It can be just as painful for you to witness your child in pain. Chaska Dental Center understands how urgent it is to relieve pain, especially in a child’s tooth. Dental care is already a full ordeal for parents and uncooperative children. You may feel helpless and frustrated if you don’t know how to handle a toothache properly the one day it randomly strikes. Your children’s dentist in Chaska wants you to stay prepared with the knowledge on how to pinpoint your child’s tooth pain, how to alleviate it, and ultimately follow up or seek additional assistance at our dental office.
Find the area that’s in pain.
The first thing you should do when your child is complaining about a toothache or mouth pain is to identify what’s causing it. If your child is old enough, they can point out where the pain is or possibly identify the cause themselves. But, if your child is younger, keep an eye out for these red, swollen gums and cheeks or cavities that appear as darker spots on their teeth.
Identify the cause of pain.
Unfortunately, tooth pain can be tricky. Not all toothaches are actually toothaches. A young child may bite their tongue, have sore gums from development, or even develop ulcers in their mouth from a change in diet. Whenever new teeth come in, it can be quite painful. But, if a tooth is discolored, broken, loose, or has either dark or light spots, that is most likely what’s causing your child’s pain.
Steps to Pain Relief:
- A quick way to relieve pain is by flossing. Help your child floss to remove any food particles or dental debris that may be lodged between their teeth.
- Rinse their mouths with warm salt water. Salt water will help to relieve pain and disinfect an area that may be open and susceptible to infections.
- Use a cold compress to alleviate pain and swelling if it’s present. Apply the cold compress with a gentle pressure for 15 minutes, then off for 20 minutes.
- If they’re old enough, you can give your child either ibuprofen or acetaminophen (both act as inflammatories). Be sure to read about dosage and administer the correct amount.
Understand when it’s a dental emergency.
If your son or daughter is experiencing a strong throbbing pain, severe fatigue, or a high fever, or trouble breathing/swallowing you should either bring them to the ER or call their pediatrician as soon as possible. Of course, your family dentist in Chaska would prefer that you visit Chaska Dental Center, but if your child’s toothache is far gone, you may need additional medical attention.
Contact your dentist in Chaska.
Anytime your child is experiencing tooth pain, you should call our office. Even if it’s not a severe toothache, their tooth pain could be an indicator of incorrect development. We can help you keep you and your family from experiencing dental pain in the long run by checking on minor dental issues now. Plan for a dental exam to discover the real causes of your child’s pain. Call us to schedule an appointment today.
