Dental Problems at School: What Parents Should Know
Kids run, play, participate in sports, and occasionally have accidents. With everyone back at school in September, knowing what to do when a dental problem happens can help parents respond calmly and quickly.
What If Your Child Chips a Tooth?
If your child chips or breaks a tooth, contact their dentist as soon as possible. If you can find the broken piece, keep it and bring it with you. Rinsing the mouth gently with water can help keep the area clean until your child is seen.
Be Prepared for Sports
Children participating in contact sports or activities where falls are possible may benefit from wearing a properly fitted mouthguard. Protecting the teeth before an accident happens is much easier than treating an avoidable injury afterward.
Know When to Call the Dentist
Tooth pain, swelling, sensitivity, or an injury shouldn’t simply be ignored because your child is busy with school. Early evaluation can help determine what’s causing the problem and whether treatment is needed.
FAQ
What should I do if my child knocks out a permanent tooth?
Contact a dentist immediately. Hold the tooth by the crown rather than the root and avoid scrubbing it. Prompt professional care is important.
Does my child need a mouthguard for school sports?
A mouthguard is especially important for contact sports and activities with a risk of falls or impact to the face.
Should my child go to school with a toothache?
Persistent or significant tooth pain should be evaluated by a dentist rather than simply waiting for it to go away.
Have questions about keeping your child’s teeth healthy during the school year? Our team is happy to help with personalized preventive care and routine checkups. Schedule an appointment today.