How To Help Your Child’s Toothache

If your child has a toothache that lasts more than 24-48 hours, you need to see a dentist like Dr. Benjamin Burkitt as soon as you can to get help. But until you can call us at (540) 724-6335 and schedule a same-day emergency appointment for your little one, there are a few steps you can take to help your child with the pain of a toothache.

1. Try To Identify The Cause Of The Toothache

There are many different things that can cause a toothache in kids. Here are a few of the most common causes of toothaches.

Tooth decay (cavities) are a common cause of tooth decay. Over time, an untreated cavity can cause the tooth to become infected, which will result in serious oral pain. If your child’s tooth has brown or black spots or visible holes and pits, this may be the cause of the issue.
Oral trauma from a slip and fall, sports, or another accident can result in tooth soreness, or even a broken or cracked tooth. If your child has recently been in an accident that caused oral trauma, this may be the cause of the toothache.
Failing dental work, such as a filling or crown that’s loose, can cause tooth sensitivity and pain, and should be treated and replaced right away.
Food stuck underneath or between a tooth can result in a tooth infection (abscess). Look for food near your child’s affected tooth, and try to remove it with floss. If you can’t find the food or remove it with floss, you’ll need help from a dentist like Dr. Burkitt.

2. Use A Salt Water Rinse

Rinsing your child’s mouth with a tablespoon of salt dissolved in warm (not hot!) water can help clean the tooth area and relieve some pain and discomfort until you can see a dentist. This is a particularly good option if your child refuses to brush near their sore tooth.

3. Try Over-The-Counter Pain Relievers

Children’s Tylenol, Motrin, and other pain relievers can be a good option for pain relief. Use these over-the-counter medicines as directed based on your child’s age and weight.

Topical pain relievers like Orajel can also be used, but note that products containing benzocaine should not be used on kids under the age of 2, according to the FDA.

4. Use A Cold Pack

A cold pack, applied to the cheek near the affected tooth for 10 minutes at a time, can be a helpful way to numb the tooth and get relief from pain and discomfort until your child can see Dr. Burkitt for treatment.

Your Child’s Toothache Should Always Be Diagnosed And Treated By A Dentist

A toothache is a serious problem, and the above solutions are only temporary fixes for the issue. For permanent treatment, your child needs to see Dr. Burkitt at We Care Dental Care. Dr. Burkitt will identify the cause of the toothache, provide your child with the proper treatment, and resolve the issue, relieving them of their pain and discomfort. Contact us online or call now at 540-427-7274 to schedule the treatment your little one needs right away.