When the sun comes out in Hermiston, so do the skateboards, bikes, trampolines, and slip ‘n slides. At Advanced Pediatric Dentistry of Hermiston, Dr. Shane Schmidt treats more dental injuries in the summer than during any other season. That makes sense—kids love their adventures, and sometimes their teeth get caught in the action. Whether it’s a knocked-out tooth at the park or a chipped incisor after a pool jump gone wrong, summer keeps emergency pediatric dentistry in Hermiston busier than you might expect.
The dentist often sees injuries from falls, sports, and even those colorful popsicles kids bite straight into. He reminds parents that not every dental mishap is a full-blown emergency, but some need fast attention. If your child complains of pain, you notice swelling, or something looks broken or loose, our staff wants you to call immediately at 541-289-5433
Summer should be fun; a dental emergency shouldn’t end the good times. Here’s how to stay ahead of summertime surprises—and know what to do if one sneaks up anyway.
When Summer Treats Aren’t the Only Things That Crunch
If your child falls at the playground or crashes into another player during a summer soccer game, teeth can suffer. Dr. Schmidt sees everything from minor chips to full tooth loss, especially in active kids. In these moments, fast thinking helps. Save the tooth if it comes out. Rinse it gently, avoid scrubbing, and try placing it in milk until you reach the dentist.
Look for these common signs of summer-related dental injuries:
- A chipped, cracked, or loose tooth
- Bleeding from the gums or lips
- Swelling around the mouth or jaw
- Complaints of pain while chewing or drinking cold liquids
- A missing tooth, especially if it’s a permanent one
Emergency Pediatric Dentistry in Hermiston: What Counts as Urgent?
Not every toothache requires an immediate trip to the dentist’s office, but some situations demand quick action. When in doubt, the dentist recommends parents call the office, describe the symptoms, and let the staff help decide. Even baby teeth can need emergency care. If your child injures a baby tooth and it affects speech, eating, or causes discomfort, the dentist will want to take a look.
Dr. Schmidt urges parents to act fast if:
- A permanent tooth gets knocked out
- You notice a deep crack or break
- There’s uncontrollable bleeding
- Swelling spreads to the face or neck
- Your child complains of severe, constant pain
Pool Noodles, Patio Furniture, and Other Sneaky Summer Hazards
It’s not just sports and playgrounds that lead to dental emergencies. The dentist also treats many patients hurt during pool time or family barbecues. Parents don’t need to bubble wrap their kids, but Dr. Schmidt does suggest staying nearby when younger kids play and reminding older ones to use mouthguards during sports.
Watch out for these surprising causes:
- Slipping on wet pool decks
- Biting into frozen treats too fast
- Roughhousing with pool toys
- Tripping on yard games or lawn chairs
- Chewing on ice or hard snacks
Additionally, regular checkups and consistent daily oral care can help your child avoid an unplanned visit to the dentist.
Call Us When Summer Fun Takes a Bite Out of Your Child’s Smile
If your child has a dental emergency, don’t wait! Call us ASAP at 541-289-5433. Our staff at Advanced Pediatric Dentistry of Hermiston knows how quickly a happy summer afternoon can turn stressful. We answer calls promptly, schedule urgent appointments, and help families stay calm during dental emergencies. Whether your child loses a tooth at a birthday party or wakes up with unexpected swelling, we respond quickly and treat your child compassionately.
If you think your child may need emergency pediatric dentistry in Hermiston, contact us for an appointment. We serve families across Hermiston, Oregon, with fast, focused care and cutting-edge dental technology. Dr. Schmidt and our team will help get your child smiling again.