Reviewed by Dr Kathryn Stanley
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Reading Time: Four Minutes
It’s never easy to see your child dealing with tooth pain. Whether it comes on suddenly or builds up slowly, a toothache can make eating, sleeping, and even smiling uncomfortable.
The good news? Many common causes of toothaches in children are treatable, and there are a few simple things you can do to help ease the pain before you get to the dentist.
In this blog, we will explain what causes toothaches in children, what home remedies can help in the short term, and when it’s time to schedule a dental visit.
Key Takeaway
If your child has a toothache, start by rinsing with warm water, removing food particles, and applying a cold compress. Always ask a pediatric dentist to evaluate lingering pain.
Table of Contents
Common Causes of Toothaches in Children
Tooth pain can come from many sources, some serious, some not. The most common causes of toothaches in kids include:
- Tooth decay: Cavities are one of the most common causes of tooth pain in children. Bacteria from sugary foods create acids that wear down the enamel, exposing the sensitive inner layers of the tooth.
- Loose teeth: When baby teeth start to wiggle, they can make chewing uncomfortable or cause gum irritation.
- Food particles: Bits of food stuck between teeth or under the gums can cause localized pain or swelling.
- Emerging adult teeth: As permanent teeth push through, they can create pressure and soreness in the gums.
- Injury: A cracked or chipped tooth from a fall or sports injury may not always be visible, but it can definitely hurt.
First Steps for Soothing a Painful Tooth
You don’t need a medicine cabinet full of products to help your child feel better. Some of the most effective remedies are simple and safe.
- Rinse with warm water and salt – Combine a teaspoon of salt with a cup of warm water and have your child rinse gently. Rinsing with salt water helps reduce inflammation, clears away food particles, and uses the natural antibacterial properties of salt to soothe the area. Be sure your child spits out the rinse instead of swallowing it.
- Gently floss around the sore area – Food stuck between the teeth can put pressure on the gums and make a mild toothache worse. Carefully floss the area to see if that brings relief.
- Apply a cold compress – Hold a cold compress or towel wrapped ice pack to the outside of the cheek near the painful tooth. This can reduce swelling and numb the area temporarily.
- Try clove oil for pain relief – Clove oil has natural numbing and antibacterial properties. Dab a tiny amount onto a cotton swab or cotton ball and gently apply it to the sore area. This should be done under adult supervision and never swallowed.
- Use an over-the-counter pain reliever (if needed) – If the pain is affecting your child’s sleep or ability to eat, an over-the-counter pain reliever may help. Always follow the dosing instructions based on your child’s age and weight.
When to Call the Pediatric Dentist
Some toothaches need more than just a home remedy. Call your pediatric dentist if:
- The pain lasts more than a day or two
- There is visible swelling in the gums or face
- Your child has a fever
- The toothache is severe or keeps returning
- The painful tooth appears dark or damaged
Persistent tooth pain could mean there is an issue inside the tooth or with the surrounding blood vessels. A pediatric dentist can evaluate your child’s oral health and recommend the right dental treatment.
Tips to Help Prevent Toothaches in the Future
Prevention is always better than treatment especially when it comes to oral health. Here are some habits that help protect your child’s teeth from painful problems:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily, especially between tight teeth
- Limit sugary foods and drinks
- Encourage water instead of juice or soda
- Keep up with regular dental checkups
Even baby teeth play a vital role in your child’s development. They help with speech and chewing, and they hold space for adult teeth to come in properly. Keeping them healthy is key to preventing future problems.
We Are Here When You Need Us
If your child has a toothache that won’t go away, don’t wait it out. At Stanley Pediatric Dentistry in Overland Park, we offer compassionate, expert dental care for kids of all ages.
Whether it’s a cavity, injury, or just a case of stubborn food stuck between the teeth, we are here to help your child feel better fast.
Book an Appointment With a Pediatric Dentist in Overland Park, KS
We are always accepting new patients, and we would love to be your child’s dental home. Contact us today to schedule your child’s first or next dental visit with our caring team!
To book an appointment at our pediatric dental office in Overland Park, KS, call (913) 345-0331 or visit us at 8575 W 110th St Suite 310, Overland Park, KS.
FAQs About Kids Toothache Pain Relief
What is the fastest way to relieve toothache pain?
Start with a warm salt water rinse to clean the area and ease inflammation. Follow that with a cold compress to help with swelling. You can also apply clove oil or give your child a safe, age-appropriate pain reliever. These methods work quickly to ease discomfort while you schedule a visit with a pediatric dentist.
Should I take my child to the ER for a toothache?
Most toothaches do not require an ER visit, but if your child has severe swelling, trouble breathing, a high fever, or signs of a serious infection, head to the emergency room right away. Otherwise, call your pediatric dentist for the appropriate dental care.
