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Dental injuries in children are common and require prompt attention. Children’s active lifestyles and high energy often lead to falls, sports accidents and play-related injuries. Dental trauma can include broken teeth, teeth being knocked out, or damage to the gums. This article explains the causes, signs, emergency management and treatment options for dental injuries in children.
Common causes include:
Falls: Falling while playing or running can damage teeth.
Sports accidents: Collisions or falls during sports may cause dental trauma.
Vehicle accidents: Bicycle or car accidents can cause severe dental injuries.
Severe impacts: Blows to the head or mouth area can injure teeth.
Symptoms vary by the type of injury, and commonly include:
Fractured tooth: Part of a tooth is broken or cracked.
Tooth displacement or avulsion: A tooth is loosened or completely knocked out.
Gum bleeding: Bleeding in the gums or surrounding tissues.
Pain and sensitivity: Discomfort in teeth and gums.
Swelling and bruising: Local swelling or discoloration at the injury site.
Quick and correct action is crucial to save the tooth and prevent complications. Important steps:
Stay calm and reassure the child. Keep the child as calm and comfortable as possible.
Clean the mouth gently. Rinse the injured area with clean water. Keep any avulsed tooth or fragments clean and moist.
Save fractured tooth pieces. If a tooth is broken, collect the fragments and place them in a clean container. Rinse the tooth pieces with water—do not scrub or disinfect.
Reposition avulsed tooth if possible. If a permanent tooth has been completely knocked out and you can safely do so, try to place it back in its socket and have the child bite gently to hold it in place. If replantation is not possible, keep the tooth moist in milk or the child’s saliva and seek dental care immediately.
See a dentist immediately. Contact a dentist or emergency department as soon as possible for professional evaluation and treatment.
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the injury. Common options:
Fillings and restorations: Broken teeth can be repaired with composite fillings or crowns to restore appearance and function.
Root canal treatment: If the tooth’s nerve or blood supply is damaged, root canal treatment may be necessary to prevent infection and save the tooth.
Dental implants and prostheses: For permanent tooth loss in older patients, implants or prosthetic solutions may be considered (age and growth must be taken into account).
Tooth splinting: Loose teeth may be temporarily stabilized by bonding them to adjacent teeth (splinting) to support healing.
Surgery: Severe injuries may require surgical repair of the tooth and surrounding tissues.
To reduce the risk of dental trauma:
Use protective equipment: Have children wear mouthguards for contact or high-risk sports.
Reduce fall hazards: Make home and play areas safer to lower the chance of falls.
Practice safe riding: Use helmets and seat belts for bikes and vehicles.
Regular dental checkups: Routine dental visits help maintain oral health and allow for preventive advice.
Dental injuries in children can be effectively managed if treated quickly and correctly. If your child suffers a dental injury, contact a dentist right away for professional care. Regular oral hygiene and preventive measures help protect children from future problems.