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!