What should I do if my child knocks out or breaks a tooth?
Time is of the essence. If it is a permanent tooth and it has been completely knocked out, find the tooth. Hold the tooth by the crown, if dirty rinse the tooth in cool water, do not wipe the tooth and gently replace the tooth into the socket. Determine the front of the tooth, hold the tooth in position and ask your child to bite on a guaze or handkerchief. If you do not feel comfortable with placing the tooth back into your child’s mouth, place the tooth in fresh skim milk and contact the office to bring your child to the office immediately. NEVER DELAY – the sooner your child is seen by the dentist, the better his/her chance of saving the tooth.

If the tooth has been broken, save any fragments or pieces by storing them in fresh milk and make an emergency visit to the dentist’s office.

If it is a “baby” tooth, broken or knocked out, call the office for an emergency examination. A pediatric dentist should examine all injuries to the mouth. A chipped or broken tooth can usually be repaired.

What does it mean if my child's teeth are sensitive to hot and cold?

Sensitive teeth are not uncommon and can be symptomatic of anything from a harmless sinus headache to more serious problems such as bruxism (teeth grinding), cavities, loose fillings, or receding gums. Sensitivity also can be magnified by tiny cracks beneath the outer enamel created by chewing on hard objects. Dental treatment sometimes inflames the pulp or nerves inside the teeth making them sensitive. If your child complains of momentary pains caused by hot or cold elements, consider all possible causes and consult your pediatric dentist. Fleeting sensations are rarely grounds for worry. If these pains tend to linger, however, call the office for an examination.

What about a jaw fracture or severe blow to the head?

Go immediately to the emergency room of your local hospital. A blow to the head can be life threatening.

After Hours Emergency Number

(301) 706-6026 

You may also contact Children's Hospital at (202) 476-5000, ask for the pediatric dental resident on call, or contact your family dentist. 

If your child has sustained a life threatening injury please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Additional links/resources:

Children's National Medical Center~Washington D.C.

American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry