How Can I Treat my Child's Toothache at Home?

Children are prone to tooth decay and cavities as they are growing, and as a result, they might experience symptoms like toothaches. However, you can treat this symptom at home before taking your child in to determine the underlying cause of the toothache. Dr. Jeni Kong and Dr. Sandra Oh can help you to keep your child’s oral and dental health in good condition. Schedule a consultation with Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry in Lawrenceville, GA today.

What causes toothaches in children?

Most of the time, toothaches that occur in children are caused by tooth decay or cavities. Children are more prone to these conditions as they have a harder time keeping their teeth clean and healthy. Toothaches do not only cause pain, they may also cause fever and malaise, or a general feeling of tiredness. There are multiple treatments for cavities such as antibiotics, fillings, or removal. You can prevent tooth decay and cavities by having a good oral hygiene routine. This should include:

• Brushing at least twice a day

• Flossing frequently

• Using mouthwash daily

• Attending dental cleanings and exams twice a year

Dr. Jeni and Dr. Oh can help keep your child cavity-free this year and for many years to come with proper dental care.

What can I do to treat toothaches at home?

When you are dealing with a child who has a toothache, the best thing to do is go to the dentist as soon as possible. However, we know that it is not always possible to do this immediately. There are a couple of things you can do to help relieve the symptoms of a toothache.

• Salt rinse: Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help to effectively reduce inflammation that could be causing toothaches. You should gargle or swish ½ teaspoon of salt in the water to remove bacteria and other harmful particles from your mouth.

• Ice packs: Ice packs can also be used to help reduce inflammation that might be caused by cavities. Ice packs should only be used for 15 minutes at a time.

• Other-the-counter pain medications: Children’s ibuprofen and acetaminophen can be used to help reduce pain, lower temperatures, and reduce inflammation for children experiencing the symptoms of toothache.

While the most important part of treating a toothache in children is going to a dental appointment, you can treat the symptoms at home. Toothaches can be extremely uncomfortable for your child, so it is important that you know ways to lessen the discomfort they are feeling during this time.

Where can I get treatment for my child’s toothache in Lawrenceville, GA?

Toothaches can be scary for children, especially when it is caused by something more serious like a cavity or tooth decay. However, there are multiple ways that you can help to reduce the discomfort, swelling, fever, and other symptoms that come with a toothache. At-home treatments can help to take away some of your child’s pain while you are waiting to get a dentist appointment. Dr. Jeni and Dr. Oh can help you find the best treatment for your child to keep their teeth healthy this year. Contact Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry in Lawrenceville, GA today for a full consultation on the overall state of your child's oral and dental health today.