What should be done when toddlers injure their teeth or gums?

A child's primary teeth, sometimes called "baby teeth," are as important as the permanent adult teeth. Primary teeth typically begin to appear when a baby is between age six months and one year. Primary teeth help children chew and speak. They also hold space in the jaws for permanent teeth that are growing under the gums. If your toddler loses a tooth, contact your dentist immediately so he or she can evaluate the damage. If your child is in pain, cool his mouth gently with a damp, cold cloth or use ice to reduce swelling. If the bleeding doesn’t stop, go to a hospital emergency room immediately.

If your toddler has somehow lost a baby tooth, you should contact your dentist immediately. The baby tooth will not be able to be replaced, but the dentist will be able to determine whether there is any other damage and whether your child's teeth will be able to continue coming in correctly.  If your toddler has a mild mouth injury, use cold, wet gauze to stop any bleeding, and use ice or a popsicle to stop swelling. If your child is in a lot of pain, you may want to administer a pain reliever as well. Even these milder injuries could loosen teeth or damage gums, and you should call your dentist to discuss what you should do.  Most mouth injuries will heal on their own  but check your child's gums for changes like increased tenderness and swelling until any injuries heal. Call your doctor if you notice any worsening or lasting symptoms.