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What Should I do if my Child has a Toothache?
As parents, we always want to keep our children healthy, happy, and pain-free. But what happens if your child suddenly complains of a toothache? It can be concerning and stressful for parents not knowing what to do and even more difficult for the child in pain!
Toothaches can be caused by various reasons like cavities, gum disease, or even from an injury. Here at brush-baby we are experts in children's toothcare, and in this blog, we will help you understand what you should do if your child has a toothache. Read on to gain tips and tricks on how to ease the pain and prevent future dental problems.
Identify the Cause of the Toothache
Before you can begin to treat the toothache, it is important to identify the cause. The most common cause of toothache in children is cavities. However, other issues like gum disease, impacted teeth, and even sinus infections can cause tooth pain. Upon identifying the cause, you can provide the right treatment option. The NHS recommend seeing a dentist if;
- It lasts more than 2 days
- Doesn’t go away when you take painkillers
- You also have high temperature, pain when you bite, red gums, or a bad taste in your mouth
- Your cheek or jaw is swollen
If you are unsure, make an appointment with your dentist and they will be able to point you in the right direction.
Apply a Cold Compress
Another way to help ease the pain is to apply a cold compress to the area. This can help reduce swelling and numb the pain. Wrap a bag of ice with a towel and apply it to the affected area for about 20 minutes.
Offer Over-the-counter Pain Relief
If the toothache is making your child uncomfortable, you can offer over-the-counter pain relief. Ibuprofen or paracetamol can be given in age-appropriate doses. However, it is important to check with your dentist or doctor if your child is on medication or has any allergies. The pharmacy may also be able to advise you on the best medication to take to relieve the pain.
Eat soft foods
Eating soft foods like scrambled eggs and yoghurt will reduce the amount of chewing and pressure on the tooth. Try to avoid foods that are very hot, cold, or sugary to not aggravate the symptoms. Try to avoid chewing on the affected tooth and this may help relieve symptoms whilst awaiting treatment.
Make an Appointment with the Dentist
In most cases, toothaches require a dental visit. Making an appointment as soon as possible is important to prevent the issue from worsening. Delaying treatment can lead to further complications like a root canal or even tooth loss. Your dentist will examine your child's teeth and gums and provide a treatment plan to address the issue.
How can I prevent toothache in the future?
A great way to prevent toothache in children is by promoting a good dental routine. Engage your child whilst brushing their teeth by using our kids electric toothbrush. With flashing lights and a two minute timer, your child will soon love brushing their teeth! Pair it with our yummy children’s toothpaste and your child won’t want to stop brushing their milk teeth! Shop our range of kids toothbrushes and infant toothpaste today!
Don't forget to floss in between their teeth to remove any food debris with our FlossBrush Bristle Toothbrush. You can also encourage a good dental routine by scheduling regular appointments with your child’s dentists, and cutting down on sugary foods and drinks.
Toothache in a child can be a stressful and concerning experience for parents. However, knowing what to do can help ease the pain and prevent future issues. Identifying the cause, offering over-the-counter pain relief, applying a cold compress, and making an appointment with the dentist are all steps that can help address the toothache. As always, prevention is better than cure. Encouraging good dental habits like brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits can help prevent toothaches and other dental problems.
