5 Reasons Your Child Should See an Emergency Dentist

Each year, around two million emergency room visits are because of dental problems, with a substantial portion involving younger patients. This is because children are especially vulnerable to dental injuries due to their active lifestyles, participation in sports, and playful nature. As a result, the need for emergency dentistry services for kids is more common than many parents expect. 

Pediatric dentists are specially trained to handle these urgent situations, providing swift and effective care for a wide range of dental emergencies. Understanding why your child might need to see an emergency dentist is important for every parent, as prompt action can make a significant difference in preserving your child's oral health and preventing long-term complications like tooth loss. 

Read on to learn when your child should visit an emergency dentist and where to find the best dentist for children in Anchorage. 

Five Dental Problems That Require an Emergency Visit to the Dentist 

One of the most common questions we get asked is, “When should I take my child to an emergency dentist?” The answer to this question depends on the specific situation, but several scenarios warrant immediate attention from a pediatric dentist. Recognizing these situations and acting quickly can help prevent further complications and ensure your child receives the necessary care. Our list of the top five reasons to see an emergency dentist include:

1. Cracked or Broken Tooth 

A cracked or broken tooth can be painful and potentially lead to infection if left untreated. This type of dental emergency requires immediate attention, whether caused by a fall, sports injury, or biting on a hard object. A pediatric dentist can assess the damage and determine the best course of action, which may include bonding, a crown, or, in severe cases, tooth extraction.

2. Knocked out Tooth 

If your child's tooth is knocked out completely, time is of the essence. However, with proper handling and quick action, a knocked-out permanent tooth can often be successfully replanted. Below, you can read more about what to do for a knocked-out tooth. 

3. Dental Abscess 

A dental abscess is a severe infection that can cause significant pain and swelling. It may result from untreated tooth decay, injury, or gum disease. An abscess requires immediate treatment to prevent the infection from spreading to other parts of the body. A pediatric emergency dentist can drain the abscess, prescribe antibiotics, and address the underlying cause.

4. Traumatic Injury to the Jaw 

Any injury to the jaw that causes pain, difficulty opening or closing the mouth, or misaligning the teeth requires emergency dental care. These injuries can result from falls, sports accidents, or other impacts. An emergency dentist can assess the extent of the damage and provide appropriate treatment or referral to a specialist if needed.

5. Lost Filling 

While a lost filling might seem less urgent than other dental emergencies, it can lead to pain and sensitivity if not addressed right away. This is because the exposed tooth is more vulnerable to decay and further damage. An emergency dentist can quickly replace the filling, thus protecting the tooth and alleviating any discomfort your child may be experiencing.

What to Do For a Knocked-Out Tooth

Quick action can make the difference between saving or losing the tooth permanently when a tooth gets knocked out. Time is crucial, and knowing the proper steps can significantly increase the chances of successful replantation. If your child experiences a knocked-out tooth, follow these essential care steps:

1. Locate the tooth immediately.
2. Handle the tooth by the tooth crown or chewing surface, not the root.
3. Gently rinse the tooth with milk. Do not scrub or use soap.
4. Reinsert the tooth into its socket if possible, ensuring it's facing the right way.
5. If reinsertion isn't possible, store the tooth in milk or saliva. 
6. Get to an emergency dentist or emergency room within 30 minutes.
7. If the knocked-out tooth is a baby tooth, don't try to reinsert it, but still seek dental care.

Acting fast and following these steps can significantly improve the chances of saving the tooth and preventing further complications.

Where to Find the Best Dentist For Children in Anchorage

When faced with a pediatric dental emergency, knowing where to go for immediate care is important. At Kids Dental Tree, we specialize in handling pediatric dental emergencies with expertise and compassion. Our team, led by Dr. Paige Ryan, is equipped to address urgent dental issues such as severe toothaches, knocked-out teeth, broken or chipped teeth, and traumatic injuries to the mouth or jaw.

We understand that dental emergencies can be stressful for both children and parents, which is why we offer prompt, efficient care in a comforting environment. Our state-of-the-art facilities serving patients in Anchorage, Eagle River, Wasilla, and Girdwood are designed to handle emergencies quickly and effectively, minimizing pain and preventing further complications.

Choosing Kids Dental Tree for your child's emergency dental needs means access to specialists who are not only highly skilled in pediatric dentistry but also experienced in treating children with special needs. Our team's commitment to using advanced treatment methods ensures that your child receives the best possible care during urgent situations, making us the go-to choice for pediatric dental emergencies in the area.

Ready to get emergency dental care for your child with the best kids dentist in Anchorage?