What will you do if your child's tooth gets knocked out during a fall?

Does your child's tooth get knocked out during a fall?

Falls are a common occurrence for children, and sometimes they can result in a knocked-out tooth. Knocked-out teeth can be a scary experience for both children and parents. However, by following these steps, you can help to ensure that your child's tooth has the best chance of survival.

If your child's tooth has been knocked out, it is important to act quickly to preserve the tooth and minimize the risk of infection.

Here are the steps to take if your child's tooth gets knocked out:

1.    Stay calm : It is important to stay calm and reassure your child. A child who is scared or upset may be more likely to swallow the tooth or injure themselves further.

2.    Find the tooth : If the tooth is found, pick it up by the crown (the white part) and do not touch the root. If the tooth is dirty, rinse it gently in cool water for no more than 10 seconds. Do not scrub the tooth or use soap or toothpaste.

3.    Replant the tooth :  If the tooth can be replanted within 15 minutes, there is a good chance that it can be saved. To replant the tooth, gently slide it back into the socket. If the tooth does not fit back into the socket, hold it in place with a piece of gauze or cloth.

4.    See a dentist :  Even if the tooth is replanted, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. The dentist can check the tooth for damage and make sure that it is properly aligned.

Additional tips for caring for a knocked-out tooth:

· Avoid putting pressure on the tooth. Do not let your child chew on the tooth or bite down on anything hard.

· Give your child pain medication. If your child is in pain, you can give them ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

· Monitor your child's mouth for signs of infection. Signs of infection include swelling, redness, pain, and bleeding. If you notice any of these signs, take your child to the dentist immediately.

By following these steps, you can help to increase the chances of saving your child's knocked-out tooth.

 Additional information about knocked-out teeth:

· Baby teeth : Baby teeth are not as important as permanent teeth, but they are still important for chewing and speaking. If a baby tooth is knocked out, it is usually not necessary to replant it. The permanent tooth will eventually come in on its own.

· Permanent teeth : Permanent teeth are more important than baby teeth and should be replanted if possible. If a permanent tooth is knocked out, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. The dentist can assess the damage to the tooth and make a recommendation about whether or not it can be saved.

· Infection :  The biggest risk of a knocked-out tooth is infection. If the tooth is not replanted or properly cared for, it can become infected. Symptoms of infection include swelling, redness, pain, and bleeding. 

If you notice any of these symptoms, take your child to the dentist immediately.