Playgrounds are a place of fun and energybut theyre also one of the most common locations for childhood injuries, including dental trauma. Falls, collisions, and equipment accidents can all result in damaged teeth or oral tissue. Knowing how to respond quickly and correctly to playground-related dental trauma is crucial in preserving a childs dental health.
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, we frequently treat pediatric dental injuries resulting from outdoor play. Whether its a chipped tooth or a knocked-out incisor, prompt action can mean the difference between saving and losing a tooth.
Common Types of Playground Dental Trauma
Playground dental injuries typically occur due to slips, falls, or contact with hard surfaces or play equipment. Common dental traumas seen in children include:
Knocked-out (avulsed) tooth
Fractured or chipped tooth
Tooth displacement (luxation or extrusion)
Tooth intrusion (tooth pushed into the socket)
Soft tissue lacerations (to lips, gums, cheeks, or tongue)
Broken dental restorations (fillings or crowns)
Each type of injury requires specific attention and a quick response to minimize pain, infection risk, and long-term dental complications.
Step-by-Step Guide to Managing Playground Dental Injuries
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Injury
Children may become frightened or overwhelmed by pain and bleeding. Remain calm and comfort the child while assessing the type and severity of the injury.
Look for missing or broken teeth
Check for bleeding, swelling, or visible trauma to the mouth and face
Determine if the child is conscious and responsive
A calm, reassuring approach helps the child stay still and reduces further risk of injury.
2. Knocked-Out Permanent Tooth
This is one of the most time-sensitive dental emergencies. For children with permanent teeth (usually ages 6 and up):
Locate the tooth and handle it only by the crown (the top part)
Rinse it gently with clean waterdo not scrub or remove any tissue fragments
If possible, reinsert the tooth into the socket and have the child gently bite down on gauze
If reinsertion isn’t possible, store the tooth in a cup of milk, saline, or the child’s saliva
Seek immediate dental attentionpreferably within 30 minutes
Note: Do not attempt to reinsert baby teeth. Doing so can damage the developing permanent tooth underneath.
3. Chipped or Fractured Tooth
If a child chips or breaks a tooth on playground equipment:
Rinse the childs mouth with warm water to clean the area
Use a cold compress to reduce swelling around the mouth or face
Collect any tooth fragments, if possible, and store them in milk or saliva
Avoid giving hot or cold food or drinks, which may aggravate sensitivity
Contact a dentist for an urgent evaluation
Depending on the severity, treatment may involve dental bonding, a crown, or root canal therapy.
4. Dislodged or Loosened Tooth
Teeth that have been partially pushed out of place (luxated or extruded) need immediate care:
Do not try to reposition the tooth without a professional
Keep the child from wiggling or putting pressure on the tooth
Apply a cold compress to the outside of the mouth if there is swelling
Visit a dental clinic urgently for stabilization or splinting
The quicker a displaced tooth is evaluated, the better the chance of saving it.
5. Intruded Tooth
When a tooth is pushed into the gum or jawbone, it may not be immediately visible.
Look for signs of bleeding, gum injury, or a missing tooth that wasnt knocked out
Do not probe the area or attempt to pull the tooth out
Apply cold compresses and seek immediate dental or medical care
Intrusion injuries often require long-term monitoring and specialized dental treatment.
6. Soft Tissue Injuries
Cuts and bruises to the mouth, lips, tongue, or cheeks are also common in playground accidents.
Clean the area gently with water
Apply firm pressure with sterile gauze to stop any bleeding
Use a cold compress to control swelling
If the wound is deep or bleeding persists beyond 10 minutes, seek medical attention
Dentists may recommend stitches or further treatment for extensive lacerations.
When to Visit the Emergency Room
In some cases, a dental trauma may be accompanied by more serious injury, including:
Loss of consciousness
Suspected concussion or head injury
Facial fractures
Severe bleeding or difficulty breathing
In these situations, prioritize a trip to the emergency room before seeking dental care.
Preventing Playground Dental Injuries
While not all accidents are avoidable, schools and parents can take proactive steps to reduce the risk of dental trauma:
Ensure children wear appropriate mouthguards during contact sports or high-risk activities
Supervise young children during playground use
Check that play equipment meets safety standards and is age-appropriate
Encourage children to avoid roughhousing or pushing on hard surfaces
Reinforce the importance of oral hygiene and regular dental checkups
Safe play habits and awareness go a long way in keeping smiles intact.
The Importance of Professional Evaluation
Even if a dental injury seems minor, professional evaluation is critical. What looks like a small chip could involve damage to the tooth pulp or root. At McLevin Dental, we use digital imaging and comprehensive exams to assess the full extent of trauma and deliver prompt, personalized treatment.
Our Scarborough dental team is experienced in treating childrens dental emergencies with care and precision, ensuring your childs comfort and long-term dental health.
Final Thoughts
Playground dental trauma is more common than many realize, but knowing how to respond makes all the difference. Immediate action can prevent permanent damage, save teeth, and reduce complications. Whether its a knocked-out tooth or a soft tissue injury, the key is calm, informed response and timely professional care.