Gently rinse it with water if dirty. Do not scrub it. Try placing it back into the socket or store it in milk while heading to the dentist.
Call 303-774-8300 today to schedule.
We are here to help.
Pediatric dental emergencies can feel scary and overwhelming, especially when your child is in pain or bleeding. The good news is that many dental emergencies can be treated successfully when parents know what to do first.
This guide explains:
Some dental problems require urgent dental care, while others can wait for a regular appointment.
If you are unsure, contact our office, and we can help guide you.
Broken teeth are very common in children, especially during sports or play.
Here is what to do:
Even small fractures can sometimes expose deeper layers of the tooth.
For severe tooth pain:
Do NOT place aspirin directly on the gums. This can burn the tissue.
If pain continues, call the dentist promptly.
Kids often bite their lips or cheeks during falls or sports.
For minor injuries:
If bleeding continues beyond 10 minutes or the cut is deep, head to the ER.
Swelling near the gums or face may indicate an infection.
This requires same-day care.
While waiting:
Dental abscesses can become serious quickly if untreated.
Some situations require emergency medical care instead of dental care.
Go to the ER immediately for:
For most dental-only emergencies, calling the dentist first is the right move.
Not every emergency can be prevented, but good habits help reduce risk.
Helpful prevention tips include:
Strong oral health habits lower the chances of infections, cavities, and dental injuries.
You can also schedule your child’s regular dental exams to help catch issues early.
When families arrive at Twin Peaks Dentistry during a pediatric dental emergency, our first priority is helping your child feel calm and comfortable.
Dr. McKay Butler personally handles pediatric emergencies in most situations, occasionally referring families to pediatric dentists or specialists if additional care is needed.
Our office sees children of all ages, including:
We also offer complimentary “happy visits” for children under 2 years old to help normalize dental visits early.
During an emergency visit, we typically:
Our office is designed to be kid-friendly and supportive for nervous children. Comfort items and calming communication techniques help make pediatric dental care easier for both kids and parents.
Dr. Butler shares:
“I’ve treated pediatric emergencies before. Common issues include broken teeth from sports injuries, and I’ve even witnessed that firsthand with our first child when he was 9 months old and pulled a small table over onto himself while learning to crawl and stand. So I’ve witnessed it as a parent as well as a provider.”
Office Hours:
After-hours emergencies should still call the same number:
(303) 774-8300
Pick the tooth up by the crown only. Rinse briefly if dirty, but do not scrub it. Try placing it back into the socket or store it in milk and get to the dentist within 30 to 60 minutes.
Yes, but baby teeth should never be reinserted. Doing so can damage developing permanent teeth underneath. Call the dentist the same day for evaluation.
Call the dentist first for dental-only injuries. Go to the ER for head injuries, broken jaws, severe bleeding, or breathing problems.
The first 30 to 60 minutes are critical for saving permanent teeth. Fast action significantly improves the chances of successful treatment.
Yes. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen for children is usually appropriate when used according to package instructions. Never place aspirin directly on the gums.
Call our main office number. Twin Peaks Dentistry uses the same number for after-hours emergency guidance:
(303) 774-8300
Mouthguards, good oral hygiene, regular dental visits, and supervising children around hard foods can all help reduce the risk of dental emergencies.
Most dental insurance plans cover emergency exams and urgent pediatric dental care similarly to routine care. Our office can help verify coverage.
Need help or not sure what to do next? Contact our office, and we will help guide you.
Dental emergencies are stressful, but you do not have to handle them alone.
Twin Peaks Dentistry is here to help families throughout Longmont with compassionate, kid-friendly emergency dental care.
Save our number in your phone now before you need it:
(303) 774-8300
Not in an emergency? Schedule your child’s regular visit today.
Dr. Butler did a perfect crown & abutment for my implant, very impressed with the natural appearance and quality of work. Staff was helpful, friendly and professional. I would recommend Dr. Butler very highly.
Dr. Butler has a very calming presence, and is very skilled at his craft/profession. He has gone beyond the normal call of duty to assist me personally. I really appreciate Twin Peaks Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, and look forward to being a patient for many years.
Dr. Butler and all the other staff members are absolutely amazing. They care about their patients and it shows. We just finished our Invisalign treatment here. It took me close to 9 months, and I felt truly cared for every step of the way. Highly recommend this place!
Call (720) 928-3839 today to schedule.
