Category: Emergency Dental

What Is a Dental Emergency?

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

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Knowing when to visit an emergency pediatric dentist can help your child avoid preventable pain, ease your worry, and even save you money in the long run. As the top kids’ dentist in Greenville, NC, Wilson Pediatric Dentistry can provide rapid assessments and care for various timely situations like knocked-out teeth, abscesses, or swelling. Learn when to visit your emergency dentist in Greenville and rest easy.

What Is an Emergency Pediatric Dentist?

An emergency pediatric dentist addresses sudden, painful, and urgent dental needs within a 24-hour window, giving your children quick relief and treatment and preventing conditions from deteriorating. At Wilson Pediatric Dentistry, we have a designated emergency hotline specifically for scheduling and getting your children in as quickly as possible.

Emergency dentistry covers a wide range of different ailments and situations, ranging from abscessed, impacted teeth to sports accidents. It also encompasses damaged or lost crowns, loose fillings, and chips. It can also be highly preventative, as chipped or cracked teeth could develop dangerous and painful abscesses and require root canals or total extraction.

When to See an Emergency Dentist in Greenville

If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s oral health, we encourage you to get in touch. Our team can help determine what sort of care they need and whether an emergency appointment is necessary. Our priority if your care, and every case is different. There are, however, some situations that almost certainly require emergency care.

Chipped Teeth

Cracked or chipped teeth can be initially painful, but the real danger with damaged teeth is that bacteria can get into the crack and form an infection. Intensive dental care is often required when this happens. If your child chips or cracks their tooth, give us a call. We will be able to fully assess the situation and determine whether immediate dental care is required.

Missing Teeth

While chips and cracks happen occasionally, knocked-out teeth are a much more traumatic experience and can be more painful for your child. If possible, it’s essential to find and keep the tooth and contact our team immediately. Put the tooth in some milk to preserve it for as long as possible while waiting for your appointment.

Swollen Jaw

Swelling can be problematic and often constitutes a dental emergency. If your child experiences a facial injury, is having trouble talking, chewing, or moving their mouth, or has a lot of swelling, it’s time to give us a call.

Abscess

Abscesses are oral infections that generally manifest themselves in swelling and pus. They can be very painful for your child and require immediate emergency dental care. Abscesses can form from untreated chips and cracks and can worsen if not immediately treated by our team.

The Top Choice for Pediatric Dentists in Greenville

Get in touch if your child has dental pain, swelling, or missing or cracked teeth. Our team will answer any questions, talk you through treatment, and get your child an appointment as soon as possible if appropriate. For peace of mind and excellent care, call Wilson Pediatric Dentistry at 252-291-4300.

Why Pediatric Dentists Outshine Regular Dentists

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

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When it comes to your child’s dental care, you may wonder if it’s necessary to seek out a pediatric dentist instead of a regular dentist. Let’s explore the key differences that make a pediatric dentist in Greenville, NC, the ideal choice for your little one.

 

Pediatric Dentists: The Right Choice For Kids

 

Additional Training and Expertise

Pediatric dentists undergo rigorous training beyond dental school, focusing specifically on children’s unique dental needs. They acquire in-depth knowledge of child development, including oral growth and behavior management techniques. They are equipped to address the changing needs of young patients. 

 

Knowledge of Child Development

Dentists who study pediatrics understand that children’s dental needs evolve as they grow. They possess the expertise to anticipate and address these changes, ensuring that your child’s dental care is always tailored to their specific stage of development. By considering factors such as teething, thumb-sucking habits, and the eruptions of permanent teeth, they offer tailored solutions to support healthy dental development.

 

Child-Centered Approach

These professionals prioritize creating a friendly and welcoming environment that puts children at ease. They know how to communicate with young patients effectively, using easily understandable language and explanations. By fostering a positive and comfortable dental experience, they help children develop a lifelong appreciation for oral health.

 

Specialized Equipment

Dentists specializing in pediatrics have an arsenal of tools specifically designed for children’s dental care. From smaller instruments to gentle x-ray techniques, these professionals ensure that your child receives the most accurate diagnosis and the least discomfort during procedures.

 

Strong Communication Skills

Pediatric dentists excel in connecting with both children and parents, explaining procedures and addressing any concerns or questions. Their ability to build rapport and establish trust helps create a positive dental experience for the child and a sense of reassurance for parents.

