The school nurse called about a toothache — what parents do next
Your child's school nurse called about tooth pain. Here's how to respond, when to see a dentist same-day, and how to comfort your child until care arrives.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jose, DDS — September 18, 2026
When the school nurse calls
A toothache is disruptive and frightening for a child, and the school nurse did the right thing letting you know. Your job now is to move quickly but calmly.
Pick up your child promptly. A significant toothache interferes with concentration and often causes real distress. Leaving them at school won’t help the situation. Reassure them during the pickup: “We’re going to see the dentist and get this checked out.”
Gather information from the school nurse
Before you leave, ask the nurse:
- When did the pain start?
- Where exactly does it hurt?
- What was your child doing when they noticed it (eating, speaking, playing)?
- Is there visible swelling, redness, or injury to the tooth or gums?
- Has your child mentioned tooth pain recently?
- Has there been any mouth trauma or fall?
Write these details down. They’ll matter when you call your dentist.
Call your dentist immediately
Contact your child’s dentist or a pediatric dentist right away—even if it’s late afternoon. Many dental offices hold same-day appointment slots for toothaches involving children. Explain the situation: your child was sent to the nurse’s office with tooth pain and is now in your care.
If your regular dentist cannot see your child the same day, ask for a referral to an urgent or emergency pediatric dental clinic. Don’t assume the pain will resolve on its own; a toothache in a child often signals a problem that needs professional evaluation.
Comfort your child at home
While waiting for the appointment, keep your child calm and comfortable:
- Cool water: Let them sip it slowly or hold a cool, damp washcloth against the outside of their cheek.
- Soft diet: Avoid hard, crunchy, sticky, or very hot foods that might aggravate the pain.
- Rest: A quiet activity like reading or a movie can distract from discomfort.
- Pain relief: Ask your dentist or pharmacist if an over-the-counter pain reliever is appropriate for your child’s age and weight. Do not guess at a dose.
- Reassurance: Tell your child that the dentist will find out what’s wrong and help them feel better.
What your dentist will assess
During the same-day or urgent visit, the dentist will examine the tooth, take x-rays if needed, and determine the cause—whether it’s a cavity, an impacted food particle, a cracked tooth, or something else. Your child’s dental history and any recent injuries matter, too.
Bring the information you gathered from the school nurse. If you noticed anything yourself when you picked your child up (like a visible break or swelling), mention that as well.
After the visit
Follow your dentist’s care plan carefully. If your child receives treatment, ask about:
- Follow-up appointments
- Any activity restrictions
- Pain management at home
- Signs that would require another urgent visit
If your child has not yet had a regular dental check-up this year, schedule one. A preventive exam can catch problems like cavities before they become painful and urgent.
How MediMouth helps
If you don’t yet have a pediatric dentist in your network, use MediMouth to find one near you. Search by location and filter for pediatric specialists. Read verified patient reviews, check office hours, and confirm your insurance. Many MediMouth offices offer same-day emergency slots for children in pain. Having a trusted pediatric dentist in your plan before an emergency like this one makes the response faster and less stressful.
For more guidance on tooth pain and what to watch for in children, see our guide “Child Toothache: What to Do.”
Frequently asked questions
Should I pick my child up from school right away?
Yes. A toothache affecting your child's ability to focus or causing visible distress warrants a prompt pickup. Call the school to confirm your arrival time, then contact your dentist or pediatric dentist to schedule same-day care.
What can I do to comfort my child's toothache while waiting for the dentist?
Offer cool water to drink, a soft washcloth to hold against the cheek, or allow your child to rest quietly. Ask your dentist or pharmacist if an over-the-counter pain reliever is appropriate for your child's age and weight. Avoid hard or hot foods.
What information should I gather from the school nurse?
Ask when the pain started, where it hurts, what your child was doing when they noticed it, and whether they've mentioned tooth pain before. Did the nurse see any visible damage, swelling, or signs of injury? These details help your dentist prioritize care.