When your little one complains about pain in a tooth, or sensitivity when he or she eats and drinks, this could mean the presence of a cavity. Treatment could stop discomfort, and also prevent the onset of serious oral health problems. In today’s blog, your Round Rock, TX, pediatric dentist talks about treatments for a toothache.

Children and Aching Teeth

Does your child often talk about an aching tooth, or discomfort when he or she eats? While temporary aches could be caused by sinus infections, allergies, or even changes in elevation and air pressure, persistent pain could be a sign of a cavity. Tooth decay forms when the outer enamel is no longer able to protect the inner tissues, enabling bacteria to reach these tissues and cause cavities to form. This could happen due to poor oral hygiene habits, which allows plaque to form and weaken enamel, or as a result of an injury or persistent teeth grinding. When your little one complains about a toothache, let us know right away!

Dental Fillings and Crowns

If we find the presence of a cavity, we will offer a restoration. For many cases, we use a filling made from composite resin, a metal-free material that we can shade to blend with the tooth. Placing the filling takes only one visit. For more severe cases, we could discuss the placement of a zirconia or stainless-steel dental crowns, which covers the entire visible portion of a tooth. If the decay is severe and an infection has started, we could use a pulpotomy to remove the infected tissues before capping the tooth with a dental crown. When possible, we want to offer restorations that look natural and blend with the tooth.

Preventive Actions

You could also take measures to help your child avoid the onset of cavities and infections, limiting their need for a restoration. At home, be sure they brush and floss daily, and try to limit their consumption of sugary foods and drinks. Be sure to visit our office every six months for a checkup and cleaning, so we can identify cavities in the earliest stages, and also remove all plaque and tartar buildup to limit the risk of them. We can also discuss preventive treatments like fluoride gel and dental sealants to strengthen the teeth and lower the chances of tooth decay.

If you have any questions about how we treat a toothache, then contact our team today.

Talk to Your Round Rock, TX, Pediatric Dentist Today

Our team wants to help kids avoid pain with preventive care and restorations. If you would like to learn more about treating aches in your child’s smile, then contact your Round Rock, TX, pediatric dentist, Dr. Thames, by calling 512-733-5311.