How to relieve toothache in children

Toothache It’s one of the worst feelings in the world – even for adults. When it comes to toothache in children, it can be even more difficult. That’s because, depending on the scene, toddlers can’t express exactly what, where, and how much it hurts. They cry, they get angry – and no wonder. It really bothers you!

Toothache in children: the main causes

According to pediatric dentist Juliana Frigo (@mamaodonto), from Clínica Frigo, in São Paulo (SP), The most common causes of toothache in children are dental trauma (when your child knocks or hurts their tooth for some reason), cavities, gum inflammation, or teething..

“In babies, the main cause is teething”, explains. “It’s a physiological process, but there are signs and symptoms that lead to irritation, pain and discomfort,” he adds. In the stages of teething, they may have fever, increased crying and bad mood. Other possible symptoms are swollen and reddened gums, lack of appetite and excessive salivation. The child also tends to put his hands and objects in his mouth more often.

In the case of cavities, trauma and inflammation, which generally occur in older children, it is important to observe the mouth and assess if there is anything different, such as swelling of the gums or change in the appearance of the oral cavity.

What is good for toothache?

The first step is contact the pediatric dentist try to schedule an appointment and, depending on the intensity of the concern, an adjustment. According to Juliana, in urgent cases, the specialist can show some Measures to reduce toothache at home, until the moment of service. For example:

• Rinse with warm water;
• Analgesic medications (indicated by the pediatric dentist);
• Ice compress;
• Brush your teeth well.

“Remember: nothing replaces the dentist’s assessment”, reinforces the specialist.

Can ice cream and cold things relieve a toothache?

Many children don’t like going to the pediatric dentist… Until he recommends they eat ice cream! Jokes aside, Juliana explains this Cold foods help relieve toothache and reduce inflammation and swelling..

“In the eruption phase, cold teeth, cold fruit and homemade popcorn (if the child is already in the phase of introducing food) help reduce pain in the area,” he says. “This is because the cold causes vasoconstriction (when the blood vessels narrow), generating a sensation of anesthesia”, he says.

Toothache in children: what not to do

For the specialist, The most important thing is not to ignore your child’s complaint. “At the first signs of complaints, contact your pediatric dentist. The worst thing we can do is ‘let it go’. This pain can grow, progress and the consequences can be worse“, he advises, recommending that parents always try to listen to the little one and try to identify the tooth or the area that worries them.

The dentist will be able to make an assessment, a diagnosis and provide all the necessary information to solve the problem. “In addition, preventive consultations are very important, as there parents will receive instructions on brushing their teeth, get to know their child’s oral cavity better and can learn how to take care of their child’s oral health, thus avoiding pain, discomfort and illness. .”, he reinforces.

Even the pediatric dentist remembers this the consultation is not limited to a one-hour meeting, but represents all the help provided throughout the child’s growth and development.as is done with a pediatrician.