When you have an active child who loves to run, jump, and play sports, there’s always a risk of injury. A common dental emergency seen at pediatric dentistry clinics is a knocked out tooth. While seeing your child in this situation can be disconcerting, following the steps laid out below can save their permanent tooth and help the healing process. 

4 Steps to Follow If Your Child Knocks Out a Permanent Tooth

1. Find the Tooth

In many cases, a knocked out tooth can be salvaged by an experienced dentist. Locate the tooth and handle it with care. Always handle the tooth from the crown as opposed to the tooth root. 

2. Rinse & Reposition

If the tooth appears dirty, rinse it quickly with water. Avoid using any soap or chemicals on the tooth and don’t scrub away any tissue. Next, help your child reposition the tooth back in the socket. This can be a precarious process, so be gentle. Once it’s back in the socket, instruct your child to bite down gently to keep it in place. 

3. Keep the Tooth Moist

If you have trouble repositioning the tooth in your child’s mouth, do not panic. Keep the tooth moist by placing it in a container of milk until you can manage the dental emergency with the help of a dentist. 

4. Call a Dental Emergency Clinic

After you have helped your child locate and manage the missing tooth, call a dental emergency practice right away for assistance. When possible, find a pediatric dentist who knows your child’s dental care history. Once you’ve informed them of the situation, make your way to the practice for professional care. 

For the last 25 years, Pedodontic Associates has been Hawaii’s first choice for pediatric dentistry services. Whether you’re dealing with a dental emergency like a knocked out tooth or your child needs routine teeth cleaning, these professionals have the expertise, bedside manner, and state-of-the-art equipment to provide top-notch dental care. Plus they make oral health care convenient with three locations, two on Oahu and one on Maui. Schedule an appointment for your child today by calling (808) 735-1733 for Honolulu, (808) 487-7933 for Aiea, or (808) 877-0066 for Kahului. Learn more about their comprehensive services on their website.