Tooth Emergencies 101: What to Do if Your Child Chips or Knocks Out a Tooth

When it comes to parenting, accidents are inevitable. One moment your child is racing across the playground, and the next, there’s a chipped or knocked-out tooth. Dental emergencies in kids can be stressful, but with the right knowledge and quick action, you can help protect their smile and minimize long-term issues.

At Doctor Sugar Pediatric Dentistry in Paradise Valley, AZ, we see a variety of dental injuries—and we’re here to help parents feel prepared, not panicked. Here’s what you need to know about handling dental accidents in children.

Common Types of Dental Injuries in Kids

Chipped or Fractured Teeth
These are often caused by falls or sports injuries. Small chips may only affect the enamel, while deeper fractures can expose the sensitive inner layers of the tooth.

Dislodged or Knocked-Out Teeth
This can happen during rough play or accidents. A tooth can be completely knocked out (avulsed) or pushed out of position.

Cut or Bitten Tongue, Lips, or Cheeks
These soft tissue injuries often accompany a tooth injury and may bleed heavily.

What to Do in a Dental Emergency

1. Stay Calm and Comfort Your Child

Your reaction sets the tone. Offer reassurance and assess the situation. If your child is in pain, bleeding, or frightened, your calm presence will help.

2. Assess the Damage

Look inside their mouth. Is the tooth broken or missing? Is there bleeding? Take note of whether it’s a baby tooth or a permanent one.

3. If a Tooth Is Knocked Out:

Baby Tooth:
Do not try to reinsert it. Call your pediatric dentist immediately. Although baby teeth aren’t meant to last forever, premature loss can affect future alignment and speech development.

Permanent Tooth:

Handle it by the crown (not the root).

Rinse gently with water (no scrubbing).

Try to reinsert the tooth into the socket if possible.

If not, place it in a cup of milk or saline solution.

Get to a dentist within 30 minutes if possible.

4. If a Tooth Is Chipped or Cracked:

Rinse your child’s mouth with warm water.

Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.

Save any pieces of the tooth if possible.

Contact your pediatric dentist for an urgent appointment.

5. Control Bleeding

Use gauze or a clean cloth to apply gentle pressure to the affected area. If bleeding persists for more than 10 minutes, seek medical attention.

Why Immediate Dental Care Matters

Prompt treatment reduces the risk of infection, saves damaged teeth, and prevents complications like misalignment or developmental issues in the mouth. At Doctor Sugar Pediatric Dentistry, we prioritize emergency visits and help kids feel safe and cared for during stressful moments.

Preventing Dental Injuries

Always use a mouthguard during sports.

Baby-proof sharp edges and hard furniture at home.

Supervise playtime, especially on playgrounds or bikes.

Educate kids on safe behavior and what to do if they get hurt.

Trust Doctor Sugar in Paradise Valley, AZ

Whether it’s a tiny chip or a major injury, the team at Doctor Sugar is experienced in kids dentistry and emergency care. We’re here to support you with expert guidance, quick appointments, and compassionate care—because your child’s smile is worth protecting.

If your child experiences a dental emergency, call our Paradise Valley office right away. We’re here to help—when you need us most.