A toothache can signal decay, infection, or an injury beneath the surface. Early care almost always means simpler treatment.

1. Rinse your child’s mouth gently with warm water.
2. Gently floss to remove any food caught between teeth.
3. Apply a cold compress to the outside of the cheek if swollen.
4. Give age-appropriate pain relief (children’s ibuprofen or acetaminophen) as directed.
5. Do NOT place aspirin directly on the tooth or gums.
6. Call KidSmiles for a same-day or next-day evaluation.

Soft tissue injuries in the mouth can bleed significantly. Stay calm — most are manageable at home with the right steps.

1. Apply gentle, steady pressure with clean gauze or cloth.
2. Use a cold compress on the outside of the lip or cheek to reduce swelling.
3. If bleeding does not slow within 10–15 minutes, go to your nearest ER.
4. Call our office — a tooth may also have been injured even if it’s not obvious.

1. Pick up the tooth by the crown (white part) — never touch the root.
2. If dirty, rinse gently with milk or clean water. Do NOT scrub.
3. If possible, gently reinsert into the socket and bite softly on clean gauze.
4. If reinsertion isn’t possible, store in milk, saline, or saliva. Do NOT use plain tap water.
5. Call KidSmiles immediately and come in. Every minute matters.

1. Apply gentle pressure with gauze to slow any bleeding.
2. Keep the tooth and bring it to the appointment — but do NOT reinsert it.
3. Comfort your child. A cold compress helps with swelling.
4. Note when and how the injury happened.
5. Call KidSmiles so we can confirm the permanent tooth is unaffected.

Chips range from a minor enamel nick to a fracture near the nerve. Even without pain, it needs to be evaluated.

1. Rinse your child’s mouth with warm water.
2. Save any tooth fragments and bring them to the appointment.
3. Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling or discomfort.
4. If there’s significant pain, bleeding, or a dark spot on the tooth (possible nerve exposure), call us immediately.
5. Call KidSmiles for a same-day or next-day evaluation.

1. Do NOT attempt to drain or pop the abscess at home.
2. Rinse with mild warm saltwater for temporary comfort.
3. Call KidSmiles immediately for a same-day appointment.
4. If swelling affects breathing or swallowing, go to the emergency room.

Something lodged between teeth can cause pain and, if left too long, tissue damage or infection.

1. Try gently removing the object with dental floss. Never use a sharp tool, pin, or toothpick.
2. If you can’t remove it easily, stop — forcing it can damage the gum or tooth.
3. Call KidSmiles and we’ll get it out safely.

A lost crown or filling exposes the tooth to bacteria and sensitivity. Address it promptly.

1. Save the crown or filling and bring it to your appointment.
2. Temporarily cover the area with over-the-counter dental cement (available at most pharmacies).
3. Have your child avoid chewing on that side of the mouth.
4. Call KidSmiles to schedule a repair visit as soon as possible.