How to Handle a Chipped or Broken Tooth in Children

Accidents happen, especially when it comes to kids and their boundless energy. Whether it’s a fall at the playground or a misstep during sports, a chipped or broken tooth can be a startling experience for both children and parents. 

The good news? With the right steps and expert care, your child’s smile can be protected and restored with ease. At Small Smiles Pediatric Dentistry in Garden City, NY, our friendly, knowledgeable team led by board-certified pediatric specialists Dr. Manpreet Dhillon (Dr. D) and Dr. Ravneet Dhillon (Dr. Neet) is here to help guide you every step of the way.

What to Do Immediately After a Tooth Injury

When a tooth breaks or chips, staying calm and responding quickly ensures the best outcome. The first few moments after the injury are crucial, here’s what to do:

• Rinse your child’s mouth with warm water to clean the area and reduce the risk of infection.
• Apply a cold compress on the outside of the cheek to reduce swelling.
• Locate any broken tooth fragments, if possible. Keep them moist in milk or saliva until you can see your pediatric dentist.
• Call your dentist right away, early treatment can make all the difference in saving the tooth.

At Small Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we make it easy to reach us in emergencies. Simply call (516) 324-8047, and our gentle, kid-focused team will walk you through the next steps.

Types of Tooth Damage and What They Mean

Not all dental injuries are the same. The type and extent of damage will determine the course of action, our expert pediatric dentists will assess it thoroughly. Common types of tooth damage include:

• Minor chip: Only a small piece of enamel is missing. Often it's a cosmetic issue that can be smoothed or filled easily.
• Cracked tooth: A fracture that may reach the inner pulp, potentially requiring more advanced treatment such as a baby root canal and a crown.
• Severely broken tooth: Involving enamel, dentin, and pulp, this often causes pain and may need prompt intervention with sedation to ensure your child's comfort.

Our practice is one of the few in the area to offer in-house options including IV sedation, TIVA (Total Intravenous Anesthesia), and general anesthesia, coordinated closely with a licensed anesthesiologist. This allows us to provide safe and stress-free solutions, especially for more complex or anxiety-inducing procedures.

When to See a Pediatric Dentist

While some small chips may not seem urgent, it's always best to consult a pediatric dental specialist any time a tooth is damaged. Here are signs that it’s time to schedule a visit:

• Your child is experiencing pain or sensitivity when eating or drinking.
• The tooth has sharp edges that could cut the tongue or cheek.
• You notice discoloration or signs of infection around the injured tooth.
• The break goes beyond a superficial chip and may involve deeper layers of the tooth.

Board-certified pediatric dentists Dr. D and Dr. Neet don’t just focus on treating the damage, they take the time to reassure and educate kids and parents alike. From comforting care to prizes after each visit, children feel at ease in our welcoming, kid-friendly environment.

How to Prevent Future Tooth Injuries

While some dental injuries are unavoidable, there are everyday steps parents and kids can take to help prevent future incidents:

• Have your child wear a custom-fitted mouthguard during sports or recreational activities.
• Discourage habits like chewing on ice, pencils, or other hard/non-food objects.
• Maintain regular dental checkups to monitor tooth health and catch vulnerabilities early.

Prevention is a key part of our approach at Small Smiles Pediatric Dentistry. We not only treat but also empower families with tools and guidance to protect those tiny teeth well into adulthood.

Compassionate Emergency Pediatric Dental Care in Garden City

If your child has chipped or broken a tooth, don’t wait to get the care they need. At Small Smiles Pediatric Dentistry in Garden City, our experienced team is here to make the process as smooth, and reassuring, as possible. With in-house sedation options, a playful and welcoming environment, and insurance-friendly policies, your child’s comfort and well-being comes first. Call us today at (516) 324-8047 to schedule an emergency or same-day appointment.