Featured Image Caption: Kid Toothache Pain
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Parents expect their children to experience tooth pain as part of the growing process. This is especially true when a toddler’s teeth are first coming in. When a child gets older and experiences tooth pain, a parent may wonder if the situation requires them to act immediately or if the tooth pain is something that will subside on its own.
The following information may be beneficial.
What Tooth Pain Is like for Children
Most adults know why they are experiencing tooth pain. They have a cavity, their filling is loose, or their teeth are just sensitive. Very young children don’t understand why they are experiencing throbbing pain. They know it’s excruciating, and it feels like there is no viable solution in sight.
Children have toothaches because the enamel of their teeth has eroded to the point where the decay has reached the tooth’s pulp chamber. This area is full of nerves and blood vessels that are sensitive to changes in temperature and pressure.
In many cases, a mild toothache can be treated with a warm saltwater rinse. Placing an ice pack against the cheek may also minimize the pain of a toothache. However, if 24 to 36 hours have passed and the child still has a toothache, a parent should quickly book a visit with a pediatric dentist.
Conditions a Pediatric Dentist May Treat
The pediatric dentist may check the child’s mouth for cracked or chipped teeth. The dentist may apply a filling or a cap, especially if the damaged tooth is one of the child’s permanent teeth. At times, pain is caused by an emerging tooth coming in at an angle that causes it to put pressure against an existing tooth. If this is the case, some teeth may need to be removed to prevent overcrowding. Depending on the severity of the situation, your pediatric dentist may recommend visiting an orthodontist to get braces to prevent future issues.
Symptoms Showing that a Child Is Experiencing Tooth Pain
Some children are not forthcoming about the dental pain they are experiencing. Parents may notice that their child is not cooperative when it comes to brushing their teeth or they may be avoiding eating certain types of food. If this is the case, parents should promptly schedule a visit with the dentist.
An Ounce of Prevention Is Worth a Pound of Cure
The earlier parents address dental health problems, the easier these will be to resolve. Parents, remember, if a toothache is distressing to adults, it is even more distressing to children. Don’t wait until a toothache becomes something more serious.
If a child is apprehensive about visiting the dentist, parents can help minimize that apprehension by describing to a child what they should expect from the dentist and help them see how a brief visit to the dentist can result in long-term pain relief.
By Anica Oaks
who is a freelance writer and hails from San Francisco. When she’s not writing, she’s enjoying her time outside with her dogs. Anica recommends a Medicaid dentist for your pediatric dental needs.
Member since August, 2019
View all the articles of Anica Oaks.
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