 

Better Results

 

Early Detection

Pediatric dentists have a keen eye for detecting even the subtlest hints of dental problems. Their thorough examinations encompass a comprehensive evaluation of teeth, gums, and overall oral health.

 

Early Intervention

By detecting and addressing dental issues early on, dentists specializing in pediatrics can intervene promptly when necessary. They can address oral habits like thumb-sucking, tongue thrusting, or pacifier use that can impact dental development. 

 

Early Prevention

Prevention is always better than cure, and these specialists focus on educating both children and parents about proper oral hygiene practices. They teach children to brush and floss effectively, instilling good habits from an early age. Additionally, they offer preventative treatments like dental sealants and fluoride applications to protect your child’s teeth from decay.

 

By choosing a dentist specializing in pediatrics, you’re giving your child the advantage of focused care, early detection, intervention, and prevention, in a positive environment.  Please make an appointment with Wilson Pediatric Dentistry today, and together, let’s ensure that your child’s smile shines brightly for years to come.

 

Learning About Pediatric Dentist Emergency Care with Wilson Pediatrics

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

You want to do everything you can to protect your child, and that includes being able to help them in an emergency situation. When your child needs emergency dental care, you must know how to respond. Read on for some tips from a pediatric dentist about how to handle your child’s dental emergency.

What Is a Dental Emergency?

A dental emergency is any dental situation that requires immediate attention. Pediatric dental emergencies come in many different forms. For instance, tooth decay that is left untreated could grow severe enough to become an emergency. A cut on the lips or gums that becomes infected could also constitute a dental emergency.

Other dental emergencies are caused by sudden trauma. These include broken or fractured teeth, teeth that have been knocked out, or a broken jaw. All of these events cause acute pain and need to be treated by a dental professional as soon as possible.

What to Do In a Dental Emergency

Stay Calm and Act Fast

Although your child experiencing a dental emergency is frightening, it’s important that you keep a cool head so that you can handle the situation properly. Panicking will only make the experience more traumatic for your child, so maintain your composure to help ease their stress.

One of the best ways you can keep your child calm in this distressing event is knowing what to do when responding to the situation. Keep contact information on hand for pediatric emergency dental care. This will allow you to respond promptly, reassuring your child that you know what to do to help them.

Call for Emergency Dental Care Immediately

Acting fast is vital in a dental emergency. The sooner you get the emergency treated, the better the results will be for your child. Acting fast may enable dental professionals to save any teeth that were damaged in the emergency.

Contact Wilson Pediatric Dentistry for help in a dental emergency and all your other pediatric needs. We’re standing by to provide the high-quality care that your child deserves. 

Types of Pediatric Dental Emergencies

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

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Any health emergency should be taken seriously, and dental emergencies are no exception. But what is considered a dental emergency and what should be done in the event of one?

 

Any dental problem that puts the future of a tooth in jeopardy, causes ongoing tissue bleeding, or severe pain is considered to be a dental emergency and should be immediately addressed. 

 

If your child is experiencing a dental emergency, call Wilson Pediatric Dentistry immediately at (252) 291-4300. 

 

Below are some common types of dental emergencies and the appropriate actions for each. 

Common Types of Dental Emergencies

Knocked out tooth

Every year, more than five million teeth are knocked out in children and adults. Sports and general roughhousing are the most common culprits. 

 

What to do:

 

  1. Pick up the tooth by the crown (the top). Do not touch the root.
  2. Rinse off the tooth, but don’t scrub it or remove any attached tissue. 
  3. Try to place the tooth back into the socket and hold it in place until you get to the dentist. If you are unable to do so, place it in a cup of milk. 
  4. Call your dentist immediately. If you’re near Wilson, North Carolina, call Wilson Pediatric Dentistry. Time is of the essence for a knocked out tooth. 

Chipped or fractured tooth

A tooth that becomes cracked or chipped on the outside has often suffered some internal damage as well that can put the tooth’s health in danger. 

 

What to do:

 

  1. Rinse out your mouth with warm water. 
  2. Use a cold compress to minimize any swelling if facial trauma was involved. 
  3. You may take acetaminophen to alleviate pain. 
  4. Make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. 

