What Should I Do If My Child Has a Toothache?
If your child suffers from toothache, it is highly advisable to consult your child’s pediatric dentist. However, there are some home remedies and on-the-counter medicines that you can try.
In this blog, you will find the most effective methods to relieve pain while waiting for your pediatric dentist’s appointment.
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What Can Help My Child’s Toothache?
As a parent, you must be gentle and nurturing when your child has a toothache. In case of severe toothache, such as cavities or broken or chipped teeth, visiting the pediatric dentist is necessary.
Before taking your child to the dentist, you must prepare them. Share details related to a dental appointment so they know what to expect.
But until you get one, you can try these remedies.
Rinse with Salt Water Solution
One of the most effective remedies is to have the child rinse the mouth with a warm salt and water solution several times a day. Boil the water and add one tablespoon of table salt. Mix it thoroughly, then let it cool. It should not be too hot or too cold. This salty solution will help relieve the tenderness.
Over-the-Counter Pain Medications
Another remedy is to give your child pain relief medicines available at your nearby pharmacy store. The dose should be according to your child’s age. Some over-the-counter pain relievers are acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil). However, if the pain persists and does not subside within 24-36 hours, you must book an appointment with your pediatric dentist.
Apply a Cold Compress
When the bacteria continues to spread and reaches the pulp, it damages the tissues, leading to a gangrenous pulp. This causes gases, which create pressure on your child’s tooth. Applying the cold press for about 2 minutes to the affected area can help shrink the gases, reducing toothache. It will relieve swelling and pain by constricting the vessels and slowing blood flow. Cold compress also minimizes nerve activity, thus numbing the area.
Make Your Child Stop Eating Food Causing Irritation
Another effective way to control toothache is to prevent your child from eating sugary drinks and foods, as these foods can aggravate the toothache.
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Final Thoughts
Unfortunately, these home remedies are temporary and do not provide a long-term solution for the toothache. Therefore, taking your child to an expert pediatric dentist is mandatory.
If your child has a chipped or cracked tooth, a cap or filling is needed, especially if it is a permanent tooth. A pediatric dentist will determine the reason for this and prescribe the appropriate treatment accordingly.
Are you a parent looking for an expert pediatric dentist near you in Houston, visit our dental expert at Lifeline Dental. Call (281) 409-3777 to schedule an appointment with us.