When your child complains of a toothache, it can be a stressful and confusing moment as a parent. Tooth pain may seem minor at first, but it’s often a sign that something more serious is happening below the surface. At Cedar Brook Pediatric Dentistry in Southborough, MA, we’re here to help guide you through exactly what to do if your child is experiencing a toothache—so you can respond with calm, confidence, and care.
Whether it’s a dull ache or sharp, sudden pain, acting quickly and knowing your options can make all the difference in getting your child relief and protecting their smile.
The first thing to do is ask your child to describe the pain. Is it a constant dull ache? Does it hurt when they bite or chew? Can they point to the exact tooth that’s hurting?
While your child may not always be able to describe the sensation precisely, any information you can gather helps. Look for swelling, redness, or any visible signs of damage to the tooth or surrounding gum tissue.
Even if your child seems okay otherwise, dental pain should never be ignored. Parents looking for a top pediatric dentist near Southborough can count on our experienced team to evaluate the issue quickly and gently.
Have your child rinse their mouth with warm salt water to soothe inflammation and remove any food particles. You can also gently floss around the sore tooth to ensure nothing is stuck between their teeth or gums.
Check for:
If you see signs of infection or damage—or if the pain persists beyond a few hours—it’s time to call a dental professional.
If there’s swelling on the cheek or jaw, applying a cold compress can provide some relief. Wrap a cold pack in a towel and hold it against the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time. This can help reduce inflammation and ease your child’s discomfort until they can be seen by a dentist.
While over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be used to manage pain temporarily (based on age-appropriate dosages), they should never replace a proper dental evaluation.
A toothache may signal a cavity, dental trauma, or even an infection that requires urgent attention. In some cases, it may also be related to teething or a loose baby tooth—but it’s always better to have a professional take a look.
Families in search of an emergency pediatric dentist in Southborough, MA, can turn to Cedar Brook Pediatric Dentistry for prompt, compassionate care. We prioritize dental emergencies and do everything we can to get your child seen as quickly as possible.
Don’t wait for symptoms to get worse. The earlier we catch the problem, the easier and less invasive the solution will likely be.
As a pediatric dentist in Southborough, MA, our goal is to not only treat the problem but also help your child feel safe and supported throughout the process.
Contact our office right away if your child has any of the following:
Our team is trained to provide emergency care for kids and to identify the underlying cause quickly, while also making sure your child feels comfortable every step of the way.
At Cedar Brook Pediatric Dentistry, we’re committed to preventing dental issues before they start. Regular checkups, cleanings, and good home care habits are the best defense against painful surprises.
Tips to help prevent future toothaches include:
We work with families to create personalized care plans that support healthy development and long-term oral wellness.
If your child is experiencing tooth pain, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Cedar Brook Pediatric Dentistry provides specialized care that addresses both the physical and emotional needs of young patients. Whether you’re dealing with a sudden dental emergency or simply want a team you can trust, we’re proud to be a top choice for families in the Southborough area.
Call us today to schedule an appointment and get your child back to feeling—and smiling—their best.
