A child’s toothache can come out of nowhere—and when it does, it often causes panic, worry, and a scramble to find quick relief. At Cuadra Pediatric Dentistry in Tiffin, OH, we understand how stressful dental pain can be for both kids and parents. Whether it’s a dull ache or sharp, throbbing pain, a toothache is your child’s way of signaling that something needs attention.
So, what should you do if your child has a toothache? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to take at home, when to call a pediatric dentist, and how to prevent future problems—all from a practice trusted by families looking for kid dentistry near me in Tiffin and beyond.
Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
When your child tells you their tooth hurts, try to remain calm. Children take emotional cues from their parents—so a steady response goes a long way in keeping your child calm too.
Ask your child a few questions:
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Is the pain constant or does it come and go?
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Does it hurt more when chewing or drinking something cold?
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Can they show you which tooth hurts?
Look inside their mouth for obvious signs of swelling, discoloration, or a cracked tooth. Sometimes, food stuck between teeth or minor irritation can cause temporary discomfort, while other times it may point to infection, decay, or trauma.
Step 2: Gently Clean and Rinse
Help your child gently brush their teeth and rinse their mouth with warm salt water. This can clean the area and soothe irritated gums. If food is stuck, carefully use floss around the sore tooth—but avoid poking or prodding if it’s too sensitive.
A cold compress on the outside of the cheek can reduce swelling and numb the area for short-term relief.
Step 3: Manage Discomfort (But Don’t Delay a Visit)
You may consider offering an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, but be sure to follow dosing instructions appropriate for your child’s age and weight. Never apply aspirin directly to the gums or teeth.
While these options may reduce discomfort temporarily, they’re not a substitute for a professional dental exam.
If you’re searching for a pediatric emergency dentist in Tiffin OH, Cuadra Pediatric Dentistry offers prompt, compassionate care designed specifically for children.
Step 4: Call the Dentist
It’s important to schedule an appointment right away—especially if the pain lasts more than a few hours or is severe. A toothache could be caused by:
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A cavity
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A cracked or broken tooth
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Gum infection
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Tooth eruption
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Abscess or deep infection
Delaying treatment can result in more serious problems, including the need for extractions or advanced procedures. Families in search of a pediatric dentist in Tiffin Ohio or a dentist for baby near me in Tiffin can rest easy knowing our office prioritizes urgent visits and treats every child with gentle, individualized care.
When It’s an Emergency
If your child has swelling of the face, a fever along with tooth pain, uncontrolled bleeding, or signs of trauma from an accident or fall, treat it as a dental emergency. Contact our office immediately.
We regularly see patients from neighboring communities, including those looking for a dentist for kids in Fostoria OH, and provide same-day appointments when needed.
Toothache Prevention Tips
Preventing dental pain starts with good daily habits and regular dental checkups:
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Brush with fluoride toothpaste twice a day
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Floss once daily
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Avoid sugary snacks and drinks
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Wear a mouthguard for sports
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See the dentist every six months
For little ones just starting their dental journey, it’s important to choose a provider who specializes in pediatric care. If you’re new to the area or searching online for kid dentistry near me in Tiffin, Cuadra Pediatric Dentistry is here to provide friendly, expert care that grows with your child.
Final Thoughts
Toothaches in children are more than just a nuisance—they’re a signal that something needs attention. Don’t wait and hope the pain goes away. With prompt care and a trusted pediatric team, your child can feel better fast and avoid more serious issues down the road.
At Cuadra Pediatric Dentistry, we’re proud to be the go-to choice for families seeking gentle and effective dental care in Tiffin, Fostoria, and surrounding communities. If your child is in pain or you’re concerned about their oral health, give us a call today.