Nobody wants to experience dental trauma. However, dental trauma usually occurs due to accidents, so the best approach is to minimise the chances of such incidents happening in the first place.
In many cases, dental trauma is preventable, and here are some simple tips to consider:
Taking these precautions can significantly reduce the risk of dental trauma and help keep your teeth and oral health safe.
Keep calm. Check for any other head or bodily injuries and follow the checklist below:
If so, please see your family medical practitioner or seek immediate medical assistance at your nearest A&E Department as NUHS or KKH (these have children's emergency departments). It is crucial to rule out any possible neurological injuries due to the injury.
One of the most critical emergencies in dentistry is tooth avulsion, a type of dental trauma. This occurs when a tooth is completely knocked out of its socket, including the position in the jawbone and gums, due to an injury impact.
In cases of tooth avulsion, ensure that it is a permanent tooth and NOT a baby tooth. If you need clarification, call the dental clinic and/or send photos to us, and we can guide you. If it is a permanent tooth, carefully pick it up by holding the crown (the white part) and avoiding touching the root (the yellowish part) as much as possible. If the tooth is dirty or has debris on it, gently rinse it under cold running water. Try to reposition the tooth back into the socket. Get your child to bite down on a handkerchief or towel to hold it in place while you make your way to the dental clinic. If you cannot reposition the tooth, store it in a suitable temporary storage solution. Options include a bottle of full cream milk, saline solution, or a container with the child’s saliva. Do not store the tooth in water.
Acting promptly and seeking immediate dental attention can significantly affect the potential survival and management of the affected tooth or teeth.
In case of any doubt or emergency, do not hesitate to call the dental clinic immediately. Seeking proper dental care within 30 minutes can significantly impact the chances of saving the tooth. Time is crucial in these situations, so act promptly to ensure the best outcome for your child’s dental health.
During the appointment, the dentist will conduct a comprehensive clinical examination and may take X-rays or perform relevant tests as necessary to assess the dental injury thoroughly. Based on the findings, the available management options will be discussed with you, and the most suitable solution will be carried out accordingly.
The dentist will also guide you on caring for the injury site in the coming days to prevent further infection and promote optimal healing. Additionally, you will be informed about the follow-up appointments scheduled to monitor the progress and ensure the best possible outcome.
Following the dentist’s advice and instructions is important to support an effective recovery.
