Smile Surfers Kids Dentistry

Emergency Dentistry

Accidents Happen, We Get It!

Our incredible pediatric dentists in Auburn are here to help!

Yikes! ! Can you help me?

Emergency Dentistry

If your child is experiencing any of the following, please call us immediately.

Please give us a call right away if your child is experiencing any of the following:

  • Knocked-out permanent tooth
  • Chipped, fractured, or broken tooth
  • Toothache pain or pressure
  • Dental abscess
  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Lost or loose filling

We will make every attempt to start treating your child immediately and/or help you through what you should do next.

Having A Dental Emergency? Don’t Panic!

We know it might be stressful, but follow these guidelines to help you make wise, informed decisions in this situation!

Knocked-Out Tooth

Though it may be scary if it happens, a child losing a baby tooth is not abnormal. There is usually no cause for concern regarding your child’s health if this occurs. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please give us a call during normal office hours.

Come see us immediately if a permanent tooth is knocked out!

If you are able to find and save the tooth, proceed as follows:

  • Hold it by the crown, not the root
  • Rinse the tooth with water, but do not clean with soap
  • If the tooth is not cracked or damaged, try to put it back in the original socket and have your child hold it in place by biting on gauze
  • If you cannot put the tooth back in its socket, put it in a cup containing your child’s saliva or milk

Chips and Fractures

If your child has chipped or fractured a tooth, you should consult with one of our pediatric dentists in the Tri-Cities, Sumner, or Auburn area as soon as possible. It’s beneficial to rinse your child’s mouth with water after they fracture a tooth. Bring any pieces of the tooth that you can find to the dentist appointment. If you wait, the chance of infection grows, and dental care may become more complicated.

Toothache

If your child is experiencing discomfort from a toothache, try out these tips:

  • Gently clean the site of the pain.
  • Clear out any food that has been stuck in or around the teeth using floss.
  • Allow them to swirl warm water or warm saltwater around in their mouth.
  • Avoid exposing the gum or tooth to heat.

If your child is still in pain after 24 hours, please seek out additional treatment options from your nearest Smile Surfers office.

Cuts

If your child experiences a minor injury like biting their tongue, lip, or cheek; or if they have a cut in their mouth, follow these steps: use a clean towel or gauze to apply firm but gentle pressure to stop the bleeding. Put ice on the bruised area to reduce swelling and pain. If the bleeding does not stop, please visit your local urgent care facility or emergency center.

Dental Emergencies Are No Match!

Here at Smile Surfers, your kiddos will be under the care of expertly trained pediatric dentists and hygienists.

Same-Day Care

We know that dental emergencies don’t exactly happen when it’s convenient, and we’ll do everything in our power to get your kiddo seen and treated as quickly as possible–including any necessary tests or procedures.

After-Hours Help

In order to receive after-hours support, please call 509-581-4455. You will then be connected to a series of automated instructions that will guide you through the necessary steps until we are able to provide assistance in person.

Relieve Discomfort and Pain

We provide various anesthetic and sedative options for your child, as well as a few different calming treatments depending on the procedure necessary.

Convenience

Our locations offer appointments before and after school, as well as dental insurance coverage and financing alternatives that can be customized to your needs.

Kid-Friendly Office

Your child’s memories and perception of the dentist are key in helping them avoid anxiety around dental visits, and in setting up good habits. This is especially true if your kid is currently experiencing pain or a dental emergency.

Preventive Dentistry

Our “Surf Instructors” prioritize preventive treatment because we want to teach your child how to avoid dental problems down the road. By offering useful information and tools, we hope to achieve this goal.

Quick Tips

Learn More About SDF

Want To Learn More About Dental Emergencies?

Check out this FAQ for more helpful tips! 

Specifically, how can you help me in an emergency situation?

Our pediatric dentists are highly skilled and knowledgeable in the following:

  • Treatment for tooth pain or pressure
  • Treatment for knocked-out teeth
  • Emergency extractions
  • Emergency repair of chipped, fractured, or broken teeth
  • Fillings
  • Crowns
  • Baby root canals

Can the ER help me with a dental emergency?

If you’re experiencing a life-threatening emergency, such as continuous bleeding or a broken jaw, please call 911 or go to the hospital that’s closest to you.

If not, we highly suggest you consult with one of our pediatric dentists.

Most hospitals don’t have dentists, so the only available treatments are for pain and infections. If you want your child’s dental condition addressed to avoid more complications, they would need to visit a pediatric dentist.

Not only are ER visits for dental emergencies more expensive than visiting a pediatric dentist, but they also take longer and don’t necessarily fix the problem.

Is it possible to come in without an appointment?

Please contact us by phone before coming in person!

How much do dental emergencies typically cost?

The answer to this can be different for every case, as the cost will vary depending on the procedures and/or services required for your child’s visit!

However, at Smile Surfers Kids Dentistry, we are dedicated to providing affordable dental care to children from all walks of life. We accept many forms of payment and financing, including:

  • Most dental insurance plans
  • Cash and major credit cards
  • Financing through CareCredit

Can treatment make the pain worse?

Are dental emergencies avoidable?

The good news is that most dental problems can be prevented by avoiding damaging habits and practicing good oral hygiene, like:

  1. Brushing teeth twice per day
  2. Getting a new toothbrush every three months
  3. Using floss on your teeth at least once a day
  4. Contacting a dentist as quickly as possible after noticing that something’s wrong
  5. Maintaining routine dental care by scheduling regular visits
  6. Following and finishing dental treatments as advised
  7. Wearing a mouth-guard if you’re an athlete
  8. Using your teeth only for their true purpose, not opening packages!
  9. Avoiding chewing on tough items, like ice or pencils
  10. Eating a balanced diet full of nutrients and avoid having too much sugar
  11. Drinking lots of water every day

Having An Emergency?

Don’t Worry - We’ve Got This! We’re currently able to help new and familiar faces in the Auburn area!