Your Child Has a Toothache—Is It an Emergency?

A sudden toothache can throw the whole day off, especially for your child. One minute they're laughing at snack time, and the next they're holding their cheek with tears in their eyes. You check for obvious signs, but you're not sure what's going on. Do you call the dentist right away? Or wait and see if it passes? Knowing what to watch for can help you feel more confident in deciding when to act and when it might be time to call an emergency pediatric dentist.

What Causes Toothaches in Kids?

Toothaches can have a range of causes, and not all require immediate care. Some are temporary or mild, while others require fast attention from a dental professional

Cavities and Tooth Decay

Cavities are one of the most common causes of tooth pain in children. They start out small, but once they reach the tooth's inner layers, they can cause soreness or sharp pain. If your child's toothache gets worse while eating or drinking something cold or sweet, it could point to decay.

A mild cavity doesn't always feel urgent, but once there's swelling, fever, or trouble sleeping, it's time to call.

Gum Irritation or Food Stuck Between Teeth

Sometimes it's not the tooth at all. A popcorn kernel or a bit of food caught between the teeth or under the gums can cause noticeable discomfort. Gently flossing the area and rinsing with warm water can help.

If the pain continues after doing this, or if you see redness and puffiness around the area, your child may need a closer look from their dentist.

New Teeth Coming In

Teething can cause pain and fussiness for little ones. For older kids, molars pushing through the gums, especially the first or second set of adult molars, can lead to discomfort that feels like a toothache.

In most cases, this doesn't count as a dental emergency. But if there's swelling, pus, or your child can't chew on one side, there could be an issue with how the tooth is coming in.

Dental Infections or Abscesses

Pain accompanied by swelling, a bump near the gums, or a bad taste in the mouth may be a sign of an infection. This is considered an emergency and requires immediate care.

Infections in baby teeth can affect surrounding teeth and even spread if left too long. If your child has a fever, facial swelling, and tooth pain, call your emergency pediatric dentist as soon as possible.

What Counts as a True Dental Emergency?

Knowing what qualifies as an emergency, especially when your kiddo is uncomfortable, can be hard. Here's a quick checklist to help you decide whether to call the dentist right away:

• Severe or throbbing pain that won’t go away

• Swelling in the face or gums

• Fever with tooth pain

• A knocked-out or broken tooth

• A visible bump or abscess on the gums

• Bleeding that doesn’t stop

If any of these are happening, don't wait. Prompt care can prevent more serious issues.

For mild soreness without swelling or fever, you may be able to manage at home with saltwater rinses, gentle brushing, or over-the-counter children's pain relievers. If you're unsure, calling your dentist for guidance is always okay.

Looking for a Reliable Emergency Pediatric Dentist?

Dental pain is no fun, especially for kids who might not have the words to explain exactly how it feels. Whether your child has a mild ache or a dental emergency, knowing what to do can help you stay calm and act quickly.

At HumbleBees Pediatric Dentistry, we're here to support you and your child through toothaches, bumps, and anything else that might come up. We offer same-day emergency appointments when possible, and we always take time to make our littlest patients feel safe and heard. Contact us today if your child needs emergency dental care!