Toothaches can be incredibly uncomfortable for children, especially if they aren’t used to recognizing the early signs of dental trouble. Nagging tooth pain makes it hard to sleep, eat, and even talk; depending on the severity, it may require urgent care at home in the middle of the night. Here are three ways to alleviate your child’s discomfort so you can handle the issue before seeing the dentist. 

How to Quell Your Child’s Toothache

1. Apply a Cold Compress

Cool temperatures can soothe inflammation by constricting blood vessels and reducing swelling, so consider applying a cold compress to the outside of the jaw, or around the tooth itself. Have your child sip on ice water if they can and try to stay away from beverages that could irritate the decay or damage. When you apply compresses, allow the area to warm back up every twenty minutes or so to protect the tissue. 

2. Offer Appropriate Pain Medication 

One way to soothe pain quickly is by offering your child the appropriate dose of an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Keep track of when you administer medication, so you don’t overdo it, and remember that pain relief is only a temporary fix. Call the dentist immediately to schedule urgent treatment. Often, they can fit emergency patients in between other appointments. 

3. Try Benzocaine 

Another great way to calm a toothache is by applying a small amount of benzocaine directly to the inflamed area. This topical pain-relieving gel is a mild local analgesic, making it easier for your little one to cope with the discomfort. 

When your little one needs urgent assistance from a dentist, give iCare Dentistry a call. In addition to emergency dental care, they also offer a wide range of service options for patients of all ages. Whether you are concerned about a yellowing smile or losing sleep over a nagging toothache, their team can help. To learn more about their services in Norcross, GA, visit them online or call (770) 609-6106 to schedule an appointment with a dentist today.