Common Reasons for Toothaches in Children

The most common complaint we hear from our patients is of a toothache. Many parents instinctively assume that a toothache means their child has tooth decay or a dental cavity. However, there are a number of reasons why your child may be experiencing tooth pain, most of which are avoidable.

Causes of Childhood Toothaches

Here at Piedmont Pediatric Dentistry, we know that it’s important that our patients and their parents are educated about the possible dental problems that can occur and how to avoid and treat these issues. Below are a few common causes of childhood toothaches and how you can help your children to avoid them:

• Tooth Decay – Dental decay is the most common cause of childhood toothaches. Whether it results in a small dental cavity or a more severe form of decay, once the enamel has been penetrated, pain will begin to present.
• Tooth Infection – If tooth decay is allowed to progress, it may eventually reach the center of the tooth, causing an infection. Once a tooth becomes infected, it will cause inflammation and extreme pain for your child.
• Gum Disease – If left untreated for long enough, gum disease can begin to cause tooth pain as well as gum pain. This is due to the inflammation of the gum tissue and the bone deterioration in the jaw and teeth.
• Bruxism – Lastly, if your child is experiencing bruxism, he or she may begin to feel pain in the teeth. Bruxism is the grinding and clenching of the teeth during sleep, usually due to stress or certain sleep disorders. Wearing a night guard to bed can help manage the symptoms of bruxism.

The best way for you to make sure your child has healthy teeth is by helping him or her maintain good oral hygiene habits. This should include brushing at least twice a day for two minutes at a time, flossing every day, and bringing your child in for a dental checkup and an exam every six months.

If your child is experiencing tooth pain, please don’t hesitate to contact Piedmont Pediatric Dentistry to make an appointment. Our child’s dental office is located here in Greensboro, North Carolina.