Pediatric Emergency Dentistry In Manhattan Beach
Common Dental Emergencies
Chipped Tooth
If your child chips a tooth, try to locate the missing piece. Gently rinse their mouth with warm water, and call us right away for further guidance.
Swelling
Visible swelling in the face or jaw can indicate a serious infection. Call us immediately for a same-day emergency appointment.
Toothache
A toothache may be a sign of dental decay. Children’s Tylenol or Motrin can be given as needed, but avoid any topical numbing medications. Give us a call to schedule an emergency visit.
Cuts or Bites
If your child bites their lip or tongue, clean the area gently with water and apply a cold compress. If bleeding doesn't stop after 15 minutes of firm pressure, head to the ER.
Knocked-Out Tooth
For a knocked-out permanent tooth, keep it moist in milk or saliva and call us right away. We'll do our best to reimplant the tooth if treated within an hour.
Broken Jaw
If you suspect your child has broken their jaw, head to the nearest emergency room immediately. You can reduce swelling with a cold compress on the way.
How We Can Help
At Toothlings, your child's comfort and oral health are our top priorities. Dr. Grant and our team are dedicated to providing the prompt, compassionate emergency care your family deserves.
Dental emergencies rarely happen at convenient times. That's why we reserve space in our schedule for same-day emergency appointments. If your child is experiencing a dental emergency, give us a call and we'll get them in as soon as possible.
If your child experiences a dental emergency outside of our normal business hours, don't panic. Simply call our office and follow the instructions provided. Dr. Grant is available after hours to provide guidance and emergency care as needed.
We understand dental emergencies can be overwhelming for both children and parents. Our team is committed to providing the gentle, compassionate care your child needs to feel safe and at ease. Dr. Grant will thoroughly explain treatment options and answer any questions you may have.
Whenever possible, we use conservative, minimally-invasive treatments to restore your child's damaged teeth. From tooth-colored fillings to dental crowns, we can repair your child's smile while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible.
If your child feels anxious or has trouble sitting still, sedation dentistry can help them relax and get the emergency care they need. We offer safe, effective sedation options ranging from mild laughing gas to general anesthesia. We'll work with you to select the best option for your child's needs.
What to Do in a Dental Emergency
Stay Calm
We know dental emergencies can be frightening, but try to stay calm. Take a deep breath and assess your child's condition. Comforting your child can help them feel safer and more relaxed.
Perform First Aid
Gently clean any injured areas with warm water. Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and alleviate pain. If there's bleeding, apply firm pressure with a clean gauze or cloth.
Call Our Office
Give us a call right away, even if you're unsure whether the situation constitutes an emergency. Our team will asses your child's symptoms and provide guidance on the next steps to take. We'll do our best to see your child as soon as possible, often the same day. If it's after hours, follow the prompts to reach Dr. Grant.
Frequently Asked Questions
While kids will always be kids, there are a few ways parents and caregivers can help minimize their chances of experiencing a dental emergency: Make sure your child wears a mouthguard during contact sports or activities. Child-proof your home to avoid injuries on common household furniture such as coffee tables. Take special care to supervise your child in slippery areas like the bathtub. Establish a dental home for your child by age one and visit us regularly for preventive care.
If your child is experiencing severe pain, excessive bleeding, swelling, or has suffered trauma to the head or mouth, it's best to err on the side of caution and give us a call. We'll ask about your child's symptoms, provide guidance, and determine if an emergency visit is necessary.