Toothache in children: expert recommends six home remedies for quick pain relief

Tooth pain can be debilitating and extremely uncomfortable and too unbearable for children. Here, an expert has recommended some home remedies to get pain relief naturally.

Toothache in children can be painful for both the child and the parents. While it is crucial to consult a dentist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan, there are several home remedies that can provide temporary relief from the discomfort. In an exclusive conversation with India.com, Dr. Puja Sabherwal, consultant pediatric dentistry, Madhukar Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Malviya Nagar Delhi, explains some natural ways to relieve pain in children.
Here is a comprehensive guide on how to get rid of toothache in children using simple but effective methods.

ORAL HYGIENE: 7 HOME REMEDIES FOR TOOOTACHE IN CHILDREN

1. Saltwater rinses: Gargling with warm salt water is a proven remedy for toothache. It helps reduce inflammation and acts as a natural disinfectant, promoting healing of the affected area. Encourage your child to swish a solution of warm water and a teaspoon of salt for about 30 seconds before spitting it out. This can be done several times a day.
2. Cold compress: A cold compress is an excellent way to numb the pain and reduce the swelling associated with a toothache. Apply a cold compress or ice pack, wrapped in a thin cloth, to the outside of the child’s cheek, near the affected tooth. Limit application to 15-minute intervals to prevent frostbite and take breaks between sessions.
3. Clove or clove oil: Cloves have natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, making them a valuable remedy for toothaches. You can use clove oil by applying a small amount to a cotton ball and placing it on the painful tooth. Alternatively, chewing a whole clove or placing a piece of clove near the affected area may provide relief, only if your child is not allergic to cloves.
4. Hydration and healthy nutrition: Encourage your child to stay hydrated as this supports overall oral health. Drinking water helps flush bacteria and debris from the mouth. In addition, maintaining a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals contributes to strong teeth and gums. Limit sugary snacks and drinks to avoid further irritation.
5. Cleaning and home hygiene: Typically, children brush only once a day, which is well below the guideline of twice to three times a day. Brushing in circular motions (20-30 strokes) over the affected area with an extra soft brush and age-specific toothpaste can help get pain relief by reducing inflammatory mediators and external food and bacteria from the area.
6. Soft, easy-to-chew diet: If your child complains of toothache, you can give him soft foods such as yogurt, khichdi, curd rice and oats. Extreme temperatures can be avoided, along with hard, crunchy foods such as seeds, nuts or popcorn. Furthermore, avoid sugary foods and drinks.

While these home remedies may provide temporary relief, it is essential to schedule a dental appointment for a thorough examination and appropriate treatment. Tooth pain in children can be caused by a variety of problems, including cavities, gum problems or erupting teeth. A dentist can identify the cause and recommend a customized plan to address the underlying problem.

These home remedies can be effective in relieving dental pain in children and provide a natural and accessible way to provide comfort. However, they are not a substitute for professional dental care. If the pain persists or worsens, consulting a dentist immediately is crucial to ensure the child’s oral health and well-being.