Summer in Kirkland means more sunshine, longer days, and plenty of opportunities to hit the pool or the lake. While water play is one of the best ways for kids to stay active and cool during the warmer months, it also comes with a few risks parents should keep in mind.
At Kirkland Kids Dentistry, we see a rise in dental emergencies every summer, many of them due to slips, falls, or unexpected bumps during swim time. As your trusted children’s emergency dentist in Kirkland, WA, we want your kids to enjoy summer safely and smile all the way through it. Here are five simple, dentist-approved swim safety tips to help prevent dental injuries and keep those teeth intact!
1. No Running on the Pool Deck (Really!)
We know it sounds like a broken record, but running on slippery surfaces is still one of the top causes of summer dental emergencies. Wet pool decks, diving boards, and lake docks can be hazardous zones when kids are moving too fast. One slip can easily lead to a chipped or knocked-out tooth.
Encourage walking (not running) with gentle but firm reminders. And if you see your child getting too excited or hyperactive, take a quick break in the shade or offer a snack to reset.
2. Skip the Roughhousing in the Water
Playful shoves, underwater wrestling, and diving competitions are common with kids, but they often lead to collisions. Unfortunately, teeth tend to take the brunt of the impact. Facial injuries in the pool can be tricky and sometimes serious, requiring urgent dental care.
Set clear rules before swimming: no pushing, no dunking, and keep your hands to yourself. A little structure can go a long way in preventing accidents and visits to our children’s emergency dentist. We’d much rather only see your child for their routine cleanings and checkups.
3. Use a Mouthguard for Water Sports
If your child participates in water polo, competitive swimming, or even casual lake games like water football, a custom mouthguard is a smart investment. Many parents associate mouthguards only with contact sports like football or hockey, but dental injuries can also happen in the water.
Our office can offer guidance on custom-fit mouthguards designed just for kids. They’re more comfortable and protective than the store-bought versions, and they can save your child from a painful tooth injury.
4. Watch for Metal Pool Ladders and Hard Pool Walls
Kids love to climb, dive, and explore, and that includes pool ladders and walls. Unfortunately, metal ladders and concrete pool edges are common causes of chipped or broken teeth.
Make sure your child knows to be careful when climbing in or out of the pool, and try to keep games away from the edges. Constant supervision also helps prevent those unexpected accidents that can happen in just seconds.
5. Know What to Do If a Tooth Gets Knocked Out
Despite your best efforts, accidents can still happen. In fact, the Cleveland Clinic reports that knocked-out teeth are most common in kids aged 7-11. If your child chips, breaks, or knocks out a tooth, don’t panic. Just act quickly:
- Gently rinse the area with water.
- Try to save the tooth or any broken pieces, if possible. Store them in milk or saliva.
- Call our children’s emergency dentist for care.
- Use cold compresses and over-the-counter pain medication until you see us.
At Kirkland Kids Dentistry, we’re here for these little mishaps. Our team is trained to handle urgent situations with care, comfort, and kid-friendly expertise. In many cases, acting quickly can mean the difference between saving and losing a tooth.
Swim Safe and Enjoy the Season—We’re Here If You Need Us
Swimming is one of the best parts of summer, and it should be fun, not frightening. With just a few simple precautions, you can help your child avoid dental injuries and enjoy every cannonball, splash, and underwater adventure.
But even if something does happen, our children’s emergency dentist is here to help. Kirkland Kids Dentistry offers compassionate emergency care tailored just for kids. If taking a dip caused a chip or something else, get care now!