How to Treat Your Child’s Toothache at Home (and Make it Fun)

A toothache can be a painful and distressing experience for both children and adults. Toothaches in kids are normally caused by tooth decay, plaque buildup, emerging adult teeth, cavities, broken or chipped teeth, or food debris.

When your child suffers from a toothache, the most important thing to do is to ensure it is treated properly so that it doesn’t lead to severe issues. The best solution for your child’s toothache is to take them to Drs. Kenny and Sarrah Zamora at Bayside Kids Dental, they will be glad to help your child receive the care and treatment they need.

While you wait for your child’s dental appointment, here are some effective home remedies to alleviate their pain and discomfort:

• Make a warm salt water mixture that your child can use as a mouthwash to rinse their mouth.
• Apply garlic paste, aloe vera gel, clove oil, or peppermint oil using a cotton swab on the affected area to soothe the pain and reduce inflammation.
• Place an ice pack or cold compress on your child’s outer cheek near the painful area to help reduce swelling and numb the area.
• Use over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. 

Even though these remedies might alleviate the pain, your child could still be fussy and irritable. Here are some fun ways to keep your child entertained and not focused on the pain:

• Distraction: Play games or engage in fun activities with your child to take their mind off the toothache. This can include playing with toys, watching a movie, or reading a book together.
• Relaxation techniques: Teach your child simple relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or visualization. Encourage them to close their eyes and imagine a peaceful scene or place, such as a beach or a forest.
• Humor: Telling jokes or funny stories can be a great way to lighten the mood and help your child to relax.
• Role-playing: Play “dentist” with your child, using a toothbrush or a toy dental tool. This can help them feel more in control of the situation and can make going to the actual dentist less daunting.

Although these fun activities and home remedies can help alleviate your child’s toothache, it is important to seek proper dental care and follow the advice of Drs. Kenny and Sarrah Zamora at Bayside Kids Dental to ensure your child’s toothache is treated properly.

Disclaimer: The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.