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Symptom Checker

Toothache in Children

A toothache is pain in a tooth or the surrounding gum. The pain may be constant, come and go, or become worse with chewing, hot foods or cold foods.

Tooth decay, gum inflammation, cracked teeth and dental infections are common causes. Food trapped around the tooth, teeth grinding, sinus pressure and injury can also cause dental pain.

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AAP Guide to Toothache in Children

The AAP guide below explains what you can do while waiting for dental care and which swelling or symptoms need urgent attention.

AAP Symptom CheckerToothache

If the Symptom Checker does not appear here

It is the American Academy of Pediatrics’ own tool and it loads from their site, so a lost connection or a content blocker leaves this space empty. Open it on HealthyChildren.org with the button below, or call your office and a nurse will answer.

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Symptom CheckerToothache New tab

When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • Tooth pain persists or keeps returning.
  • Your child develops facial or gum swelling.
  • Fever, pus or a bad taste comes with the tooth pain.
  • Pain makes it difficult for your child to eat, drink or open the mouth.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Swelling of the face or neck affects breathing or swallowing.
  • The infection is spreading rapidly and your child appears very ill.
  • You think your child has a life-threatening emergency.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

More on ears, nose, mouth and teeth

See the rest of this group and all 164 symptoms