Tooth injury: First aid

Injuries to children’s teeth are common. Injuries can range from minor chipping to a knocked-out tooth. Both baby teeth and permanent teeth can be injured.

When giving first aid treatment to a toddler or young child with a tooth injury, the goal is to prevent additional harm to the permanent teeth that are developing below the baby teeth.

Causes of tooth injuries

Children may injure their teeth as a result of falls, playground accidents, flying objects such as frisbees and balls, or sport-related injuries.

Types of tooth injuries

Your child may have the following type of tooth injury:

• a minor chip
• a major chip
• a serious fracture that exposes the nerve and blood vessels in the centre of the tooth
• a displaced tooth, in which the tooth is forced upward, downward or to the side
• a knocked out (avulsed) tooth.

How tooth injuries are treated

If your child has a loose tooth or a minor chip, take them to the dentist. Your child’s dentist will assess the damage and smooth any sharp edges.

A broken, loosened or knocked out permanent tooth is considered an emergency. For a completely knocked-out tooth, gently rinse the permanent tooth in water and immediately place it back in the tooth socket before you take your child to the dentist. In some cases, a knocked-out permanent tooth can be saved if it is replaced right away in its proper position in the mouth. Your child should keep the tooth in place with a finger or by biting on a gauze pad.

If you cannot put the tooth back into the tooth socket, place it in a cup of milk. Do not place the tooth in water, carbonated soda or salt water. Pack the cup in a cooler with some ice and take it and your child to the dentist right away.