When your child experiences a toothache, it can be distressing for both of you. At Paediatric Dental Home, we recommend several steps to manage your child's discomfort while determining if professional treatment is needed at one of our Hoppers Crossing or Geelong dental clinics.
Tips for Handling Toothaches
First, gently rinse your child's mouth with warm salt water to remove any food particles trapped between teeth. Carefully remove any visible debris that might be causing irritation using dental floss. For pain relief, you can administer children's paracetamol or ibuprofen according to the recommended dosage for your child's age and weight. Apply a cold compress to the outside of your child's cheek for about 20 minutes to reduce any swelling.
It's important to contact our practice promptly if the pain persists for more than 24 hours, if your child has facial swelling, a fever, or seems particularly distressed. These symptoms might indicate an infection that requires immediate attention.
Contact Paediatric Dental Home
At Paediatric Dental Home, our specialist paediatric dentists have extensive training in managing children's dental emergencies. We offer priority appointments for children in pain and can provide appropriate treatment options, including gentle examination techniques for anxious children.
For severe cases or children who experience extreme dental anxiety, we can provide treatment using laughing gas (nitrous oxide) or under general anaesthetic, if necessary. Our team is experienced in helping children with toothaches feel comfortable and reassured throughout their treatment.
Remember that regular check-ups every six months at our Hoppers Crossing or Geelong locations can help prevent many causes of toothache through early detection and preventive care.