There are many reasons for a toothache, and as adults we are able to identify and seek relief when necessary.For children, on the other hand, a toothache is simply an incessant pain that throbs with no relief in sight. Toothaches occur when erosion or decay penetrates the tooth’s pulp chamber, which contains nerves and minuscule blood vessels that are extremely sensitive. One of the most common reasons for toothache is diet-related, such as drinking too much soda, or eating foods that possess high sugar content, such as candy.

If your child is suffering from a toothache, plain warm water (never hot or cold) with a teaspoon of table salt can help relieve the tenderness. They should rinse their mouth out with the salty water whenever they feel pain. A cold pack against the cheek may also reduce painful twinges. However, if over-the-counter pain relievers are ineffective and the ache fails to subside within 24-36 hours, get your child booked into a trusted Dental Clinic.

Unfortunately, temporary remedies will only provide a stop-gap solution for the pain, and a trip to the dentist will be necessary. If your child has a cracked or chipped tooth, a cap or filling may be necessary, especially if it’s a permanent tooth. A children’s dentistry specialist will be able to do this for you. If an emerging tooth is found to be pushing against an existing tooth, some may have to be removed. In other situations, braces may need to be discussed.Depending on how excruciating the pain is, a toothache may be a symptom of any of the following dental problems:

  • Emerging teeth
  • Chipped teeth/cracked enamel
  • Loose and/or missing fillings
  • Tooth erosion and/or decay
  • Food inadvertently stuck between the teeth can gradually become more painful. The wedging force that pushes teeth away from one another irritates the roots as well as the gumline

If you notice that your child is being stubborn or uncooperative when it comes to brushing their teeth, this may indicate that they are experiencing toothache. If this is the case, do not hesitate to make an appointment with a dentist. 

Typically, the earlier you address these dental-based problems, the easier it will be to eliminate them.

When your child is suffering from a toothache, it is essential that you are as gentle and nurturing as possible. When your child’s toothache becomes more serious, perhaps due to a cavity or a broken tooth, it is vital that you visit a pediatric dentist without delay. If your child has never visited a dentist before and seems apprehensive about dental care in general, demonstrate to them how a trained professional can help treat the pain. Describing the procedure to them will help to calm their nerves and create a more laid-back, relaxed and comfortable patient.

Remember, proper pediatric dental care is vital.