Question 1

What causes toothache in children?

Accepted Answer

Toothache is one of the most common dental concerns in children. It may be caused by: 
​
Tooth decay (the most common cause) 
Chalky teeth (enamel hypomineralisation) 
Tooth fractures 
Dental trauma 
​
Occasionally, pain may be due to food trapped between teeth, especially in younger children. Gently cleaning the area with a soft toothbrush or using dental floss may help. If discomfort persists, we recommend scheduling an appointment for a thorough assessment.

Question 2

When should I take my child to the hospital?

Accepted Answer

If your child has any of the following, please go directly to your nearest hospital emergency department:

Throbbing pain that is not eased by paracetamol or ibuprofen
Significant facial swelling
A high fever
General unwellness, drowsiness, or difficulty swallowing

These signs may indicate a spreading dental infection that requires immediate medical attention. After-hours emergencies can be managed through Starship Hospital or Middlemore Hospital.

Question 3

My child's tooth has changed colour after an accident. Is it serious?

Accepted Answer

A change in colour after a dental injury is usually nothing to be alarmed about, but it should be monitored. The most common changes you may notice are:

Grey or dark: often caused by a small amount of bleeding inside the tooth. In many cases, the colour improves on its own over several months.

Cloudy or yellow: This often means the nerve inside the tooth has naturally closed off. Usually, no treatment is needed unless other symptoms develop.

Pink: A pink tooth may indicate the tooth is breaking down from the inside. This is less common and should be checked promptly.

Question 4

When should I see the dentist about a discoloured tooth?

Accepted Answer

If the tooth has changed colour but causes no pain or swelling, it can usually be left in place and monitored at regular check-ups. Bring your child in for an assessment if you notice:

Pain or sensitivity around the affected tooth
Swelling, redness, or a small lump on the gum above the tooth
Any change to your child's normal eating or sleeping

These signs may indicate an abscess, and early treatment helps protect the developing adult tooth underneath.

Question 5

What should I do at home until we can be seen?

Accepted Answer

Try to keep your child calm and comfortable. Offer soft food, give pain relief at the dose recommended on the packaging for their age and weight, and apply a cold compress to any swelling on the outside of the cheek. Avoid extremes of hot and cold food or drink.

If a permanent tooth has been knocked out, find it, hold it by the crown (not the root), rinse it gently with milk or saline if dirty, and either reinsert it into the socket or store it in milk while you contact us. Do this within 30 minutes if possible, as it makes a real difference to whether the tooth can be saved.

Emergency Paediatric Dental Care in Auckland

We prioritise dental emergencies and offer the earliest available appointment

When your child needs emergency dental care

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes toothache in children?

When should I take my child to the hospital?

My child's tooth has changed colour after an accident. Is it serious?

When should I see the dentist about a discoloured tooth?

What should I do at home until we can be seen?

Speak to our team straight away