Toothaches in Kids: What’s Causing Them?
Toothaches can be painful for anyone, but they can be even worse for children. If your child is experiencing tooth pain, it can be difficult to determine the cause. The first step is to visit a pediatric dentist, but it's also helpful to know the possible causes of toothaches in children.
The most common causes of toothaches in children are:
Tooth decay: Early-stage tooth decay may not cause much pain, but if left untreated, it can worsen and reach the tooth's nerve, causing severe pain. It's important to treat cavities as soon as possible.
Trauma: Children are prone to falls and injuries, which can damage their teeth or jaw and cause tooth pain. Wearing a mouthguard during sports and physical activities can help prevent oral injuries.
Dental abscess: When an untreated tooth infection causes a pus-filled pimple on the gums, it can create pressure and severe pain in the tooth and gums. A fever may also be present.
Gum disease: Although rare in children, gum disease can occur and cause swollen, red, and bleeding gums, bad breath, and receding gums.
Teeth grinding: Bruxism, or teeth grinding and clenching, is common in children and can cause tooth sensitivity and weakness. It may occur throughout the day or during sleep.
Cracked or chipped teeth: Tooth pain and sensitivity when eating or drinking hot or cold items may be caused by cracks or chips in the teeth. This damage can be due to injury, misaligned bite, or chewing on hard objects.
Vigorous brushing: Brushing too hard or using a stiff toothbrush can cause tooth and gum pain, as well as enamel breakdown and increased sensitivity.
If your child is experiencing tooth pain, it's important to schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist, such as Dr. Kishore Dighe, at Little Krishna Children’s Dental Clinic in Mumbai, who can diagnose the cause of the discomfort and provide treatment. Let's work together to help your child achieve better oral health!