If there is one thing parents do not know how to deal with, it is kids toothaches. Not only are you worried about your kids, but they become irritable when they are in pain. The first thing you should do is set an appointment with a pediatric dentist. But while you wait for the schedule, what kind of temporary relief can you offer your kids?

Causes of kids toothache

Poor dental hygiene will cause kids toothache. The pain itself comes from the damaged or exposed dentin or dental pulp. Toothache happens when the hard protective layer's enamel wears away and exposes the dentin (the second layer) and the dental pulp. That last layer is a soft tissue that contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue.

Other reasons cause kids toothache. Even those with good dental and oral hygiene may still suffer from toothache from time to time. Depending on how excruciating the pain is, the toothache may be caused by various factors. Kids are susceptible to a lot of dental conditions. These include:

  • Emerging teeth
  • Chipped teeth or cracked enamel
  • Loose or missing fillings
  • Tooth erosion and tooth decay
  • Food stuck between the teeth
  • Accidents

Rinse with saltwater

While waiting for the dentist's appointment, one way to relieve kids' toothache is to use salt water. Warm or cold water will work for this technique. The saltwater will alleviate the pain and ease the discomfort. It can also reduce swelling, which causes the tooth to be sensitive. Take a glass of water, mix half a teaspoon of salt, then use the mixture as a mouthwash.

Apply cold compress

One of the first things that parents should do is apply a cold compress. Put ice cubes in a bag and use it on the child’s outer cheek. Hold this for 20 minutes and repeat every few hours. The cold will help relieve the pain and reduce inflammation. It will also make the kids easier to cooperate with.

Make a garlic paste

Parents can make a garlic paste and apply it to the affected tooth unless the kids are allergic to garlic. While no one wants garlic breath, the antibacterial properties of garlic will kill harmful bacteria and relieve the pain. To make a paste, crush two to three garlic cloves and use a cotton bud to apply it to the tooth. Parents can also add a pinch of salt to reduce irritation.

Use peppermint plant

The Peppermint plant can alleviate headaches, common cold, and nausea. However, not many know it can also cure kids' toothache. Put crushed peppermint plants in a teabag and once it is warm enough, press it against the tooth. Parents can also use a few drops of peppermint oil on a cotton ball to rub it on the tooth.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Pediatric Dentist in Reston, VA

Preventing toothache in kids

Parents need to teach kids proper dental hygiene to prevent toothache and tooth decay. Practice brushing their teeth at least twice a day and limit sugar consumption. If they have to eat sweets, make sure to rinse their mouth with water or mouthwash. Also, parents must bring the kids to a pediatric dentist every six months. The dentist will provide a guideline on how parents and kids can improve their dental hygiene.

Request an appointment or call Precision Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry at 703-391-8800 for an appointment in our Reston office.

Recent Posts

How Painless Pediatric Dentistry Can Ease Your Child's Fears

Children are often afraid to go to the dentist because it is a new, unfamiliar place full of sights, smells, and sounds that they do not know, but the good news is that painless pediatric dentistry is one possible solution to help your child get to know the dentist in a positive light. By avoiding…

First-Time Visit To A Pediatric Dentist: A Parent's Guide

When parents decide to take their child to the dentist for the first time, they often do not know what to expect, but fortunately, a pediatric dentist is a professional who dedicates their attention to treating children, which can help put your mind at ease. That said, knowing what your child (and you!) will go…

Exploring Pediatric Dental Services: What Parents Should Know

Curious about pediatric dental services? Read on to learn more. Protecting their children's smiles and dental health should be a top priority for every parent. Pediatric dental services are essential today due to the changing healthcare environment and increasing demand for oral hygiene. This article covers some of these services and what every parent needs…

Precision Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry

Share
Published by
Precision Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry

Recent Posts

Why You Should Consider Invisalign for Teens

If your child is concerned about crooked teeth or a bad bite, you may want…

2 days ago

Ask Your Orthodontist About Invisalign for Teens

As a child's mouth and teeth develop throughout their teenage years, it may become apparent…

3 days ago

Invisalign for Teens: What Foods to Avoid

Many families with adolescents needing straighter smiles opt for Invisalign® for teens over traditional braces.…

1 week ago

Invisalign Can Correct Your Teen’s Improper Bite

The teenage years can be awkward, especially for those who have to deal with crooked…

2 weeks ago

How Painless Pediatric Dentistry Can Ease Your Child’s Fears

The dentist's office does not need to be a scary place! By keeping the process…

2 weeks ago

First-Time Visit to a Pediatric Dentist: A Parent’s Guide

Pediatric dentists are dental professionals who treat children, usually from before their first tooth eruption…

2 weeks ago