Dental emergencies usually occur after regular office hours!
For that reason, at Skyline Pediatric Dentistry, we provide urgent dental care in Omaha, NE, for our patients of record. Accidents, dental pain, or infections can appear suddenly, and our team of pediatric dental specialists are ready to help. If your child is experiencing an emergency, contact the office number for instructions.
Common Pediatric Dental Emergencies
When it comes to dental emergencies in children, time is of the essence. A sudden toothache or an accident that results in a broken or knocked-out tooth, seeking prompt dental treatment from an emergency pediatric dentist in Omaha is essential to ensure the best outcome. Delaying care can lead to more serious complications, affecting your child’s overall health and their ability to maintain a healthy smile. Timely intervention not only protects your child’s oral health but also ensures they can continue to smile with confidence.
Toothache
Kids rarely complain about tooth pain unless it’s pretty bad. If your child says their tooth hurts, it’s likely a bigger issue.
Call your dentist and get an appointment. In the meantime, you can:
- You may give your child either Children’s Tylenol or Children’s Ibuprofen (in its different presentations) making sure to follow the directions on the bottle.
- Watch for facial swelling, and call us immediately if it appears.
- Avoid giving any narcotic medication unless your doctor prescribed it.
Broken Tooth
Get the details of how the accident happened, as this provides the dentist with good diagnostic information. Rinse the mouth with warm water. If the gum is bleeding, apply some pressure to it with a clean wash cloth or gauze. If there is an injury to the face, apply a cold compress over the cheek or lip in the area of the injury. Recover any broken tooth fragments. Get immediate dental attention.
Knocked Out Tooth
A knocked out primary (baby) tooth should never be re-implanted as this can cause damage to the developing permanent tooth. It is important, however, to recover the tooth and account for it and its parts
For a permanent tooth:
- Handle the tooth by the crown (top), not the root.
- Rinse briefly with water. Do not scrub or use soap.
- Reinsert gently into the socket if possible.
- If reinsertion isn’t possible, place the tooth in milk or your child’s saliva.
- Call our Omaha emergency pediatric dentist immediately.
Time is crucial. The sooner the tooth is reinserted, the better the chances of saving it.
Cut or Bitten Lip, Cheek or Tongue
Broken Braces and Wires
Possible Broken Jaw
In the event of jaw injury which may involve a broken jaw, go immediately to the nearest emergency room. Trauma this severe will usually involve other areas of concern. For children’s dental emergencies, it’s important to act quickly and consult with a pediatric dental professional. After addressing the immediate issue, schedule an appointment with your pediatric dentist to ensure proper healing and care.
Bleeding After a Baby Tooth Falls Out
If your child experiences bleeding after losing a baby tooth, gently fold a clean wash cloth or piece of gauze and place it (tightly) over the bleeding area. Bite down on the gauze for 15 minutes; the area must have firm constant pressure for the bleeding to stop.
Dental Emergency First Aid for Parents
In a dental emergency, staying calm and acting quickly during a dental emergency can make all the difference in your child’s comfort and recovery. Here are a few steps you can take to help your child before visiting a children’s dentist in Omaha:
Stay Calm and Reassure Your Child
Your child will look to you for cues. Speak gently and calmly to help ease their fear and keep them still.
Control Bleeding
If there is bleeding, place a clean cloth or sterile gauze over the area and apply gentle pressure. Have your child bite down if possible.
Reduce Swelling
Use a cold compress or an ice pack wrapped in a towel on the outside of the face. Apply in 10-minute intervals to help with swelling and discomfort.
Keep the Area Clean
Rinse your child’s mouth gently with warm water to clear away any debris. Avoid using antiseptic mouthwash or applying any medication unless directed by a pediatric dental professional.
Avoid Home Remedies
Do not use aspirin directly on gums or teeth, as it can cause irritation. Over-the-counter children’s pain relievers can be given if necessary, always follow the label instructions.
Call Us Right Away
Contact our office as soon as possible for guidance. Prompt dental attention from a family dental care provider helps minimize risk and supports your child’s recovery.
Emergency Dental Care for Children
At Skyline Pediatric Dentistry, we proudly serve families across Elkhorn and Omaha, NE, providing prompt and compassionate care when emergencies arise. From tooth injuries to pain management, our team delivers compassionate, expert attention. If you’re looking for an emergency pediatric dentist in Omaha, we are here to help. Please call our office to schedule an appointment and get the support your child needs during a dental emergency.
Frequently Asked Questions
My child knocked out a tooth. What should I do?
- For baby teeth:
- Do not reinsert – bring the tooth to us for evaluation.
- For permanent teeth:
- Hold by the crown (not roots)
- Rinse gently with milk or saline (no scrubbing)
- Try to reinsert or store in milk/saliva
- Come immediately (time is critical!)
How can I manage pain until we arrive?
- Rinse with warm saltwater
- Use children’s ibuprofen (follow dosage)
- Apply a cold compress to swollen areas
- Avoid aspirin (can cause bleeding) or topical numbing gels
Will insurance cover emergency visits?
We accept most major dental insurance plans and will gladly file your claim as a courtesy. Please note:
- Coverage varies – Most plans cover emergency exams, but benefits depend on your specific plan
- Payment responsibility – While we file claims at our expense, you are responsible to us for payment
How can I prevent dental emergencies?
- Use mouthguards for sports
- Avoid hard candy/ice chewing
- Schedule regular checkups to catch weak spots
Ongoing Care & Sedation Options
Prevention and early treatment are key to avoiding dental emergencies. Our comprehensive patient care services include routine cleanings, sedation dentistry for anxious patients, and specialized treatments tailored to your child’s needs.
Schedule Your Child's Routine Care Today
Don’t wait for an emergency. Regular dental visits with our pediatric specialists help catch problems early and give your child the confidence they need for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
What Our Patients Say
The best dentist we’ve ever had! The staff is amazing. Love that they send lots of reminders. My kids love going here, they ask to go to the dentist!
– Sara J.
Hours
Mon, Tue, Thu:
7:30am – 5:00pm
Wed, Fri:
7:30am – 12:00pm