Top 3 Toothache Tips for Kids

Almost all of us have experienced a toothache, so we know how uncomfortable the pain can be for adults. But when a toothache happens to a child, it’s a different story. The parent side of us wants to make the pain go away as soon possible and tries to make our children understand. But it’s not always an easy thing to do. At our Long Island pediatric dental office, we’re always happy to help relieve toothache pain. But if your child gets a toothache when we aren’t open or even while you’re away on vacation, there are some tips you can try to help ease the pain.

• Salt Water: If your child is old enough, have him rinse with warm salt water Mix a cup of warm water with a tablespoon of salt and have him swish it around in his mouth. The mixture can actually pull the fluid away from the affected area and reduce pressure on the nerve endings. Stress to him to spit it out and not to swallow it. You can repeat as needed.
• Cold Compress: Gently holding a mushy cold compress to the outside of the mouth where it hurts can also relieve swelling. Do not place the cold pack directly on the skin. Instead, wrap it in a towel.
• Anti-Inflammatories: Giving your child an age-appropriate anti-inflammatory medicine may also help him feel a bit better. Clove oil may also work. Clove oil is a natural analgesic and has antimicrobial properties. All you need to do is soak a cotton swab with 2-3 drops and gently dab it on the area that hurts.

Avoid it in the First Place

Oftentimes toothaches are caused by a cavity or infection. While we can’t guarantee these won’t happen to your child, we can tell you with absolute certainty that regular pediatric dental cleanings and exams can help minimize the risk. Pair appointments at least every six months with proper at-home oral hygiene of brushing twice a day for at least two minutes and flossing once a day for best defense against toothaches.

Although these few tricks may help ease your child’s pain, it’s important to know that a toothache is the mouth’s way of saying that something isn’t right. It’s never wise to assume that easing the pain is enough. In its early stages, a toothache could be the result of a minor dental problem that’s easily fixed by your Long Island pediatric dentist. If let go, a simple problem can turn into something more severe.

If your child complains of tooth pain, don’t assume that it’s not a big deal and please don’t let it go. Call our pediatric dental office in Long Island as soon as you can. We can help you determine what’s causing the pain and get it fixed for a healthy, pain-free smile.

Accepting patients from Long Island, Westbury, and Nassau County.

About The Author

Dr. Glen Ehrenman

In April this year, Dr. Glen Ehrenman received a Lifetime Diplomate status and an award from the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry (ABPD), where he has been a diplomate since 1995. Since 2010, he has been a clinical assistant professor and mentor at the State University of New York Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine. He has memberships with dental organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association, New York State Dental Association, and the Nassau County Dental Society. His commitment to excellence earned him the Top DDS of 2012 award from Long Island Pulse Magazine.

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