Toothaches are a common dental symptom that can start up suddenly. Toothaches are also an extremely broad symptom that can both be very different in how they feel and what they might mean. It is also important to understand that while many toothaches are relatively minor and temporary, others can indicate more serious dental conditions, needing professional help and/or intervention. In this article, we will highlight some causes of toothaches in children and when toothaches need professional dental assistance.
Whats Causes A Toothache For A Child
There are many potential causes for toothache in children, some of which are:
- Tooth decay (cavity): Tooth decay is the most common cause of people in general complaining of tooth pain, especially in children who often eat a lot of sugary sweets/foods and brush poorly and inconsistently.
- Loose baby teeth: As children’s teeth begin to loosen, they can experience mild pain or sensitivity in some cases.
- Gum infections/infection of inflammation: Gum disease is a painful condition often characterized by red, swollen, and/or bleeding gums, causing discomfort.
- Cracked or chipped teeth: Chipped or cracked teeth occur during falls or accidents or can be the result of biting down on hard foods.
- Food stuck between or in teeth: Sometimes, food can be stuck or packed between the teeth, which can irritate the gums and cause some pain.
- Sinus infection: Oftentimes tooth pain from the upper teeth can be due to sinus pressure and infection.
When Should You See a Dentist?
A toothache does not always mean that you have an underlying issue. As mentioned above, a toothache could be a sign of a major dental problem like infection, or it could be simply caused by food getting stuck between teeth. You should consider bringing your child to the dentist if any of the following are true:
- The pain continues for more than a day or continually comes and goes.
- There are any signs of swelling in the face or gums.
- The tooth seems to be damaged, discolored, or abscessed.
- Your child is unable to eat, chew, or sleep due to the pain.
- Home remedies and pain medication are not improving the situation.
Schedule A Family Dental Visit with Dental Town Chicago
Dental Town Chicago has 12 dental offices throughout the Chicago area. We specialize in providing dental care for kids and teenagers at each of our offices. This includes providing regular dental cleanings and exams, as well as, helping with dental emergencies including severe toothaches. For more information about dental treatments, please click below to schedule an appointment.