Child's toothache

What it can mean

Toothache in children is most often decay — which progresses faster in baby teeth than adult teeth because the enamel is thinner — or a tooth that's erupting. Signs include complaining of pain when eating or at night, refusing food, holding the cheek, a swollen gum, or a dark spot on a tooth. Baby teeth matter: they hold space for the adult teeth and an infection can affect the developing tooth beneath.

Our approach with children is unhurried and honest: we explain everything in words they understand, never force anything, and keep the first visit short and positive. Under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule, eligible children get treatment with nothing to pay.

How we can help

• Priority appointments for children in pain
• Gentle fillings, and pulp treatment or extraction for infected baby teeth
• Fissure seals, fluoride and diet advice to prevent the next one