What is a toothache?
When your child complains of a painful tooth, sometimes it is
just a temporarily sensitive tooth. However, it usually means that your child
has tooth decay or a cavity. One complication of a decaying tooth is a gumboil
just below the gumline. The infection in the tooth may also spread to the face
(causing a swollen cheek) or to the lymph node just under the jawbone.
How can I take care of my
child?
- Pain relief medicine
First treat the toothache with acetaminophen (Tylenol) or
ibuprofen (Advil). If the pain lasts more than a day or becomes severe, call
your dentist. An ice cube on the tooth or ice pack on the jaw for 20 minutes
will also help.
- Oil of cloves for severe toothache
If you cannot see a dentist for several days and an open
cavity is visible, clean all food out of the cavity with a toothpick, Water-Pik,
or water in a syringe. Put in a few drops of oil of cloves (80% eugenol).
You won't need a prescription to get oil of cloves. If the cavity is large,
pack it with a small piece of cotton soaked with oil of cloves. Try to keep
the oil of cloves off the tongue because it stings. The cavity can also be
temporarily sealed with melted candle wax. Just rub it in with your
fingertip.
How can I help my child prevent
toothaches?
Remind your child to brush his teeth, especially the back
molars, after every meal. After the age of 3 years, when your child is old
enough to use toothpaste, be sure to use a fluoride toothpaste. (Children
younger than 3 tend to swallow the toothpaste). If your city's water supply
doesn't have fluoride added to it, ask your health care provider for a
prescription for fluoride during your next routine visit.
When should I call my child's
dentist?
Call IMMEDIATELY if:
- The pain is very severe.
- Your child has a fever (over 100°F, or 37.8°C).
- Your child's face is swollen.
- Your child is acting very sick.
Call during office hours if:
- Your child has had the pain for more than a day.
- You have other concerns or questions.
