text: how do i help my son's infected toe? my 9 year old son dropped a weight on it a few months ago and it turned black & a new nail is growing underneath.  i assumed the old nail would just fall off.  however, in the last week or so, it has started to smell very bad.  i tried scrubbing it but it hasn't helped.  should he see a doctor or is something over the counter that can help him? here's a great link that should answer all your questions.  you need to see a dr. for this one!  good luck!  http://www.healthopedia.com/smashed-fingers/treatment.html