What to Do About Your Child's Toothache Before Seeing the Dentist

Posted on 6/16/2025 by Giri Palani

Young girl practicing oral hygiene with a toothache, before visiting in Beverly Hills, CA

A toothache can be a frightening and painful experience for a child. As a parent, it's natural to worry and want to do everything you can to help your little one feel better. While it's important to see a dentist as soon as possible, there are some things you can do at home to relieve your child's discomfort until their appointment.

Causes of Toothaches in Children

Several things can cause toothaches in children, including:

•	Cavities: These are the most common cause of toothaches in children. Cavities are holes in the teeth that are caused by bacteria and sugar.
•	Cracked tooth: A cracked tooth can be caused by an injury or by biting down on something hard.
•	Infection: An infection in the gums or tooth can also cause a toothache.
•	Teething: Teething can cause discomfort and pain in the gums, which can sometimes be mistaken for a toothache.

Symptoms of a Toothache

The symptoms of a toothache can vary depending on the cause. Some common symptoms include:

•	Pain in the tooth or gums
•	Sensitivity to hot or cold food and drinks
•	Swelling in the gums or face
•	Bad breath
•	Difficulty chewing

What to Do for a Toothache at Home

If your child has a toothache, there are a few things you can do at home to help relieve their discomfort:

•	Clean the area around the tooth: Gently brush the tooth and gums with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
•	Apply a cold compress: Wrap a washcloth in a plastic bag filled with ice and apply it to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time.
•	Give your child over-the-counter pain medication: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help to relieve pain and inflammation. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions on the label.
•	Avoid irritating foods and drinks: Avoid giving your child sugary foods and drinks, as well as hot or cold foods and drinks.
•	Call your dentist: As soon as possible, schedule an appointment with your child's dentist to determine the cause of the toothache and get the appropriate treatment.

Preventing Toothaches

The best way to prevent toothaches is to maintain good oral hygiene habits. This includes brushing your child's teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing once a day, and visiting the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.

Seeing a children's dentist is essential for maintaining your child's oral health. These dental professionals are specially trained to care for children's teeth and can help to prevent and treat toothaches.

By following these tips, you can help your child feel better if they have a toothache and prevent future toothaches from occurring. Remember, good oral hygiene is essential for maintaining your child's overall health and well-being.

Giri Palani - Sedation Dentist, Beverly Hills, CA | sedation-dentist-beverly-hills.com | (310) 894-8301
416 N. Bedford Drive, Suite 103, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Giri Palani - Sedation Dentist, Beverly Hills, CA, 416 N. Bedford Drive, Suite 103, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 ~ (310) 894-8301 ~ sedation-dentist-beverly-hills.com ~ 5/3/2026 ~ Related Terms: Sedation Dentist Beverly Hills CA ~