Red flags & when to go in person for Dental Pain - Triage

Audience: pediatric

Dental pain in children can be caused by many issues, including cavities, infections, or injuries. Telemedicine can help assess mild to moderate dental pain and guide parents on home care or the need for further evaluation. However, some signs require immediate in-person dental or medical care to prevent complications. This article explains when telemedicine is suitable and highlights red flags that mean your child should see a healthcare provider in person. It also offers practical tips for preparing for a tele-visit and what to expect afterward. Remember, telemedicine is a helpful tool but not a replacement for hands-on dental care when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe or worsening dental pain not relieved by medication — seek urgent dental or medical care.
• Swelling of the face, jaw, or neck causing difficulty breathing or swallowing — go to emergency services immediately.
• High fever with dental pain indicating possible infection — seek prompt in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessment of mild to moderate dental pain symptoms.
• Guidance on home care and pain management.
• Monitoring symptom progression via video or phone.
• Determining urgency and need for in-person care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing dental procedures or treatments.
• Diagnosing complex dental infections requiring imaging or physical exam.
• Managing airway emergencies or severe infections.
• Providing prescriptions that require physical examination confirmation.

Common Causes of Dental Pain in Children

Children often experience dental pain from cavities, gum infections, loose or damaged teeth, or injuries from falls or sports. Sometimes, pain may come from swelling or abscesses that need prompt attention. Understanding the cause helps decide if telemedicine can assist or if an in-person visit is necessary.

When Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine allows healthcare providers to evaluate your child's symptoms through video or phone calls. It is useful for mild pain, advice on pain relief, checking for visible swelling, or monitoring symptoms. Providers can guide parents on home care steps and when to seek urgent care.

Red Flags Indicating Immediate In-Person Care

Certain signs require urgent evaluation by a dentist or doctor in person:

If any of these occur, seek emergency care promptly.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

Before the tele-visit, prepare by:

After the Telemedicine Visit

After the tele-visit, follow the provider's advice carefully. This may include:

Keep track of any changes and communicate with your healthcare provider as needed.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Ensure a quiet, well-lit space for the tele-visit.
• Have a flashlight or phone light to illuminate the child's mouth.
• Prepare a list of symptoms: onset, duration, severity, and triggers.
• Know your child's medication history and allergies.
• Be ready to describe any recent injuries or illnesses.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the provider's instructions for pain relief and care.
• Watch for any worsening symptoms or new red flags.
• Schedule an in-person dental appointment if recommended.
• Contact healthcare immediately if emergency signs develop.
• Keep a symptom diary to report changes if needed.

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose cavities or tooth infections in children?

Telemedicine can help assess symptoms and visible signs via video but cannot replace a physical dental exam or X-rays needed to definitively diagnose cavities or infections.

What should I do if my child has dental pain and a fever?

A fever with dental pain may indicate an infection. You should seek in-person medical or dental care promptly, especially if the fever is high or persistent.

Is it safe to give my child over-the-counter pain medicine before a telemedicine visit?

Yes, you can give age-appropriate doses of over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen before the visit, unless your child has specific allergies or medical conditions. Inform the provider about any medications given.

When should I take my child to the emergency room for dental pain?

Go to the emergency room if your child has severe pain not relieved by medication, swelling affecting breathing or swallowing, drooling, difficulty opening the mouth, or high fever with dental pain.

Can telemedicine help with dental pain caused by injury?

Telemedicine can help assess minor injuries and guide initial care, but serious injuries often require in-person evaluation to check for fractures or other damage.

Sources

1. Dental Caries in Children — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Oral Health Conditions — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Toothache — Mayo Clinic.
4. Dental Emergencies — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical or dental care. If your child has severe symptoms or red flags, seek immediate evaluation by a healthcare professional.