When your child has a toothache that lasts for 24 hours or longer, it often means they have a cavity or dental injury. While professional care will eventually provide lasting relief, it can still be tough for kids to endure the pain until their appointment. To help your little one feel more at ease, here are four ways to temporarily alleviate their discomfort .

4 Solutions to Soothe a Child’s Toothache

1. Dental Floss

Dental pain can occur when a piece of food gets wedged between teeth. To relieve the pressure and discomfort, have your child floss around the affected tooth. If they’re too young to floss on their own, gently help them with the process.

2. Children’s Pain Relievers

Children’s pain relievers, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, can temporarily alleviate toothaches by adjusting the way the body responds to and interprets pain signals. When using these products, follow all instructions and provide a dose appropriate for your child’s age and size.

Never apply medications directly to the tooth or gums, as this may cause a burning sensation. Additionally, never give aspirin to children, as some may respond negatively to the medication.  

3. Cold Compress

Wrap a cold compress, an ice pack, or some ice cubes in a dish towel and apply it to the outside of the affected mouth or cheek. The cold will help reduce blood flow to the area, which, in turn, can minimize any painful inflammation your child may be experiencing.

To avoid additional irritation, don’t apply the compress for more than 10 minutes at a time.

4. Saltwater Rinse

Mix a teaspoon of salt with a cup of warm water. Have your child swish the solution around in their mouth and spit it out. The saltwater can help remove bacteria that may contribute to the pain.

When toothaches strike, Pediatric Dentistry Kahala of Honolulu, HI, is here to provide your child with swift relief. Taking a kid-friendly approach, Dr. Alan K. Hirai, DDS, and his team will accurately pinpoint the source of pain. Dr. Hirai can also provide preventive care, such as routine teeth cleanings and dental sealants, to help prevent toothaches from occurring in the first place. For more information about this provider’s non-sedative treatment options, visit the clinic online. To schedule a convenient appointment, call (808) 737-0076.