When your child chips, cracks, or injures a tooth, it can be hard to know what to do next. Should you try to save it, or is removal the better option?
At Oxford Dental Office, our Edmonton child dentists are here to guide you through every step, with care that’s both thorough and compassionate.
We understand how stressful dental emergencies can be for parents and kids alike. That’s why we focus on providing clear answers, modern treatment options, and a calming environment for young patients.
Understanding the Damage: Can the Tooth Be Saved?
Not all dental injuries are the same, and the type of damage will determine the best course of treatment. A small chip or minor crack may be easy to repair with bonding or a dental filling. More serious injuries, like deep fractures or root damage, may require more extensive treatment or extraction.
Your child’s age, the location of the tooth, and whether it’s a baby or adult tooth will also play a role in the decision. A pediatric dentist will assess the tooth with an exam and X-rays to decide what’s possible.
Common Treatments for Damaged Teeth in Children
Treatment options for damaged teeth will depend on the type and severity of the injury, as well as the child’s age and the tooth’s stage of development.
Here are some of the most common treatments recommended for children with damaged teeth:
Filling in Minor Chips or Cavities
For small chips or early-stage cavities, dental fillings or bonding can often restore the tooth quickly. Tooth-colored materials are used to match the natural look of your child’s smile.
This treatment is minimally invasive and typically doesn’t require freezing. It helps protect the tooth from further damage while keeping things looking and feeling normal. Fillings are often done in a single visit.
Dental Crowns
When a tooth has more significant damage, such as a large crack or deep decay, a dental crown may be recommended. Crowns cover the entire tooth to restore strength, shape, and function.
Stainless steel crowns are commonly used on baby teeth, while ceramic options may be used for adult teeth. The goal is to protect the remaining tooth structure and avoid early loss.
Pulp Therapy
If the inner part of the tooth (the pulp) is affected by injury or infection, pulp therapy may be necessary. This involves removing the damaged pulp tissue and placing a protective material to keep the tooth stable.
Often referred to as a baby root canal, this treatment helps maintain the tooth until it’s ready to fall out naturally. It’s commonly used when a baby tooth is too important to lose too soon.
Emergency Treatment
Some injuries, like a knocked-out or severely broken tooth, require immediate care. In these cases, acting quickly gives your child the best chance of saving the tooth or reducing long-term damage.
Emergency treatment may involve repositioning the tooth, stabilizing it, or preparing for follow-up care. Your pediatric dentist will walk you through the process and provide pain relief if needed.
How We Choose the Right Treatment for Long-Term Health
Choosing the right treatment starts with a careful evaluation of the damage, your child’s age, and the stage of tooth development. Our goal is always to preserve natural teeth when it’s safe and appropriate to do so.
We also consider how the injury might affect your child’s bite, speech, and future dental health. Sometimes removing a tooth is the healthiest option, especially if it could lead to infection or alignment issues. Every decision is made with long-term comfort and function in mind.
Making the Best Choice Together
When your child’s smile is on the line, it’s important to feel supported and informed. Our team works with families to find a treatment plan that fits your child’s needs, comfort level, and long-term health goals.
- We walk you through all available treatment options
- We explain the benefits and risks of each approach
- We consider your child’s personality, comfort, and age
- We prioritize preserving natural teeth whenever possible
We keep you informed every step of the way
Together, we’ll make a choice that supports your child’s health today and protects their smile for years to come.
Helping Your Child Feel Calm and Confident
Dental visits can feel overwhelming for kids, especially after an injury, but a calm, supportive environment can make all the difference. Our team is trained to work at your child’s pace, using gentle language, kid-friendly tools, and positive reinforcement.
We explain what’s happening in ways children can understand, helping them feel more in control. Distraction techniques, comfort items, and a warm atmosphere all help create a more relaxed experience. Our goal is to turn a stressful moment into one your child can handle with confidence.
Trusted Child Dentistry in Edmonton: Here When You Need Us
When your child has a damaged tooth, getting the right care quickly can make all the difference.
At Oxford Dental Office, our experienced child dentists in Edmonton are here to provide gentle, effective treatment tailored to your child’s needs. We focus on long-term health, comfort, and helping your child feel safe every step of the way. If you’re unsure what to do next, we’re here to help you figure it out—together.
Book an appointment today and let our team take care of your child’s smile with the care it deserves.