Posted on 4/1/2025 by Tiny Teeth Pediatric Dentistry
As a parent, there are few things more alarming than seeing your child in pain, especially if it involves an injury to their mouth. Chipped or cracked teeth can be especially concerning, as they can be painful and may lead to further complications if not addressed promptly.
It’s important to remember to stay calm in case this happens. By taking immediate action and following the right steps, you can help your child feel better and minimize the damage to their tooth.
What to Do
1. Assess the Situation
First, check your child for any other injuries and make sure they are not in immediate danger. Once you’ve confirmed they are safe, take a closer look at the chipped tooth.
2. Locate the Chipped Piece, If Possible
If you can find the chipped piece of tooth, save it. Rinse it gently with water and bring it with you to the dentist.
3. Rinse Your Child’s Mouth
Have your child rinse their mouth with warm water to remove any debris. If there is any bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean gauze pad until it stops.
4. Contact Your Pediatric Dentist Immediately
Call your pediatric dentist as soon as possible to explain the situation and schedule an appointment. They will be able to assess the damage and recommend the best course of treatment.
What Not to Do
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Don’t Panic: Staying calm is crucial, both for your own sake and for your child’s.
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Don’t Apply Medication: Unless directed by your dentist, avoid putting any medication on the chipped tooth.
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Don’t Force the Chipped Piece Back On: If you have the chipped piece, don’t try to reattach it yourself.
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Don’t Wait to See a Dentist: Even if the chip seems minor, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible to prevent further damage and infection.
Prevention
While accidents happen, there are steps you can take to help prevent chipped teeth in your child:
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Regular Dental Checkups: Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral health and identifying potential problems early on.
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Mouthguards: If your child plays sports, encourage them to wear a mouthguard to protect their teeth from impact.
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Healthy Diet: Encourage your child to eat a healthy diet low in sugary drinks and snacks that can contribute to tooth decay and weaken tooth enamel.
Conclusion
Chipped or cracked teeth can be scary, but with the right care, your child can recover quickly and avoid further complications. By following these steps and being proactive about your child’s oral health, you can help them maintain a healthy and beautiful smile for years to come.
Blog - Wichita, KS • Tiny Teeth Pediatric Dentistry At Tiny Teeth Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Healy created this informative blog to assist with educating the community about various topics of pediatric dentistry. Tiny Teeth Pediatric Dentistry, 3933 N. Maize Road, Suite 200 Wichita, KS 67101 : (316) 202-9629 : tinyteethwichita.com : 4/16/2025 : Key Phrases: Pediatric Dentist Wichita KS :
As a parent, there are few things more alarming than seeing your child in pain, especially if it involves an injury to their mouth. Chipped or cracked teeth can be especially concerning, as they can be painful and may lead to further complications if not addressed promptly.