Increased Falls and Bumps as Toddlers Learn to Walk
The walking phase typically begins around 9 to 18 months, and while every child develops at their own pace, one thing remains consistent: frequent falls. With wobbly steps and an unsteady gait, toddlers are naturally prone to tripping, stumbling, and bumping into furniture. These falls are usually harmless, but when they involve the mouth or face, dental trauma can occur.
Vulnerability of Baby Teeth During This Stage
Unlike permanent teeth, baby teeth are more fragile and less anchored into the jaw. This makes them more susceptible to damage from even minor impacts. Because the enamel on primary teeth is thinner, chips and cracks are more likely when toddlers fall face-first or bump their mouths on hard surfaces.
What many parents don’t realize is that trauma to baby teeth can also affect the development of permanent teeth underneath. That’s why early prevention and care are so important.
Common Dental Injuries: Chipped, Loose, or Knocked-Out Teeth
Some of the most common dental injuries during the walking phase include:
- Chipped teeth: Often the result of falling on hard flooring or furniture edges.
- Loosened teeth: A tooth may move slightly in the socket but not fall out completely.
- Knocked-out teeth (avulsions): These are dental emergencies that require immediate attention from a children’s dentist.
When toddlers are learning to walk, falls are inevitable—but dental damage doesn’t have to be. One of the best ways to protect your child’s smile during this stage is to partner with a trusted kid’s dentist. Dentists for children play a crucial role in both preventing and managing dental injuries, offering personalized care that grows with your child.
If your toddler has experienced a dental injury, or if you’re simply scheduling a routine visit during the walking phase, a children’s dentist will perform a thorough oral exam. This evaluation often includes:
- Checking for chipped, loose, or fractured baby teeth
- Monitoring gum health for signs of inflammation or trauma
- Assessing how the teeth are aligned and developing
- Taking X-rays if needed to see the extent of damage beneath the gums or to the developing adult teeth
Parents can expect compassionate care and a calm, kid-friendly atmosphere. Children’s dentists are trained to make children feel at ease—even during emergency visits—so toddlers are less likely to develop dental anxiety later in life.
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, children should see a dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth appearing. Visiting a Las Vegaschildren’sdentist early helps:
- Build familiarity with the dental environment
- Establish good oral hygiene habits from the start
- Catch and address dental issues before they become serious
- Educate parents on tooth-safe routines during the walking phase, including safe foods, toothbrush types, and fluoride use
By turning dental care into a normal part of your child’s life, you’re laying the foundation for a healthy relationship with oral health that lasts a lifetime.
Accidents happen—and when they do, knowing how to react can make all the difference. A children’s dentist can guide you on how to handle common toddler dental emergencies such as:
- What to do if a tooth is completely knocked out
- How to care for a chipped or fractured tooth at home
- When to bring your child in for emergency treatment
- How to manage pain and swelling safely
Many pediatric dental clinics offer emergency appointments, with same-day availability to assess and treat urgent concerns. Keep your chosen dentist’s emergency number saved in your phone—you’ll be glad you did in a moment of panic.
Whether you’re at home or out for a walk, simple precautions can go a long way in protecting your toddler’s teeth during the walking phase. With guidance from a Las Vegas dentist for children, you can create a safer environment that supports your child’s development while reducing the risk of dental injuries.
Your home is your toddler’s playground—and the place where most slips and falls occur. Children’s dentists often stress the importance of making the home environment as tooth-safe as possible.
Baby-Proofing Sharp Corners and Hard Surfaces
Tables, shelves, and even fireplace edges can be dangerous during this unsteady walking phase. Use corner guards or padded bumpers on all sharp-edged furniture to cushion potential falls and prevent dental trauma.
Use of Soft Play Mats and Padded Furniture Edges
Thick play mats in your living room or nursery can absorb the impact of a fall and reduce the risk of chipped teeth. Padded ottomans or soft-edged furniture can also minimize injury during those inevitable stumbles.
Supervised Play to Reduce High-Impact Falls
Keeping an eye on your toddler—especially near stairs, tiled floors, or hard furniture—is crucial. Many children’s dentists advise against letting toddlers run with objects in their mouth, such as sippy cups or toys, which could worsen an injury if they fall.
Outdoor play and walks are essential for a toddler’s development, but they come with their own set of risks. With these safety tips recommended by achildren’s dentist, you can keep your little one’s smile safe while they explore the world.
Choosing Safe, Supportive Shoes
Proper footwear helps improve balance and stability. Avoid slippery soles or shoes that are too big. Shoes that fit well offer traction and help reduce the chance of face-first tumbles that could damage teeth.
Encouraging Safe Climbing and Balance-Building Toys
Toys like toddler slides, rocking horses, and balance bikes can help improve coordination—just be sure they’re age-appropriate, sturdy, and always used with supervision. Avoid letting toddlers stand on unstable furniture or high surfaces.
Avoiding Toys with Hard or Pointed Edges
Some toys pose a greater risk of mouth injury if a child falls with them. Opt for soft, rounded toys and avoid items with hard plastic or sharp parts that could cause oral trauma.
After a fall, it’s not always obvious if your toddler’s teeth are injured. Here are a few common signs of dental trauma to watch for:
- Swelling or bruising around the mouth or gums
- Bleeding from the gums or around the teeth
- A chipped, cracked, or misaligned tooth
- Tooth discoloration (a tooth turning gray or dark may indicate nerve damage)
- Pain or sensitivity while eating or drinking
- A loose or mobile tooth
Even if the injury seems minor, some dental problems may not be visible right away. If your toddler displays any of these symptoms, it’s best to consult a children’s dentistfor a full evaluation.
Reach out to your child’s dentist immediately if:
- A tooth is knocked out or pushed into the gums
- There is uncontrolled bleeding from the mouth
- You notice extensive swelling or signs of infection, such as fever
- Your child seems to be in significant pain or discomfort
- You are unsure whether an injury has affected permanent teeth underneath the gums
Most pediatric dental offices offer emergency services or will accommodate urgent situations quickly. It’s helpful to keep your dentist’s contact information accessible, especially if your toddler is in the walking phase.
Until you can get to your dentist, here are some quick first aid steps to follow:
- Control any bleeding by gently applying pressure with a clean gauze or soft cloth.
- If a tooth is knocked out, do not scrub it clean. Place it in a cup of milk and bring it to the dentist immediately—although this applies more to permanent teeth than baby teeth.
- For swelling, use a cold compress on the outside of the mouth or cheek to reduce inflammation.
- Keep your child calm and offer soft foods and cool water to help soothe discomfort.
- Avoid letting your child suck on a pacifier or drink from a straw, as suction can worsen bleeding.
Worried about bumps and falls? Get tips from a trusted children’s dentist to protect your toddler’s teeth during the walking and teething stages!