Everyone has experienced some form of tooth pain, and severe cases may indicate an advanced dental infection that requires immediate treatment. However, tooth pain may also seem to happen for no reason and go away on its own or after a thorough oral hygiene session. Here’s a brief guide to tooth pain as well as a few tips for recognizing when your child needs to see an emergency dentist to prevent tooth loss and further infection.
What Causes a Toothache?
Toothaches vary in severity and can be caused by a range of factors. A few reasons your child may have dental pain include:
- Trauma such as biting too hard on something or a blow to the mouth
- An untreated cavity
- Infection in the pulp of the tooth
- Teeth grinding or clenching (also called bruxism)
- A sinus infection
- An impacted wisdom tooth
- Something stuck between the teeth
How Can I Treat a Toothache at Home?
There are a few effective at-home remedies for treating a toothache, such as:
- Holding an ice pack or cold compress over the cheek covering the troubled tooth
- Rinsing the mouth with a warm solution of salt and water to reduce swelling and eliminate bacteria
- Flossing to remove debris trapped between the teeth
- Using an over-the-counter pain reliever
- Applying clove oil to a cotton ball and holding it over the afflicted tooth
When Should My Child See an Emergency Dentist for a Toothache?
If your child has tried brushing and flossing but still has a toothache twenty-four hours later, they probably need to see an emergency dentist for treatment. A severe, throbbing toothache usually indicates infected pulp tissue within the tooth, especially if it is accompanied by a bitter or sour taste in the mouth. Leaving such an infection untreated can lead to tooth loss, the decay spreading to the other teeth, and possibly dangerous secondary infections like sepsis and pneumonia.
Toothaches are a royal pain, but your dentist is well-equipped for dealing with them. Getting your child the treatment they need can relieve their discomfort and help them maintain a beautiful smile for life.
About the Practice
Capezio Loiben Pediatric Dentistry offers the finest oral health services available to the children of Buffalo Grove. Led by Dr. Nicholas Capezio and Ted Loiben, the staff is dedicated to delivering excellent dental care in a fun and child-friendly environment. Areas of expertise include pediatric dentistry, orthodontic referrals, and emergency kids’ dentistry. If you are concerned about your child’s toothache, dial (847) 459-9100. For other inquiries, contact the practice online