Toothaches are a common complaint among children. Sometimes, it’s not a toothache at all, but rather discomfort from biting the tongue or sides of the mouth. Other times, a toothache can indicate a serious issue, in which case a visit to the pediatric dentist is in order. Understanding the most common causes of toothaches can help you determine when an appointment is necessary or when you can take care of the problem at home. 

4 Possible Causes of Toothaches in Children

1. Tooth Eruption

When a new tooth breaks through the gums, it can cause pain and discomfort for a few days, especially if the mouth is already crowded. New teeth are easy to spot coming out of the gums. Alleviate your child’s discomfort with cold compresses and over-the-counter pain relievers.

2. Stuck Food 

Getting food caught in between the teeth can be uncomfortable. Proper brushing and flossing will remove food lodged in between teeth. You may need to help your child gently floss around the painful areas. If pain persists after the food is removed, you may want to see a pediatric dentist to look into other causes.

3. Cavities 

Some cavities can cause pain, even if you don’t see any obvious evidence of decay, like tooth discoloration. If your child complains of a toothache for several days or suddenly begins experiencing sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweets in a particular tooth, make an appointment with their pediatric dentist for an exam. 

4. Abscess

An abscess is a pocket of pus surrounding a tooth caused by an infection related to decay or damage. Abscesses are extremely painful and don't respond to normal relief measures. If your child complains of severe tooth pain, they get a fever, and their face swells, call their pediatric dentist right away. 

If your child is complaining of tooth pain, bring them to Pediatric Dentistry Kahala in Honolulu, HI. Dr. Allen K. Hirai has over 24 years of experience serving children of all ages. He and his warm, welcoming staff will help your child feel comfortable during their visit. They’re also one of the only non-sedation pediatric dental practices on the islands. Call (808) 737-0076 for an appointment with the pediatric dentist, or learn more about the services offered online.