Reviewed By Dr. Jodi Kuhn
Reading time: 4 minutes
Tooth pain can quickly turn your child’s day upside down, leaving them uncomfortable and you scrambling for solutions.
Whether it’s a minor issue like food particles stuck between teeth or a more serious condition like tooth decay, understanding toothache symptoms and remedies is essential for every parent.
This guide will help you provide immediate relief from tooth pain while ensuring your child’s oral health stays on track.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaway
Tooth pain in children can stem from various causes, including cavities, gum disease, or food particles, but simple home remedies like saltwater rinses, cold packs, and clove oil can offer temporary relief. For persistent pain or swelling, visit us at Youth Dentistry in Aurora.
Common Causes of Tooth Pain in Kids
Toothaches in children can stem from various oral health issues. Here are the most common causes:
- Tooth decay: Cavities caused by plaque buildup and sugary foods are a leading cause of dental pain in children.
- Gum disease: Inflammation or infections in the gums can lead to sore, swollen gums and tooth pain.
- Tooth abscess: An untreated infection in the tooth pulp or gums can result in unbearable tooth pain and swelling.
- Sinus infection: Sinus pressure can sometimes mimic tooth pain, especially in the upper teeth.
- Food particles: A stuck piece of food between teeth can irritate gums and cause a painful tooth.
Home Remedies for Toothache Relief
When your child complains about tooth pain, these home remedies can provide temporary relief until you can see a dentist.
1. Warm Salt Water Rinse
Saltwater is a natural disinfectant with antibacterial properties.
Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and have your child swish it gently around their mouth. This reduces inflammation and flushes out harmful bacteria.
2. Cold Pack or Ice Pack
Apply a cold pack to your child’s cheek near the sore tooth.
The cold helps numb the area, reduce swelling, and improve blood flow.
3. Clove Oil
Clove oil contains numbing properties that can provide fast toothache pain relief.
Dab a cotton ball or cotton swab with a drop of clove oil and gently apply it to the painful tooth or gum.
4. Garlic Paste
Garlic has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that fight oral bacteria and infections.
Crush a fresh garlic clove into a paste and apply it to the affected area for relief from tooth pain.
5. Peppermint Tea Bags
Soak a peppermint tea bag in warm water, then let it cool slightly.
Place the tea bag on the sore tooth or gums to soothe pain with its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
6. Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse
A hydrogen peroxide rinse can help fight bacterial infections.
Mix equal parts of 3% hydrogen peroxide and water, then have your child rinse their mouth carefully (ensure they don’t swallow it).
When to See a Dentist
Home remedies offer temporary relief, but some symptoms require immediate attention from a pediatric dentist:
- Persistent toothache lasting more than 24 hours.
- Swelling in the gums, cheek, or jaw.
- Signs of a tooth abscess, such as extreme pain, fever, or pus.
- Difficulty eating, sleeping, or speaking due to dental pain.
For severe tooth pain or emergencies, don’t delay scheduling an appointment. Call our 24-hour emergency line at (303) 886-0699 if you are looking for an emergency dentist in Aurora,CO.
Preventing Toothaches in Children
The best way to protect your child from toothache symptoms is through prevention. Here are some essential tips:
- Daily oral hygiene: Ensure your child brushes twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flosses regularly to remove plaque and food particles.
- Limit sugary foods and acidic foods: Encourage a balanced diet with tooth-friendly snacks like cheese and vegetables.
- Routine dental checkups: Regular visits to a kids dentist help catch minor issues before they turn into major dental conditions.
- Sealants and fluoride treatments: Ask your dentist about preventive treatments to strengthen your child’s enamel and reduce the risk of cavities.
FAQs About Toothaches in Kids
Can a sinus infection cause tooth pain?
Yes. Sinus infections can cause pressure on the upper teeth, leading to pain that feels like a toothache. If you suspect this, consult your child’s doctor or dentist.
Is warm salt water safe for kids?
Absolutely. A saltwater rinse is a natural remedy with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that’s safe for children when used properly. However, it’s important that they don’t swallow the saltwater mixture.
What should I do if my child’s tooth pain worsens at night?
Try a cold pack, clove oil, or a dose of over-the-counter pain relievers. Persistent pain at night could signal an underlying issue, so schedule a dental appointment promptly.
Don’t Let Tooth Pain Disrupt Your Child’s Day
Toothaches can range from mild discomfort to severe tooth pain that disrupts daily life.
Visit us at Denver Youth Dentistry for regular checkups and gentle dental care for your child’s healthy, pain-free smile.
Call us today to schedule an appointment at our kids dentist office in Aurora at 14251 E. 6th Avenue, Aurora, CO.
To book an appointment at our Aurora location, call (303) 343-3133 or complete the online inquiry form!
