Summer is a very active time for kids, and kids plus activity can equal injuries small and large. Falls from bikes, skateboards, and rollerblades can lead to dental injuries – trauma that typically occurs to the upper and lower front teeth. If your child gets a tooth knocked out, a few simple steps can save the day. First, gently rinse the tooth in cool water. Be careful and do not scrub the tooth. Second, if it’s a permanent tooth, replace in its socket. If that’s not possible, put the tooth in a container of milk. (By the way, it is generally not recommended to replant a baby tooth.) Third, you must act quickly in any dental emergency for the best prognosis. Call your dental office right away and have your child evaluated. If a tooth is cracked, broken, or displaced, place a cold compress on the area to keep down any swelling. Seek dental care immediately. Avoiding most dental emergencies can be as easy as wearing a mouthguard, which cushions blows that would otherwise break teeth or injure lips. Make sure your kid slips in a mouthguard before participating in sports or other recreational activities. Remember, a safe summer can still be a fun one!