A broken tooth is every parent’s nightmare—especially when it happens without warning. Whether from a fall, sports injury, or an accidental bite into something hard, dental trauma can strike at any time. Luckily, with the right steps and the help of the best emergency dentist in the Bronx, you can prevent further damage and help your child receive the care they need quickly.
1. Stay Calm (and Help Your Child Stay Calm Too!)
Before anything, take a deep breath and try to calm your racing heart. Your child is likely scared and in pain, and if they see you panic, they’ll probably panic too. Your reaction sets the tone, so try to comfort them, check for bleeding, and reassure them that help is on the way.
In most cases, a broken tooth can be treated and repaired—especially if caught early. If there is a lot of bleeding, have your child gently bite down on a piece of clean gauze or a damp cloth to reduce it. To reduce swelling, apply a cold compress to the outside of the cheek.
2. Locate the Tooth Fragment
If any of the teeth have broken off, try to locate them. Place the fragment in a clean container containing milk or salt water. Avoid using tap water unless it is your only option. This step may make it easier for the emergency dentist to reattach the fragment, particularly in cases of clean breaks.
Avoid wiggling loose or pushed-out teeth. Keep your child from touching the area and contact a dentist immediately.
3. Rinse Gently, but Don’t Scrub
If there’s any visible debris or dirt, gently rinse your child’s mouth with warm water. Do not scrub the injured tooth or gum. Avoid using hydrogen peroxide or alcohol-based mouthwashes, as they can irritate exposed nerves or gum tissue.
The goal here is to keep the area clean without exacerbating the injury.
4. Manage the Pain Safely
Most children with a broken tooth will feel some discomfort. You can administer an age-appropriate over-the-counter pain reliever, such as children's acetaminophen or ibuprofen, but never apply aspirin directly to the gums or teeth, as it can cause burns to sensitive tissue.
Cold compresses on the face and a quiet, calm environment can also help alleviate discomfort until your dentist can provide additional care.
5. Call an Emergency Dentist in the Bronx Immediately
Timing is critical. The sooner your child is seen, the better the chance of saving the tooth and preventing complications, such as infection or nerve damage. If you’re searching for a trusted emergency dentist in the Bronx, look for one who:
- Specializes in pediatric care
- Offers same-day appointments
- Has experience with traumatic dental injuries
- Is calm, patient, and great with kids
Your emergency dentist will assess the damage, take X-rays if necessary, and recommend the most suitable treatment. This could include bonding, a crown, or, in severe cases, a root canal or extraction.
When in Doubt, Don’t Wait. Visit an Emergency Dentist in the Bronx
Even if the tooth does not appear to be severely damaged, pain, discoloration, or swelling may indicate deeper trauma. Err on the side of caution and contact your dentist at East Tremont Dental. Our team offers same-day appointments, gentle care, and extensive experience treating children's dental injuries. Contact us, and we'll get your child's smile back to its best!