6 Tips to Help with Your Child's Toothache

Toothaches can be mild or severe due to decay, infection, or broken teeth. The pain can last for one or two days and is usually around your jaws or teeth, which may be a cause for concern for adults and children. When your child has a toothache, it can make them irritable and miserable. Your parental instincts kick in, and you start looking for a solution to ease the pain. So, what can you do when your child complains of a toothache? Here are a few tips to help you out.

Saltwater Rinse

Saltwater rinses are an age-old remedy. They help reduce oral swelling due to inflammation. They will also loosen debris lodged between the teeth or in cavities. The rinse will relieve sore throats due to infection, boosting overall healing.
To make a saltwater rinse, use warm water and dissolve a teaspoon of salt. Allow your child to swish the solution in their mouth for about 30 seconds. They can spit it out and repeat the process once more. It ensures the solution reaches every part of the mouth.

Ice Pack or Cold Compress

Ice packs are ideal in situations of an injury or swollen gums. The treatment constricts the blood vessels in the affected area, slowing blood flow. It also reduces inflammation and pain for a few minutes at a time. Ask your child to hold the cold compress or icepack for about 20 minutes. You can repeat the application every few hours.

Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse

The hydrogen peroxide solution is an effective antibacterial wash that can clear bacteria that causes infection. It reduces plaque and helps heal bleeding gums. It is especially effective if an infection is the cause of toothache.

You can make the solution by mixing three percent hydrogen peroxide and water in equal parts. Like the saltwater rinse, the child can swish this solution in their mouth for 30 seconds. However, in this case, rinse out their mouth several times with plain water—swallowing hydrogen peroxide is dangerous.

Peppermint Tea Bags

Peppermint has a soothing effect on sensitive gums. It also helps numb pain because of its soothing effect. Allow the tea bag to cool before using it. You can use it when it is slightly warm or cool it in the freezer for a few minutes.

Over-the-counter Medication

Sometimes, the pain may continue and force you to get over-the-counter medication. These medicines are counter-inflammatory and help dull the ache. They will help keep your child comfortable and sleep if the pain occurs at night. Once you get to this stage of using a medication, it is good to book a dental appointment.

For more information, visit Eagle Gate Dental at our Salt Lake City, Utah office. Call (801) 781-5300 to schedule an appointment today.