As winter is upon us, many of us feel the anxiety of seasonal illness creeping in. While the holidays are meant to be a joyous time spent with loved ones, they can also mean stuffy noses, sore throats, and tooth pain as we try to figure out: Is it a cold, or could it be a cavity hiding underneath all that seasonal cheer? Between Christmas cookies, hot cocoa, and holiday parties, it’s no surprise that our teeth and immune systems get a real workout this time of year.
But don’t let concerns about mystery aches and pains put a damper on your holiday celebrations just yet. This post will help provide some key signs and symptoms to watch out for so you know whether to bundle up in bed with a hot water bottle or book an appointment with our Newport Beach pediatric dentists. Review these guiding questions to help sort out seasonal sicknesses from dental dilemmas, and feel free to enjoy the holidays without mystery ailments getting your little one down!
Does Your Child Have Sinus Pressure?
While it might seem strange, it’s possible to have tooth pain as a side effect of a cold.
The maxillary sinus, located near the roots of our upper teeth, can become inflamed during a cold and press down on the teeth, causing toothaches. It’s important to note that this pain can be confused with cavities. In order to accurately diagnose and treat the cause of tooth pain during a cold, it’s best to visit a Newport Beach pediatric dentist who can determine whether it’s sinus-related or a cavity. In the meantime, try using over-the-counter pain medication and nasal decongestants to alleviate the sinus pressure and tooth pain.
Does Your Child Have Dry Mouth?
Nasal congestion is an unfortunate consequence of catching a cold. This irritating condition compels the sufferer to breathe through their mouth more frequently, leading to moisture depletion in the teeth, gums, and lips. Furthermore, persistent coughing exacerbates the situation. Given that saliva acts as a formidable defense against tooth decay, the dryness in your mouth when sick makes your teeth susceptible to plaque buildup and cavities.
To combat this issue, it is paramount to stay hydrated by consuming copious amounts of water when under the weather. This will help alleviate dry mouth and stimulate saliva production. Additionally, it is crucial to bear in mind that decongestants and over-the-counter pain medications may also induce dry mouth. In light of this, it is advisable to always chase these medications with a refreshing glass of water.
Is Your Child Still Experiencing Tooth Pain After the Cold?
If your little one’s cold symptoms have vanished, but their tooth pain persists, it is imperative to promptly schedule an appointment with one of our Newport Beach, CA, dentists for a thorough examination. The persistence of tooth pain may indicate a possible cavity or tooth abscess, necessitating immediate treatment to salvage the affected tooth. Timely intervention is crucial to appropriately address tooth decay and ensure optimal dental health.
Proven Cavity Prevention & Treatment in Newport Beach, CA
Everyone deserves a happy, healthy life full of smiles, which is why Hersch Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics offers cavity prevention and treatment in Newport Beach, CA. With the most comprehensive dental care available today and the expertise and compassion of our team, you can be sure that your child’s smile will be treated with professionalism and respect. Contact us to make an appointment today to take control of your kid’s oral health and smile with pride, knowing you’ve made a great decision for their future!