As a parent, nothing can be more distressing than seeing your child in pain or discomfort due to a dental emergency. Whether it’s a knocked-out tooth during playtime or a sudden severe toothache, knowing how to respond can make a world of difference. At Preston Dental Group, we’re here to help you navigate these situations with confidence and care. Let’s explore some common dental emergencies and what you can do to ensure your child receives the best possible treatment.

Common Dental Emergencies

1. Knocked-Out Tooth

If your child has had a tooth knocked out, it’s crucial to act quickly. First, stay calm and reassure your child. Locate the tooth and handle it by the crown—avoid touching the root, as this can damage the delicate cells that help reattach it. If the tooth is dirty, give it a gentle rinse under cool water, but don’t scrub it. If you can, try placing the tooth back into its socket. If that’s not possible, store it in a glass of milk or saline solution.

When to See a Dentist: Contact an emergency dentist in Preston immediately. The sooner you get to the dentist, the better the chances of saving the tooth.

2. Severe Toothache

A toothache can be a sign of a more serious issue, and it’s often accompanied by discomfort that can make your child quite upset. Start by rinsing their mouth with warm salt water to help reduce inflammation. You can also give them over-the-counter pain relief suitable for their age.

When to See a Dentist: If the pain persists or worsens, it’s essential to consult a cosmetic dentist in Preston. They can identify the underlying cause and provide the necessary treatment.

3. Broken or Chipped Tooth

Accidents happen, especially with active kids. If your child breaks or chips a tooth, rinse their mouth with warm water to clean the area and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. If you find the broken piece, keep it moist in a clean container with milk or water.

When to See a Dentist: Schedule an appointment with an orthodontist in Preston as soon as possible to evaluate the damage and discuss potential repair options.

4. Lost Filling or Crown

If your child loses a filling or crown, keep the piece safe. You can temporarily hold it in place with dental cement or sugar-free gum if it’s still intact. However, it’s important to avoid trying to fix it yourself permanently.

When to See a Dentist: Reach out to your Bupa dentist in Preston for a replacement. They’ll provide the best solution to restore your child’s tooth.

5. Abscess or Swelling

An abscess or noticeable swelling in the gums can indicate an infection, which requires immediate attention. Rinse your child’s mouth with warm salt water to help alleviate discomfort and reduce inflammation.

When to See a Dentist: Don’t hesitate to seek urgent care from an emergency dentist in Preston. Prompt treatment is vital to prevent the infection from spreading.

Tips for Prevention

While it’s impossible to predict every dental emergency, there are steps you can take to minimise risks:

- Regular Dental Check-ups: Make sure your child sees their dentist regularly for check-ups. This helps catch potential issues before they escalate.

- Protective Gear: If your child participates in sports, ensure they wear a mouthguard to protect their teeth from injury.

- Good Oral Hygiene: Encourage your child to brush their teeth twice a day and floss daily. This will help maintain their dental health and reduce the likelihood of emergencies.

Why Choose Preston Dental Group?

At Preston Dental Group, we understand how urgent dental emergencies can be. Our compassionate team is dedicated to providing prompt and effective care. Here’s what we offer:

- Guaranteed Same-Day Emergency Appointments: We reserve specific slots each day for emergencies. If you contact us during business hours, we’ll do our utmost to fit you in.

- After-Hours Emergency Hotline: If a dental emergency arises outside our usual hours, don’t panic! Call our After-Hours Emergency Hotline at 0413 161 161. We’ll work hard to book your appointment as soon as possible.

Contact Us Today!

For any dental emergency, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Preston Dental Group. You can visit us at 659 Bell St, Preston VIC 3072, or give us a call at (03) 6164 3616. Your child’s dental health is our top priority, and we’re here to help you every step of the way!