Dental Injuries in Children


Injuries to baby teeth occur at 1 to 3 years of age as children begin to walk and become active. Front teeth are most vulnerable. Automobile accidents are another major cause of dental injuries in children, especially if they are unrestrained. In the event that a tooth is chipped or broken, it is important to see your dentist as soon as possible for a careful evaluation and corrective treatments. Often a main consideration in these injuries is the child's tetanus protection status. A tetanus booster may be necessary if the child has not received one in the past year. In older children, one tooth may completely drops out of its socket as a results of an accident. In this case, wash it with water to get the dirt off (do not scrub it), orient the tooth by comparing it to the adjacent teeth, and gently insert it to the socket and go immediately to your dentist. Your dentist may be able to salvage the tooth. If you are unable to insert the tooth to its socket, because of child discomfort or other reasons, place the tooth in a cup and cover it with the child's saliva and go to your dentist immediately.


Copyright (c) by Dr. Susan Partovi