A Pediatric Dentist Explains 5 Things You Should Do If Your Child Complains of a Toothache

Wondering why you should choose a pediatric dentist when your child is in need of dental care? Pediatric dentists receive additional training that allows them to provide your child with the optimal dental services they deserve. Pediatric dentists understand everything there is to know about treating toothaches in children. Ready to learn more about what you should do if your child is currently complaining about a toothache?

About toothaches

Want information from a pediatric dentist about addressing toothaches in children? Toothaches are a fairly common occurrence in children and are often caused by some degree of tooth decay. Additional reasons for toothaches in children include a chipped tooth, a loose tooth and a missing filling. Toothache pain can be minimal or extreme, dull or sharp and can last for a few hours, a few days or longer.

Things parents should do if their child complains of a toothache

The following is a list of five things parents can do when their child complains that one or more of their teeth hurt.

#1. Look for the reason behind the pain

The first thing parents need to do is find out where the pain is coming from. Has the child recently suffered some type of injury that is causing their tooth pain? If the child is old enough to talk, the parents can simply ask them to explain the pain. If too young, the parents will need to look inside their mouths to try to determine where the pain is coming from. If there are no obvious signs of tooth injury, then it is likely the pain is due to some form of tooth decay.

#2. Ask them to rate their level of pain

Asking a child to rate their level of pain on a scale from one to 10 can help parents understand just how severe their child’s toothache really is. Tell the child that number one means there is just a little bit of pain, and number 10 means that it hurts so much, they cannot think about anything else. Extreme pain warrants a trip to the dental office as soon as possible.

#3. Rinse their mouth with warm saltwater

Rinsing the mouth with warm saltwater helps relieve any pain and/or swelling present due to the toothache, as saltwater acts as an antiseptic. It is possible for the toothache to go away after rinsing, normally between 24 and 48 hours. If the toothache persists, a dental visit is required.

#4. Use a cold compress

Placing a cold compress on the area helps reduce discomfort and pain. Cold treatments restrict the blood vessels, slowing down the amount of blood flowing to or near the toothache area. If the toothache continues after two days’ time, dental treatment is required.

#5. Give them an over-the-counter pain reliever

Over-the-counter pain relievers for children include acetaminophen and ibuprofen. The dosage a child receives is based on their age and should be given to them per the instructions. While pain relievers will help the child experience less pain, it does not address the underlying reason for the toothache.

Looking for a new dentist?

In need of a new pediatric dentist? A pediatric dentist can help if your child is experiencing a toothache. It does not matter whether the toothache is minor or major, making an appointment as soon as possible is recommended. The longer a child suffers from a toothache, the more difficult it will be to treat.

Are you considering a pediatric dentist in the Richmond area? Get more information at https://www.grandparkwaypediatricdental.com.

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