What Causes Toothaches in Children?

Toothaches often occur when the pulp in the inner tooth becomes infected or inflamed. The pulp is the part of the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. An injury to the tooth can lead to pain. Millions of children suffer from cavities, which are common causes of toothache. They are often a result of poor oral hygiene. Without treatment, the toothaches become worse, causing extreme discomfort. 

New Tooth Eruption

Children sometimes experience toothaches when a new tooth erupts. When the tooth emerges above the gumline, the child can experience discomfort, fever, and other symptoms. Chewing can become painful, and the gum tissue is more sensitive than usual to extreme temperatures. The toothache can happen with baby teeth as well as adult teeth, but the pain usually resolves when the tooth emerges. 

Loose Baby Teeth

Having a loose baby tooth can be painful. While it is not very common, a toothache caused by instability is not unusual. As the permanent tooth emerges, it can push the baby tooth and the gum, causing pain. If a child’s permanent tooth is loose, the condition may be more severe as it can signify damage or disease. The tooth may be loose due to impact or injury and could also be a sign of an infection.  

Damaged Tooth
 

Dental pain could be caused by trauma. Children who play sports or those who are physically active are prone to tripping or bumping the face. Broken and chipped teeth are a common result of trauma, and the injuries often require emergency treatment. The injuries can be hard to detect without dental equipment. Wearing a mouthguard can help protect against these types of impact injuries. 

Eating Unhealthy Food

A poor diet can lead to tooth pain and other dental problems. Sugary foods, hard food, and foods high in acid can cause toothaches, especially among children prone to tooth sensitivity. The pain can be a symptom of an underlying dental condition such as decay, jaw disorder, or gum disease. If the problem persists, the child will need a dental exam to determine the underlying cause. As a parent, you must be careful about the diet your child is exposed to. 

Aggressive Brushing

Brushing the teeth aggressively can erode the protective tooth enamel over time. It can make the teeth susceptible to pain, cavities, and increased sensitivity. The child may also bruise their gums during brushing, causing pain. Make sure your child uses a soft-bristled toothbrush every time. Always purchase toothbrushes and other dental products designed for children. It is also helpful to consult the dentist about your child’s dental care. 

Tooth decay can be a cause of tooth decay. The condition may not cause pain in the early stages, but over time it becomes painful. If left untreated, cavities cause pain and long-term sensitivity. Bruxism or teeth grinding and clenching can also cause toothache. 

Other causes of toothache and dental pain are gum disease and tooth abscesses. There are home remedies that can relieve tooth pain, but you need to take your child to the dentist as soon as possible.

For more on what causes toothaches in children, visit The Center for Cosmetic and Family Dentistry at our Destin, Panama City Beach, or Navarre, Florida offices. Call 850-810-0300, 850-810-0600, or 850-409-6400 to schedule an appointment today.