FAQ Friday: What Should I Do If My Child Has A Toothache?

As parents, we worry about our children when they are in pain. A child's tooth can have many causes such as tooth decay, plaque buildup, cavities, a broken tooth, or food in-between the teeth. 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 a toothache is diet-related, such as drinking too much soda or eating foods that possess high sugar content, such as candy.

Try to find the cause of your child’s toothache. If they are old enough, ask them to point at or describe the pain. If they are younger, look for swelling, redness of gums and cheek, tooth discoloration or broken teeth. If you find a tooth that is loose, discolored or broken, you’ve likely found the cause.

Flossing, rinsing, icing, and medicating are temporary solutions to the problem. If your child’s toothache is caused by a cavity, they’ll need to see a dentist for a filling, root canal or possibly an extraction. If your child is experiencing extreme pain, fatigue or a fever, you’ll want to call your pediatrician immediately.

Schedule your child's next appointment at Cal Select Dental Group today!