What is a Toothache?
A toothache in children can cause significant discomfort and make it difficult for them to eat, sleep, or focus. Tooth pain often occurs when the dental pulp—the soft center of the tooth—becomes irritated or inflamed due to cavities, injury, or infection. Symptoms may range from sharp pain to dull aches or sensitivity to hot and cold foods. It’s important not to ignore these warning signs, as early care can prevent bigger problems later. If your child has a toothache, contact Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry in Lawrenceville, GA. Dr. Jeni Kong and Dr. Milee Kim are here to provide gentle, effective care to help your child feel better and smile again.
What Causes A Toothache?
Toothaches in children can happen for many different reasons, including:
Tooth decay or cavities
Gum irritation or early gum disease
A dental infection or abscess
Cracked or chipped teeth from injury or play
New teeth coming in (like molars)
Accidental bumps or trauma to the mouth
Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism), especially at night
Identifying the cause early helps ensure your child gets the right care to feel better fast.
What are the symptoms of a toothache?
A toothache can show up differently depending on the cause, but common signs include:
Pain or discomfort when chewing or biting down
Sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks
Swelling in the gums or around the sore tooth
Bad taste or odor in the mouth
Fever or headache in more serious cases
If your child is showing any of these symptoms, schedule a dental visit with Dr. Kong or Dr. Kim to prevent the condition from worsening.
How is a toothache treated?
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the pain. At Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Kong and Dr. Kim will carefully examine your child’s teeth and recommend the most effective solution. Treatment options may include:
Tooth-colored fillings or crowns to repair cavities or fractured teeth
Gentle pulpotomy (a child-friendly root canal) to save infected baby teeth
Antibiotics if an infection is present
Tooth removal if the damage is too severe to repair
Child-safe medications to ease discomfort and swelling
Because toothaches can worsen if untreated, it’s important to seek care promptly.
Takeaways
A toothache doesn’t have to interrupt your child’s day. With gentle pediatric dental care, pain relief and long-term protection are within reach. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Jeni Kong or Dr. Milee Kim at Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry in Lawrenceville, GA to restore your child’s comfort and protect their growing smile.