Accidents happen — especially when kids are involved. Whether it’s a fall at the playground, a sports injury, or a slip around the house, dental trauma in children is more common than many parents realize.
Knowing how to respond quickly and calmly can make all the difference in protecting your child’s smile and preventing long-term damage.
Here’s what Canadian parents need to know about handling dental emergencies in children.
What Is Dental Trauma?
Dental trauma refers to any injury to the teeth, gums, lips, or surrounding structures. In children, it often happens during play, sports, or due to an accidental impact.
Common types of dental trauma include:
- Chipped or broken teeth
- Knocked-out (avulsed) teeth
- Dislodged (loose or pushed-in) teeth
- Cut or swollen lips, tongue, or gums
- Tooth pain after impact
Step-by-Step: What to Do If Your Child Has Dental Trauma
✅ 1. Stay Calm and Reassure Your Child
Your reaction sets the tone. Children pick up on your stress, so try to stay calm, speak gently, and reassure them that everything will be okay.
✅ 2. Check for Injuries Beyond the Mouth
If your child hit their head, has bleeding that won’t stop, or shows signs of a concussion, go to the nearest emergency room first.
If a Baby Tooth (Primary Tooth) Is Knocked Out:
- Do NOT try to reinsert it. This could damage the developing adult tooth underneath.
- Gently rinse their mouth with water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
- Contact your dentist to check for any underlying damage.
If a Permanent Tooth Is Knocked Out:
This is a true dental emergency.
- Find the tooth and hold it by the crown (top), not the root.
- Do not scrub or remove tissue fragments.
- Gently rinse it with milk or saline (if dirty), not tap water.
- Try to reinsert it into the socket if your child is calm and cooperative.
- If not, place the tooth in a cup of milk or your child’s saliva to keep it moist.
- Call your dentist immediately and aim to get care within 30–60 minutes for the best chance of saving the tooth.
For Chipped, Cracked, or Loose Teeth:
- Rinse your child’s mouth with warm water.
- Apply a cold compress to the outside of the face to reduce swelling.
- Save any tooth fragments in a clean container with milk or saliva.
- Contact your dental office to schedule an urgent appointment.
Managing Bleeding or Soft Tissue Injuries:
- Apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze.
- Use a cold compress on the lip or cheek to reduce pain and swelling.
- If bleeding doesn’t stop after 10–15 minutes, visit the nearest emergency room or urgent care.
When to Call a Dentist
Always contact your dentist if:
- A tooth has been knocked out, chipped, or feels loose
- Your child has tooth pain after a fall or injury
- There’s visible damage to the gums, lips, or tongue
- You’re unsure whether follow-up care is needed
Even minor injuries can have hidden effects — a quick dental exam can give you peace of mind and prevent complications down the road.
Preventing Dental Trauma in Kids
While not every accident can be avoided, here are some ways to reduce the risk:
- Encourage use of mouthguards during sports
- Childproof sharp corners or slippery surfaces at home
- Teach safe play habits
- Ensure your child sees a dentist regularly to monitor tooth development
Final Thoughts
Dental trauma can be scary — but with the right steps and prompt care, most children recover well. Whether it’s a baby tooth bump or a more serious injury, your dental team is here to support you and your child every step of the way.
Need emergency dental care for your child? We’re here for you.
Our clinic offers gentle, kid-friendly care and same-day appointments for dental injuries. Call us anytime to speak with our team or book an urgent visit.