What to Do If Your Child Has a Toothache?

When your child says their tooth hurts, it can be worrying. Most of the time, a toothache means something simple, like food stuck between teeth or mild irritation, but it can also signal a cavity or early gum infection. Knowing what to do helps you stay calm and helps your child feel better faster.

At Humble Kids Dentistry in Humble, TX, we see many children with toothaches caused by everyday dental issues. Our goal is to help families understand what’s happening and how to handle it with care.

Why do kids get toothaches?

Children can develop tooth pain for several reasons. Common causes include:

• Cavities from leftover food and bacteria
• Swollen or irritated gums
• A loose baby tooth
• A cracked or chipped tooth
• Something stuck between teeth
• Tooth sensitivity from new adult teeth coming in

Mild pain might come and go, but ongoing or sharp pain should always be checked by a dentist.

What should I do if my child has a toothache?

1. Stay calm and ask questions.
   Gently ask your child where it hurts, when it started, and what makes it worse. This helps you understand if it’s a simple irritation or something more serious.

    

2. Look inside their mouth
   Check for redness, swelling, or food caught between teeth. If you see something stuck, try to remove it gently with floss. Avoid using sharp objects.

    

3. Rinse with warm water.
   A warm saltwater rinse can clean the area and reduce discomfort. Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and have your child rinse for about 30 seconds before spitting it out.

    

4. Use a cold compress for swelling.
   If their cheek looks puffy, hold a cold, damp washcloth to the outside of the face for a few minutes at a time. This helps ease swelling and tenderness.

    

5. Offer safe pain relief if needed.
   You can give a child-appropriate pain reliever if the pain persists. Always follow dosing instructions on the label or from your child’s doctor.

    

6. Call your child’s dentist.
   If the pain lasts more than a day, or you notice swelling, bleeding, or fever, it’s time to schedule a dental visit. A dentist can find out if your child needs a filling, cleaning, or another treatment to stop the pain.
   
   

What happens during the dental visit

During a visit, the dentist will examine the tooth, take X-rays if needed, and gently identify the cause of the pain. Common treatments might include:

• Cleaning and checkup to remove plaque or food debris
• Cavity treatment and fillings to stop decay
• Gum care if there’s an infection or irritation
• Tooth extraction if a baby tooth is badly damaged or causing crowding
• Sedation dentistry if your child feels anxious about treatment

The goal is always to relieve pain, protect healthy teeth, and prevent future problems.

Preventing future toothaches

Once your child feels better, it’s a great time to talk about healthy habits. Encourage brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and visiting the dentist for regular cleanings and checkups. Offer water instead of sugary drinks and limit sticky snacks that can lead to decay.

Final thoughts

Toothaches are never fun, but they can be handled with care and patience. Start with gentle home steps, keep your child comfortable, and call your dentist if the pain doesn’t go away. With quick attention and healthy habits, your child’s smile can stay bright and pain-free.

If your child continues to experience tooth pain or discomfort, it’s best to schedule a visit with Humble Kids Dentistry in Humble, TX. Our friendly team provides gentle care for children of all ages and helps families find the cause of toothaches before they turn into bigger problems. Contact the office to book an appointment and make sure your child’s smile stays healthy and strong.