As a parent, it is crucial that you learn how to quell a child’s toothache. A recent study found that 36% of children will suffer from toothache at some point during their childhood. Since you don’t know when a child’s toothache emergency will come up, it is good to always be prepared. Even if you aren’t a dentist or in the medical space, there are a few things you can do to help ease your child’s toothache pain.
This article is going to unveil some effective ways to address your child’s toothache.
Why you should take prompt action
Regardless of the severity of your child’s toothache, it is important that you seek prompt medical attention. Dentists have pointed out that toothache, when not promptly treated, can cause tooth loss and oral infection.
Child’s toothache – Causes and Symptoms
Toothache is an uncomfortable condition that is characterized by mild to severe pain that lingers around the tooth region. The condition occurs when the tooth’s pulp chamber is exposed. This could be caused by decay or erosion.
Even kids that use floss daily and use a bamboo toothbrush may still become prone to toothaches if they consume too much sugary and highly processed food and drinks.
Signs and symptoms of toothache in children
Since you aren’t a dentist it may be difficult for you to accurately tell if your child has a toothache or not. Below are some toothache symptoms you should look out for.
- Fever
- Mild to severe pain in the tooth that gets worse when it is touched
- General weakness of the body
- Pain when the tooth gets in contact with cold and hot foods.
Keep in mind that toothache could also be a symptom of any of these dental issues.
- Tooth decay
- Loose fillings
- Chipped enamel
- Food remains stuck between the teeth
- Emerging teeth
How to soothe a child’s Toothache
As soon as your child starts experiencing the symptoms of toothache, you should take him to a dentist as soon as possible. If for some reason, you aren’t able to visit the dentist, you should try any of the above tips to reduce the pain associated with the condition.
Use an ice pack or Cold compress
See, you can never tell when a child’s toothache emergency is going to spring up. If it happens during a vacation or away from home, you can use a cold compress. If you can’t get your hands on a cold compress, you can use an ice pack as an alternative. Applying a cold compress or an ice pack to the affected area can help reduce pain and inflammation. To get the best result, you may need to apply the compress to the affected area for 10-20 minutes.
Pain relief medication
If toothache pain is serious and you can’t visit a dentist right away, you should consider giving your child pain relief medication. Drugs like acetaminophen can help dull the pain in the affected area. Ensure that you give your child the right dosage the medication.
Home remedy for child’s toothache
Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera can kill the bacteria that cause tooth decay and reduce pain. Using it is pretty straightforward. All you have to do is to generously apply aloe vera gel on the affected region and massage carefully.
Clove oil
Clove oil can help relieve toothache, as it contains eugenol. Eugenol is an anesthetic that can reduce pain. Here is how to use it.
- Carefully soak a cotton ball or a soft clean cloth in clove oil
- Apply the soaked cotton or cloth on the affected area
Thyme
Thyme is a herb that is loaded with antioxidants. Even more, it has antibacterial properties. This makes it perfect for addressing toothache. Here is how to use it.
- Half-fill a cup with hot water
- Put a few thyme leaves
- Allow the mixture to cool down
- Let your little one use the mixture as a mouthwash
Final note
There you have, some effective ways to help a child’s toothache. Trying any of the above remedies will help dull the pain associated with the condition. Even if the pain subsides, it is wise that you still take your child to a dentist. As you know, dentists have the skill and experience to narrow down the cause of the issue and determine the best way to address it.