As you might guess, tooth pain often means a cavity or an infection and that goes for children too. When your child is in pain, it can be painful for you also. Read on and find out more.
Call Your Dentist
Your first move should be a call to your child's dentist. However, toothaches can happen at any time, even when the dentist's office is closed. Don't worry, you may have what you need already to help ease your child's discomfort. The below remedies are sure to make things better until you can see your dentist.
Home Remedies for Your Child's Toothache
Over-the-counter Pain Medications – Motrin or Tylenol may be given to children with tooth pain. Be sure to read the instructions so that the dose is age appropriate. If your child is older than 12, you can also use Aleve.
Compresses – A cold compress made of frozen peas may help. Wrap the compress well to avoid the ice coming into direct contact with the skin. Leave the compress in place for only a few minutes at a time, however.
Tea Bags – You can try using either cold or warm (not hot) tea bags directly on the affected area. Flavored teas like peppermint may be more attractive to children.
Vanilla Extract – Dab a bit of vanilla extract onto a cotton ball and hold it against the aching tooth for a few minutes. The vanilla has a pleasant taste, and it also has natural antimicrobial elements.
Salt Rinse – Salt works as a natural disinfectant and it makes an excellent rinse for your child. Have them swish around some salt added to warm water in their mouths for a few minutes and then rinse with plain water. That may help dislodge food particles near the aching tooth which could be contributing to the discomfort.
Orajel Products – The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) took regular Orajel off the market because it contained benzocaine. This drug was found to be extremely harmful to babies and children. However, you can find Orajel products now on the market to soothe tooth pain that does not contain benzocaine.
Some Precautions
Use the above methods with care and with an eye toward your child's level of maturity. You should not place cotton balls or tea bags in the mouth of a child too young to understand not to try and swallow them.
Learn more about home remedies by speaking to your child's dentist.