Protecting Your Child’s Smile: Tips for Preventing and Handling Dental Emergencies
One of a parent’s greatest fears is their child having an accident that damages their front teeth. It’s quite common for children to fall off their bikes or get hit while playing sports, resulting in a broken tooth or, in the worst-case scenario, a tooth being knocked out completely. When this happens, parents naturally want to contact their dentist immediately for advice and treatment to restore their child’s smile. Spires Oral is always available to provide that crucial support.
Tips to Prevent Dental Injuries
- Use Protective Gear: Ensure your child wears a customized gum shield for all contact sports and a helmet for activities that require one. This can significantly reduce the risk of dental injuries.
What to Do If a Tooth Is Knocked Out
- Handle with Care: Avoid touching the root of the tooth.
- Clean Gently: Rinse the tooth with saline solution to remove any dirt or debris.
- Reposition or Store Safely: If possible, place the tooth back into its socket. If not, store it in the cheek (if the child is old enough) or in a container of milk or saline solution.
- Seek Immediate Dental Care: Contact your dentist and aim to get emergency treatment within 90 minutes for the best chance of saving the tooth.
By following these tips and knowing what to do in an emergency, you can help protect your child’s smile and ensure they receive the best possible care when accidents happen.
Donna O’Shea is the proud new owner of Spires Oral Care, bringing a wealth of experience and passion for dentistry to the practice.
A graduate of Queen’s University Belfast in 2012, Donna further honed her skills with specialized training in London and Yorkshire. Her career has taken her on remarkable adventures, including a transformative two-month experience in the mountains of Ethiopia, where she looked after patients who underwent facial reconstructive surgery.
After spending two enriching years in New Zealand, Donna returned to the England, dedicating seven years to dental practice in Yorkshire before making her way back home to take the reins at Spires Oral Care.
In her free time, Donna enjoys hiking, cooking, and creating cherished memories with her children. She has a particular passion for working with composite materials in dentistry, as she thrives on helping patients regain their confidence and achieve their best smiles.
Welcome to Spires Oral Care, where Donna’s commitment to excellence and patient care truly shines!