Child Toothache and Dental Emergency
When your child is in pain, call first and get clear next steps.
Toothaches, swelling, chipped teeth, and dental injuries can feel scary. North Shore Smiles helps parents understand what needs urgent attention and when a child should be seen.
Call promptly for these symptoms
Some dental symptoms need quick guidance because pain or swelling can worsen. If your child has severe swelling, trouble breathing, trouble swallowing, or a serious facial injury, seek emergency medical care.
- Tooth pain that does not improve or keeps your child awake
- Swelling in the gums, jaw, cheek, or face
- A cracked, broken, loose, or knocked-out tooth
- Fever, drainage, or a bump on the gum near a painful tooth
What parents can do right away
Keep the area clean, avoid chewing on the painful side, and call the office for guidance. Do not place aspirin on the tooth or gums.
- Rinse gently with warm water if your child is old enough to rinse safely
- Use floss gently if food appears stuck between teeth
- Use a cold compress for swelling or injury
- Save tooth fragments and bring them to the visit if a tooth broke
How Dr. Tiana evaluates emergencies
The visit focuses on comfort, diagnosis, and a clear plan. X-rays may be recommended when they help identify decay, infection, fracture, or injury below the surface.
- Gentle exam of the tooth, gums, bite, and surrounding tissue
- Digital X-rays when needed for diagnosis
- Treatment options explained before care begins