From early childhood to adolescence, learning to walk, participating in sports, and a host of other activities can result in chipped baby teeth. While not every chipped tooth is considered a dental emergency, all cases warrant a visit to the dentist’s office sooner rather than later. Discover the best ways to act if your child chips a baby tooth below.

Should You Consider Your Child’s Chipped Tooth a Dental Emergency?

Ask If They’re in Pain

If your child is in pain, take them to a pediatric dentist promptly. Before their appointment, have your child apply a cold compress to the affected area to minimize swelling. Collect any tooth fragments and bring them to the office with you.

Without pain, addressing a chipped baby tooth can typically wait until the dentist’s next available appointment. The treatment will depend on the severity of the chip. While some minor surface fractures may only require filing to create a smooth edge, more pronounced chips may necessitate dental bonding, in which material is bonded to the tooth to preserve its structure.

Watch for Signs of a Problem

Because facial trauma can cause the nerve of the tooth to die slowly, look out for warning signs after chipping. Temporary discoloration in the tooth could indicate bruising, but lasting discoloration could be a sign of infection. Parents should also note any complaints of facial pain, redness or pus along the gum line, and fever.  

Whether your child has a dental emergency or needs an experienced pediatric dentist for preventive services, trust the team at Pedodontic Associates to provide quality oral wellness care for your little one. They’ve served Oahu and Maui, HI, for more than 25 years, specializing in care for infants, children, and adolescents. You can browse additional pediatric dentistry resources on their website. Call (808) 735-1733 to schedule an appointment for your child in their Honolulu office, (808) 487-7933 for Aiea, and (808) 877-0066 for Kahului.