What is the Best Way to Address Dental Trauma in Children?

What is Dental Trauma?

Dental trauma is a dental injury, and a fall, sports injury, or car accident can cause it. The most common injuries are broken and chipped teeth, which can result in cuts and bruises to the face and mouth.

The risk factors for dental trauma in children include:

• Children who participate in sports and other vigorous physical activities.
• Poor oral hygiene habits can lead to tooth decay and periodontal disease.
• Orthodontic appliances that place pressure on the jaw (i.e., braces)

While it’s essential to be aware of the risk factors for dental trauma and what causes it, it is equally important to understand that these injuries are not always preventable or unavoidable. If your child experiences a severe dental injury, you may need to visit an emergency trauma dentist in Houston.

What are the Causes of Dental Trauma?

Several things can cause dental trauma, but the most common cause is falls. Children are more likely to fall than adults; when they do, their mouths can be the first point of contact with the ground. This can cause teeth to become chipped, cracked, or knocked out entirely. They may also experience lacerations or abrasions on the lips/tongue.

Other causes of dental trauma in children include car accidents, sports injuries, and physical abuse. Dental trauma may also be caused by a medical condition such as cancer or osteoporosis.

What are the Common Symptoms of Dental Trauma in children?

The most common symptoms of dental trauma in children are:

• The pain of dental trauma can be severe.
• Dental trauma can cause swelling in the gums, lips, and cheeks. This may make it difficult for the child to eat or drink.
• Dental trauma can also cause bleeding from the gums or lips. This can be very scary for both the child and the parent.
• Bruising is another common symptom of dental trauma in children. The bruise may be on the outside of the mouth or the inside of the cheek.
• In some cases, dental trauma can result in tooth loss. This is usually a permanent condition and can devastate the child.

How to Address Dental Trauma in Children?

When a child experiences dental trauma, the first thing that you should do is call your dentist or seek trauma management in Houston for immediate medical attention. Your dentist can determine whether or not any damage has occurred and what should be done about it.

• • Check the obvious damage, bleeding, or changes in color.

If your child does suffer a fall, the first thing you should do is check their mouth for any injuries. If you see any blood or teeth knocked out, it is vital to seek professional medical attention immediately.

It is also essential to control any bleeding that may be occurring in the mouth by applying pressure with a clean cloth or gauze pad. Once the bleeding has stopped, apply a cold compress to any swollen areas.

• • Rinse the teeth

If you can safely retrieve the tooth that has been lost, be sure to handle it by the crown (the white part) and not the root. Rinse off the tooth with milk or water and insert it back into the socket if possible. If this is not possible, store the tooth in a clean container with milk or saliva until you can get to a dentist.

• • Manage the pain

Pain medications can be administered as directed if your child experiences any pain as a result of their dental trauma. But, ensure your dentist immediately for proper treatment.

How to Prevent Dental Traumas?

One of the most common ways dental trauma occurs in children is through falls. Common ways to prevent this type of dental trauma are to ensure that your child always wears a properly fitting mouth guard when participating in any sport. Furthermore, maintain proper dental hygiene to prevent decay and weakening of the enamel. Additionally, visit the dentist regularly for cleaning and fluoride treatment.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Greenway Pediatric Dentistry for more information about dental trauma and what to expect.