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How to Handle Your Child's Dental Emergency

Get tips on dealing with chipped teeth, mouth cuts and toothaches until you can get to your dentist (10 Photos)

Arricca SanSone on May 20, 2011 at 11:47AM

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How to Handle Your Child's Dental Emergency

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Chipped or Broken Tooth

Whether it's a baby or permanent tooth, shine a flashlight on the exposed edge of the broken tooth; if you see a red spot, the tooth is bleeding inside, exposing the nerve. This is an emergency, so you’ll need to see your dentist immediately. If you can find the piece of tooth, bring it with you -- your dentist may be able to bond it in place. If no red spot is visible, it’s fine to see the dentist the next day but call to tell him or her what’s going on. Your child probably won’t be in pain, though the tooth may be sensitive to hot and cold.

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What was your trickiest dental emergency?