Injuries to the mouth

Punctures, tears, and cuts to the lips, cheeks, gums, mouth, or tongue can constitute a dental emergency when severe.

 

What to do: 

 

  1. Clean the affected area with warm water.
  2. Apply pressure to the wound with gauze. 
  3. Take acetaminophen for pain.
  4. Get to an oral surgeon or emergency room as soon as possible.

Oral infection

Most infections of the mouth are not considered to be emergencies. But if you experience swelling around the jawline or under your mouth and have difficulty breathing or swallowing, it may qualify as a dental emergency. 

 

What to do:

 

  1. Take acetaminophen for pain and swelling.
  2. Contact your dentist. 

Contact Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

If your child is experiencing a dental emergency, call us right away to schedule a same-day appointment today. Dental emergencies can lead to long-term damage if they’re not addressed right away, and the team at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry is standing by to help.  

 

    

Is Your Child Having a Dental Emergency? Here’s What to Do

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

A tooth, dentist tool, and first aid kit, denoting a dental emergency.

A dental emergency can be a scary situation, but the good news is that most of them can be resolved with a visit to the dentist.

There are steps you can take before you arrive to ensure your child’s health and safety. If your child is experiencing a dental emergency right now, contact us immediately at (252) 291-4300.

What is Considered a Dental Emergency?

There are many different types of dental emergencies. The most common situations include:

  • Tooth is knocked out or becomes loose due to injury
  • Tooth is cracked or chipped
  • Severe tooth pain
  • Severe bleeding, especially after an injury
  • Tooth abscess
  • Oral/facial swelling

Minor toothaches, lost fillings, and food that gets stuck between teeth are not usually considered dental emergencies, so it’s safe to wait for an appointment in those situations. If you’re not sure if your child should see a dentist right away, go ahead and give us a call just to be safe.

What to Do in the Event of a Dental Emergency

The first thing you need to do in any emergency is call the dentist’s office. Dentists reserve time in their schedule to accommodate emergency situations. Explain in full detail what happened and what symptoms your child is experiencing so the office can refer you to the best care.

If the office is closed or the dentist is not available, call first thing the next morning. If it is a life-threatening situation, such as a serious cut or infection, or your child is having trouble breathing or swallowing, head to the hospital emergency room.

Knocked-Out Tooth

If it is a baby tooth, retrieve the tooth and keep it moist in a glass of milk until you can see the dentist. They may want to implant it. If it’s a permanent tooth, follow the same steps. Avoid touching the root. Get to the dentist as soon as possible, preferably within an hour of the accident occurring.

Cracked Tooth

If a tooth is cracked, rinse out the mouth with warm water. Place an ice pack or cold compress to the face to help reduce swelling. Then, get to the dentist right away.

Bleeding

If your child’s gum, tongue, or lip is bleeding, gently clean the area with water. If the bleeding doesn’t stop, go to the dentist or emergency room as soon as possible.

Call Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

When a dental emergency happens, try to remain calm, call Wilson Pediatric Dentistry, and follow the steps listed above. Our office offers emergency dental services in Wilson, NC, to treat most conditions and help keep your child’s mouth healthy.

Emergency Dental Care at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

There are a number of ways your child can injure their mouth or damage their teeth. Whether it’s a sports injury or from biting down too hard on a piece of food, teeth can become cracked, dislodged, and broken. Plus, gums can bleed from lacerations and other damage. If these injuries are not treated immediately, they can sometimes lead to serious complications.

Wondering when your child might require emergency dental care? Read through our frequently asked questions (FAQ) below and seek assistance from Wilson Pediatric Dentistry if you’re in need of emergency dental care in Wilson, North Carolina.

FAQ: Does My Child Need Emergency Dental Care?

What do I do about a cracked or broken tooth?

Depending on the severity and the level of pain your child experiences, you can either call for an emergency appointment or schedule an appointment during normal business hours. Cracked or chipped teeth do not typically require emergency services, but if a large piece of the tooth is missing or the tooth is knocked out completely, you should seek immediate care.

Do not get rid of the tooth. Instead, store it in a container of milk or your child’s saliva until he or she can be seen by a dentist.

What if my child’s gums are bleeding?

