Dr Kavya Pediatric Dentist, Dubai

Emergency Guide

Pediatric Dental Emergencies (Kids): What To Do Right Now

If your child has severe pain, facial swelling, dental trauma, or bleeding that will not stop, call the nearest location immediately. We prioritize same-day emergency visits whenever possible.

Contact - +971 50 957 1270

Emergency Guide for Parents

Dental emergencies are scary, especially for kids. Quick and calm first-aid steps can reduce pain and help protect the tooth until your child is seen.

Child dental emergency care illustration

Go to the ER Immediately if your child has:

  • Trouble breathing or swallowing
  • Rapidly spreading facial or neck swelling
  • High fever with facial swelling or severe dental pain
  • Uncontrolled bleeding
  • Major facial trauma or possible jaw fracture

Most Common Pediatric Dental Emergencies

1) Knocked-Out Permanent Tooth (Adult Tooth)

Hold the tooth by the crown, rinse briefly if dirty, store in milk, and call immediately. Do not scrub or let it dry out.

2) Baby Tooth Knocked Out

Do not reinsert. Apply gauze for bleeding, use cold compress, and call for same-day assessment.

3) Severe Toothache

Rinse with warm salt water, check for trapped food, and use age-appropriate pain relief. Avoid aspirin on gums.

4) Dental Abscess or Gum Pimple

Swelling, fever, or bad taste may indicate infection. Needs urgent care. Do not pop it.

5) Chipped or Broken Tooth

Rinse gently, save broken fragments if possible, and use cold compress for swelling.

6) Loose Permanent Tooth

Avoid touching or wiggling. Keep soft diet and arrange urgent evaluation.

7) Bitten Lip, Tongue, or Cheek

Clean area, apply pressure with gauze, and use cold compress to reduce swelling.

8) Object Stuck Between Teeth

Try floss gently. Do not use pins or sharp objects. Call us if it cannot be removed.

9) Broken Braces or Sharp Wire

Cover with orthodontic wax and schedule same-day dental guidance.

How Fast Should You Call?

SituationCall NowSame DayMonitor
Knocked-out permanent toothYes--
Facial swelling with feverYes--
Severe pain or bleedingYes--
Mild toothache or chipped tooth-Yes-
Small painless chip--Yes

What Is Usually Not a Dental Emergency?

Small painless chip

Book a routine evaluation if your child is comfortable and eating normally.

Mild sensitivity

Monitor and schedule a non-urgent review, especially if symptoms continue.

Lost filling without pain

Needs review, but not usually an immediate emergency in a calm child.

Teething discomfort

Usually manageable at home with supportive care and routine follow-up.

Stay Calm - We Are Here to Help

Dental emergencies can be stressful for children and parents. Reassure your child, avoid panic, and call us quickly. Early care usually means easier treatment and better outcomes.

Prevention Tips for Families

Mouthguards for sports

Use a mouthguard for contact and active sports to reduce trauma risk.

Avoid hard habits

Do not let children chew ice, hard candy, or open objects with teeth.

Regular checkups

Preventive visits help detect issues early and reduce emergency visits.

Night grinding review

Ask your dentist if clenching or grinding needs monitoring or a guard.

Call a Location Now

Rex Medical Centre

Saeed Tower 2 - 102 Sheikh Zayed Rd - Trade Centre - Trade Centre 1 - Dubai - United Arab Emirates, Dubai

Clover Medical Centre

307, Warsan Tower, Near Media Rotana Hotel, Opp. American School of Dubai, Al Thanyah 3, Barsha

Dr.Sg Poly Clinic

Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Street 123–125, AL ATTAR BUSINESS CENTER, Dubai

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a baby tooth emergency serious?

Yes. Even baby teeth injuries can affect eating, comfort, and adult teeth development, so same-day advice is recommended.

Can a tooth infection make my child sick?

Yes. Dental infection can spread and cause fever or facial swelling. Prompt dental care is important.

Should I give antibiotics at home without seeing a dentist?

No. Do not self-start antibiotics. A dentist should assess the cause and decide proper treatment.

What if a dental emergency happens at night?

Use first-aid steps, control pain and bleeding, and contact emergency services if severe symptoms are present. Then call the clinic at the earliest.

Can a knocked-out permanent tooth be saved?

Often yes, if managed quickly and kept moist. Immediate action gives the best chance.