Toothache is a clear signal that something is wrong, and most adults will be all too aware that a tooth is causing them pain. However, it is not always as easy for very young children to communicate their pain and to be able to clearly indicate where the pain is located. In fact, it is possible for kids to experience various levels of dental pain without their parents or caregivers realizing.
Baby Teeth Are Well Worth Looking After
A number of parents might not necessarily be too concerned about their kid’s baby teeth but these teeth are every bit as important as adult teeth. If you think your child might be in pain then it is important to consult a good pediatric dentist, for example, Dr. Marina Krepkh at the Kids Dentistry Center. But what are the signs that your child might be feeling discomfort or pain in one or more teeth?
Hopefully They Will Tell You They Are In Pain
Verbal communication is definitely the easiest way to learn your kid has a toothache. If they say they are experiencing pain whenever they bite or chew, or perhaps when they eat something hot or cold or even during brushing then contact Dr. Krepkh. A dental examination is the best way to get a proper diagnosis and will quickly be able to determine the cause of the pain. Dr. Krepkh will then be able to recommend the most suitable treatment for that tooth.
Watch Out for Signs
Not every child will tell you or be able to say they are in pain so it is worth watching out for signs that could indicate a dental problem. For example, when you clean their teeth just take a quick look to see if you can spot any black, white or brown spots on their teeth which could indicate a cavity. Keep an eye out for any teeth that look as if they are chipped or broken down and which could be painful. Their gums can also provide you with visual clues as any that are red or swollen could indicate an infection.
Changes in Their Behavior
Watching your child eat can provide a number of clues as to whether they can eat comfortably. Do they chew on both sides of their mouth or do they avoid one side? Do they avoid particular foods they used to eat, perhaps because they are too hard to eat comfortably? Kids with a toothache may be more irritable or miserable than normal, and quite understandably as a toothache is not pleasant. You know your kid better than anyone and will probably notice before anyone else that they feel out of sorts.
There are lots of different signs that could indicate a toothache or perhaps some other type of dental problem and it is always worth getting them investigated by a pediatric dentist at the Kids Dentistry Center. Ideally, make sure your child sees one of our dentists at regular intervals so any problems can be picked up before they cause pain or other unpleasant symptoms.