Bleeding gums can arise for a number of reasons — especially while brushing or flossing the teeth. Gums bleed during the early stages of Gingivitis because of plaque buildup that causes receding and inflamed gums. Bleeding gums can also be due to a vitamin C or vitamin K deficiency.

These scenarios are not always emergencies but should be discussed with the dentist when you bring your child for their next appointment. Encourage your child to continue brushing and flossing, even if it does make the gums bleed.

What happens if my child has a toothache?

Toothaches can be tricky to diagnose without seeing a dentist. Causes range from a cavity to a serious infection. When chewing, biting, and even talking become painful for your child, contact a medical professional immediately.

Whether the pain is from grinding teeth or something more serious, it will likely not go away on its own. For instance, an abscess tooth can cause a tremendous amount of pain, resulting in swelling, inflamed gums, and even a fever. An abscess tooth is caused by tooth decay and can be treated by different options, including antibiotics and a root canal procedure.

Find Emergency Dental Services in Wilson, NC

Are you looking for a pediatric dentist near you that also offers emergency dental services? Wilson Pediatric Dentistry is conveniently located in Wilson — near Kenly and Rocky Mount. Schedule an appointment online today, or call our office.

How to Know When Your Child is Having a Dental Emergency

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

young girl at a dentist appointment, pediatric dental emergency

 

If your child is experiencing a dental emergency, CONTACT WILSON PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY IMMEDIATELY AT (252) 291-4300 for same-day dental care.

Few things are worse than seeing your child in pain. As a parent, you want to do whatever you can to keep your child healthy. With all the playing and exploring kids do, pediatric dental emergencies are not uncommon, and an important part of protecting your daughter or son’s dental health is knowing how to react when they happen.

Here are some common examples of pediatric dental emergencies, so you know what to do and when to contact your pediatric dentist for emergency treatment.

What is a Pediatric Dental Emergency?

A pediatric dental emergency is any unexpected dental issue that requires immediate attention or treatment.

Many of these problems come with extreme pain. Some emergencies can even impact the way new teeth come in. Here are some of the most common pediatric dental emergencies we experience in our office.

Lost Tooth

If your child suddenly and unexpectedly loses a tooth, they should see their pediatric dentist immediately.

If you’re able to find the tooth, keep it. Make sure the tooth stays moist with milk, salt water, or saliva during the drive to the dentist. If your child is older, you can put the tooth back in the socket or have them hold it in their mouths. Avoid this with younger children, as they may swallow the tooth.

If the lost tooth is permanent, we will do our best to try to reintroduce it. The faster we can act, the more likely the procedure is to be successful.

If your daughter or son unexpectedly loses a baby tooth, we will not typically try to replace the tooth, even if it was lost very early. This is because reintroduction may harm the incoming permanent tooth bud. You should still bring your child in for emergency dental treatment, so that the damage can be assessed.

Chipped or Broken Teeth

With kids constantly rough-housing sometimes teeth end up chipped or broken. Whether the fracture occurs in the crown or fracture, the pain is usually considerable.

Treat the tooth with a cold compress and children’s pain medicine. Next, call Wilson Pediatric Dentistry for emergency dental care.

Tooth Pain

Chances are, if your little one’s teeth hurt, they won’t be able to verbalize specific causes of the pain. Toothaches come from a variety of issues ranging from the routine to severe. Some common causes are:

  • Food stuck in the teeth
  • Cavities
  • Trauma
  • Tooth fracture
  • Tooth eruption

Check your child’s mouth for abnormalities, and have them rinse. If the pain persists, take them in for treatment.

Displaced Teeth

Sometimes teeth don’t get knocked out but knocked around. Whether they become impacted or made crooked, displacement can have a negative impact on future development and requires immediate attention. Treat the tooth with a cold compress while you’re on the way to the office.

Dental Abscess

A tooth abscess is a nasty infection occurring in the roots your child’s tooth. If left unchecked, this infection can spread to other parts of the body. Some signs to look out for include:

  • Severe tooth, jaw, or gum pain
  • Swollen gums
  • Fever
  • Bad taste in mouth
  • Bad breath

If your child is experiencing any of these issues, don’t waste time. The faster you act, the sooner they’ll be smiling again! Wilson Pediatric Dentistry in North Carolina offers same-day emergency appointments during business hours. Call us at (252) 291-4300.