As a parent, few things are more distressing than seeing your child in pain. When your little one is crying with a toothache, it can be challenging to know what to do.

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to soothe your child’s toothache and get him or her feeling comfortable again. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about dealing with a child’s toothache.

Step 1: Identify the Problem

The first step in treating a child’s toothache is to determine the cause of the pain. If your child is old enough, ask him or her where the pain is located and when it began. Common causes of toothaches in children include:.

Decay or cavities
A broken or chipped tooth
A loose or knocked-out tooth
Gum disease
A tooth abscess or infection

If you suspect that your child has an infection or abscess, contact their dentist right away. These conditions can be serious and require prompt medical attention.

Step 2: Use Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen and ibuprofen can be effective at reducing toothache pain in children. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions carefully, based on your child’s age and weight.

Never give aspirin to a child with a toothache, as it can increase the risk of bleeding.

Step 3: Try a Cold Pack

Applying a cold pack to the outside of the child’s cheek near the affected tooth can help to numb the area and reduce swelling. Wrap a bag of frozen peas or another cold object in a towel and apply it to the cheek in 15-minute intervals.

Step 4: Rinse with Salt Water

Rinsing with salt water can help to soothe a child’s toothache by reducing inflammation and killing bacteria. Mix 1 teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water and have your child swish it around in their mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out.

Repeat several times a day as needed.

Step 5: Use Clove Oil

Clove oil has natural numbing properties and can help to relieve toothache pain. Soak a cotton ball in a few drops of clove oil and have your child bite down on it gently near the affected tooth.

You can also mix a few drops of clove oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil and apply it to the gum using a Q-tip.

Step 6: Be Prepared with Dental Supplies

If your child frequently gets toothaches or has a chronic dental problem, it’s a good idea to keep dental supplies on hand. Some items you might want to have in your medicine cabinet include:.

A toothbrush and toothpaste
Dental floss
An oral antiseptic rinse
A dental mirror
An ice pack, heating pad, or warm compress

Step 7: See a Dentist

If your child’s toothache is severe or persists for more than a few days, it’s important to schedule an appointment with a dentist.

The dentist can examine your child’s teeth and gums to determine the cause of the pain and recommend appropriate treatment.

Conclusion

A toothache can be a painful and scary experience for a child. But by following these simple steps, you can help to alleviate your child’s discomfort and get them back to feeling like themselves in no time.

Remember to identify the problem, use over-the-counter pain relievers, try a cold pack or salt water rinse, use clove oil, be prepared with dental supplies, and see a dentist if necessary.