{"id":75,"date":"2019-02-15T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2019-02-15T00:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/westmaitlanddentistry.com\/what-to-do-after-trauma-to-your-childs-tooth\/"},"modified":"2019-02-15T00:00:00","modified_gmt":"2019-02-15T00:00:00","slug":"trauma-to-your-childs-tooth-what-to-do-next","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.westmaitlanddentistry.com\/blog\/2019\/02\/15\/trauma-to-your-childs-tooth-what-to-do-next\/","title":{"rendered":"Trauma to Your Child\u2019s Tooth, What To Do Next?"},"content":{"rendered":"

It is common for children to have injuries while growing up.\u00a0 It is even more common for the trauma to happen in their mouth or on their teeth.\u00a0 The treatment for the tooth depends on the amount of damage done to the tooth. \u00a0This week\u2019s post we will go over different types of trauma and what to do when it happens.<\/p>\n

Fractures from Trauma<\/strong><\/p>\n

Fractures are the most common problems that kids have after a trauma to the teeth.\u00a0 The fractures can be small where a simple composite resin<\/a>, known as tooth-colored filling, can cover the area.\u00a0 If the fracture is small enough this can be the permanent option.\u00a0 These tooth-colored fillings may need to be redone in the future though as your child\u2019s teeth color and shape change with age and time.<\/p>\n

The fracture can expose the pulp of the tooth, leading to a need for more complex treatment. \u00a0The pulp of the tooth is the layer of the tooth that holds its blood vessels and the nerves.\u00a0 If the pulp is exposed to the bacteria in your child\u2019s mouth it can become infected and may need a root canal and\u00a0crown to save the tooth.\u00a0 Even if the pulp isn\u2019t exposed just the trauma itself can do enough damage to the pulp where a root canal will still be needed.<\/p>\n

Knocked-Out of Position<\/strong><\/p>\n

If your child has an injury and you notice the tooth is no longer in alignment with the rest of the teeth call your dentist immediately.\u00a0 They can move it back into position and often times the ligaments that hold your tooth in place can reattach to the tooth.\u00a0 A root canal may be needed so your child may be sent to an endodontic specialist<\/a> to evaluate the tooth\u2019s vitality.<\/p>\n

After your dentist places the tooth back into the position he or she may need to splint the teeth together. \u00a0They will anchor the displaced tooth to the teeth next to it to give the tooth stability while the ligaments and bone reattach.<\/p>\n

A Tooth that is Completely Out<\/strong><\/p>\n

When your child has a severe blow to the face sometimes the tooth can completely come out of the mouth.<\/p>\n

Baby Teeth<\/strong><\/p>\n

If the tooth is a baby tooth do not try to place it back in.\u00a0 These teeth are not replaced since the adult tooth is typically underneath.\u00a0 It is important to still make an appointment with your dentist. \u00a0If the tooth is out prematurely, a space maintainer may be necessary to keep room for the permanent tooth to come in.<\/p>\n

Permanent Teeth<\/strong><\/p>\n

If it is a permanent tooth do not throw away it away!\u00a0 Most of the time these teeth can be saved with a little TLC.\u00a0 Gently rinse any dirt or debris off the tooth with water or milk.\u00a0 Do not scrape or scrub it since there are still the periodontal ligaments attached to it. \u00a0These fibers are important in aiding the tooth to integrate back into the mouth.\u00a0 After the debris is rinsed off gently place it back in the socket as soon as possible and call your dentist to make an appointment.\u00a0When placing the tooth back in, handle it only by the crown of the tooth, not the root.\u00a0 The crown of the tooth is the top of the tooth that is usually visible in the mouth. \u00a0The root is the bottom layer of the tooth that isn\u2019t visible and is usually under the bone.<\/p>\n

Don\u2019t be forceful when trying to place the tooth back in the socket.\u00a0 If the tooth does not easily go back in, place it in one of the following: saline solution (saltwater), milk or saliva.\u00a0 Water is not a great option. \u00a0If there is no milk or saline solution available and the child is old enough not to accidentally swallow the tooth, they may hold it in their check if the dentist\u2019s office is a short distance away. \u00a0You may also wrap it in a wet napkin to ensure it stays moist. \u00a0Do not use a dry napkin.<\/p>\n

If your dentist can place the tooth back into its socket within an hour there is a good chance for survival. \u00a0They will still assess the need for a root canal or splint.<\/p>\n

Trauma Take Home Points<\/strong><\/p>\n