child’s condition before you get to your emergency appointment.

What are the Most Common Pediatric Dental Emergencies?

Here are some common dental emergencies and things you can do to help:

Severe Tooth Pain: Toothaches may develop due to deep decay, infection, fractures, or trauma. If the pain persists, contact us for an emergency appointment. Meanwhile, cleanse the area with warm water and use floss to gently dislodge any trapped food between the teeth. If there is any swelling, a cold compress will help.

Knocked-Out (Avulsed) Tooth: We do not recommend reattaching a knocked-out baby tooth to prevent any damage to the permanent tooth developing behind the scenes. If an adult tooth is knocked out, gently rinse it without touching the roots and insert it into its socket using gentle pressure. If that’s not possible, place it in a container of cold milk and seek immediate emergency care.

Dislodged Tooth: Dislodged baby teeth generally heal on their own. However, permanent teeth require emergency dental care. Place cold compresses on the affected area and contact our office right away.

Dental Intrusion: A tooth is sometimes pushed upward into the jaw due to trauma. That can injure the tooth’s ligament and fracture its socket. Rinse your child’s mouth with cold water and use a cold compress to reduce swelling. Contact our dental office right away.

Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Tooth: Apinkish or yellowish shade inside a broken or cracked tooth usually indicates an emergency. Make sure to call us right away. Meanwhile, have your child rinse gently and place a cold compress on the affected area.

Injury to the Lips, Tongue, or Cheeks: Light, firm pressure can help control any bleeding as you head to your emergency appointment. However, you’ll need to take your child to the nearest emergency room if you can’t control the bleeding.

Emergency Dental Care in Phoenix, AZ

At Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we are fully prepared and equipped to provide our young patients with the best possible emergency dental services. You can always trust our highly trained, compassionate team for outstanding, gentle care!

Should
My Child Use a Mouthguard During Sports?

Have you been wondering how to protect your young athlete’s teeth? We, at Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, recommend that all children wear mouthguards if they are engaged in any sports activity that involves contact with other players or hard surfaces. With more than five million Americans losing their teeth every year due to sports-related injury, taking this necessary precaution will prevent potential damage to your child’s smile.

Common Sports-Related Dental Injuries

The most common sports-related injuries include knocked out, dislodged, cracked teeth, or fractured roots. A blow to the face can, at times, result in tooth intrusion, which refers to a tooth driven back into the jawbone. According to the National Youth Sports Safety Foundation, children without mouthguards during sports activities are approximately 60 times more likely to sustain injuries, potentially causing long-term dental problems. 

What Are Sports Mouthguards?

Sports mouthguards are oral appliances young athletes use to protect their teeth from injury due to blows to the face by absorbing the force of sudden impact. They can also prevent accidental biting of the tongue or soft tissues. A blow can cause significant damage to braces and other orthodontic appliances, so it’s essential to use a mouthguard. When worn correctly, these appliances can significantly reduce the risk of damage to the teeth and gums.

What Are the Types of Mouthguards?

There are different types of sports mouthguards available for purchase at sporting goods or department stores, including “stock” and “boil and bite.” However, these appliances rarely fit well, and most do not provide adequate protection. The best mouthguards are those we custom create for your child. At Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we offer quality sports mouthguards, designed by our outstanding team for a perfect fit and the most reliable protection.

What Is the Process of Fitting Your Child with a Custom Mouthguard?

Preparing a sports mouthguard involves taking impressions of your child’s teeth and mouth, from which we will create the appliance. We will ensure a snug and comfortable fit to provide the best protection for your child’s teeth, jaws, and gums.

Caring for Mouthguards

Have your child rinse the sports mouthguard before and after each use. Regularly clean it with fresh, soapy water, then rinse it thoroughly before storing it or placing it back in the mouth. When not in use, keep the mouthguard in a hard perforated container to keep it safe, dry, and prevent bacteria growth.

Avoid exposing the mouthguard to high temperatures to prevent any distortion or damage. Check its fit frequently and be on the lookout for wear and tear, which would mean the appliance may need replacement. Bring the mouthguard with you during routine exams and cleanings for an evaluation, to ensure it continues to provide your child with the best protection.

Quality Sports Mouthguards in Phoenix, AZ

Visit Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry to learn more about protecting your young athlete’s oral health with custom-made sports mouthguards. We are all about prevention for healthy, happy smiles. We look forward to caring for your child’s dental needs. Call us and schedule your appointment today!