Tooth trauma – parent tips

Statistically, one child in ten experiences tooth trauma.

In case of primary tooth trauma, the permanent tooth follicle may be damaged. Severe tooth impact may cause delayed complications if it is not properly attended to. It is important to observe the tooth after the trauma for discoloration and vitality. Even a slight trauma may disturb tooth blood flow which causes tooth nerve loss, dark discoloration or other color change or even tooth loss from complications. Sometimes the fractured fragment may be reattached to the tooth. Such fragment should be transported properly. When a tooth is knocked out of its socket, it is important to find it, even though it fell on the ground or into a puddle. The child should be calmed down, given pain relief medication if possible, and cold applied. The lost tooth should not be washed, cleaned or otherwise affected mechanically. It should be put into a transportation medium. It can be the child’s mouth (under the tongue) or warm pasteurized milk.

The lost tooth must not be kept dry.