You’ve packed sun cream, snacks, and spare clothes – you’re finally on that much-needed family getaway. But just as you’re settling in, your little one starts to complain that their tooth hurts. A toothache on holiday is every parent’s nightmare, especially when you’re far from home and have no idea what to do next.
*This is a collaborative post
Don’t panic – here’s how to deal with it calmly and get your child smiling again in no time.
Table of Contents
What to Do If Your Child Has a Toothache on Holiday
Stay Calm and Check What’s Going On
First things first – try to take a look inside their mouth. It could be something simple, like a bit of food stuck between their teeth, a small cut, or even irritation from too many sweet treats. Gently brush and floss around the sore area to see if that helps.
If you notice swelling, redness, or a cavity, monitor the area closely. Some toothaches may go away on their own with time, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry – especially if your child is in a lot of pain or unable to sleep because of it.
Soothe the Pain Naturally
If the pain continues, try giving them age-appropriate pain relief (children’s paracetamol or ibuprofen) to take the edge off. A cold compress can also reduce swelling or tenderness.
Encourage your child to rinse with warm salty water (just a small cupful). Rinsing with warm salt water is an easy, safe way to reduce bacteria and soothe irritated gums. If your little one is old enough, staying away from sugary snacks or cold drinks will also prevent the pain from getting worse.
Find Help Locally (If You Need It)
If your child’s toothache doesn’t improve or if they develop a fever or swelling, you may need to visit a dentist while on holiday. Your hotel or travel insurance provider can usually recommend an English-speaking dentist in the local area.
It’s a good idea to store your travel insurance details and emergency contact numbers in your phone or a travel wallet. Some travel insurance policies cover dental care in the case of an emergency, so it’s worth checking before your trip.
Be Prepared Before You Go
The best way to deal with dental emergencies on holiday is to avoid them altogether. Before your next family holiday, book a quick dental check-up for everyone – especially the kids. A dentist can spot early signs of tooth decay or loose fillings that could become a problem mid-trip. A family-friendly dental practice can ensure your children’s teeth are healthy and holiday-ready. They can also give you advice on what to pack in a small “dental first-aid kit” for your travels, including floss sticks, sugar-free pain relief, and a travel toothbrush.
Keep Smiling!
Toothaches can happen to anyone, anywhere – but with a little preparation and a level head, they don’t have to put a dampener on your trip. The key is prevention, fast first aid, and a trusted dentist back home to consult if you need them.
So before you jet off on your next adventure, book those family check-ups, pack a few dental essentials, and rest easy knowing you’re ready for anything – from lost luggage to a wobbly tooth!
