Dental Emergencies: What Parents Should Do
We’re here to help when the unexpected happens. If your child has dental pain or an injury, follow the steps below and call our office. We’ll guide you and do our best to offer a priority appointment.
If your child has trouble breathing, uncontrolled bleeding, or a serious head/face injury, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
What Is a True Dental Emergency?
Severe Toothache
Persistent pain, swelling, or fever can signal infection that needs prompt care.
Knocked-Out or Loose Tooth
Adult (permanent) teeth need immediate attention. Baby teeth are handled differently—call us first.
Broken/Chipped Tooth
A cracked or broken tooth may be sensitive or sharp. Save any pieces and call our team.
Soft-Tissue Injury
Lip, cheek, or tongue cuts with bleeding that doesn’t stop after gentle pressure.
Swelling or Abscess
Facial swelling, pimple-like bump on gums, or bad taste may indicate infection.
Lost Filling/Crown (Child)
Cover sharp edges with dental wax or sugar-free gum and call for next steps.
Immediate Steps for Common Situations
Toothache
- Rinse gently with warm water; floss around the sore tooth to remove trapped food.
- Use a cold compress on the cheek for swelling. Do not place aspirin on gums or tooth.
- Call our office if pain persists, wakes your child at night, or swelling/fever is present.
Knocked-Out Permanent Tooth (Adult Tooth)
- Handle by the crown (top), not the root. If dirty, gently rinse with water only—no scrubbing.
- Try to reinsert in the socket and have your child bite gently on gauze.
- If you can’t reinsert, place in cold milk or use a tooth preservation kit. Call us immediately.
Knocked-out baby teeth are usually not reinserted—call us for guidance.
Chipped or Broken Tooth
- Rinse the mouth with warm water; apply a cold compress for swelling.
- Save any broken pieces in milk and bring them to the appointment.
- Cover sharp edges with orthodontic wax if available.
Soft-Tissue Injury (Lip/Cheek/Tongue)
- Apply gentle pressure with clean gauze for 10–15 minutes to control bleeding.
- Use a cold compress to reduce swelling. If bleeding won’t stop, seek urgent care.
Object Stuck Between Teeth
- Gently floss to remove the object—avoid sharp instruments, pins, or metal tools.
- If it won’t come out, call our office for safe removal.
Pain Control & What to Avoid
- Over-the-counter pain relievers may help—follow your pediatrician’s dosing guidance.
- Cold compresses can reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Avoid placing aspirin directly on gums or teeth (can burn tissue).
- Avoid extreme temperatures or hard/sticky foods until seen.
If your child has facial swelling, fever, difficulty swallowing, or trouble breathing, call 911 or go to the ER.
Our Hours & Contact
Just Kids Dental
9669 N Central Expy Suite 290, Dallas, TX 75231
Mon–Thu 8 AM–5 PM • Fri 8 AM–1 PM
We’ll help you navigate the next steps
Call us for guidance—our team will advise you, reserve a priority visit when appropriate, and share at-home tips to keep your child comfortable until you arrive.