When your child is too young to openly tell you they have dental pain, it's up to you to watch for the signs they're trying to give you. From drooling to only eating certain foods, your little one may be telling you that they have problems with their teeth. The only thing you have to do is pay attention.

Here are signs your young one is telling you they have dental pain. Dentists even able to work on baby smiles, so it's wise to get your young one into the dentist's office as soon as you notice any of the following signs of needing care.

Your little one is complaining of earaches or sinus pain

Sometimes dental pain has more to do with the sinuses than it does just the teeth. If your little one is complaining of their ears hurting or pain behind their eyes or near their nose, they may have dental issues that are causing other upper respiratory issues. Have your child go to their doctor to rule out an ear or upper respiratory infection, then take them to the dentist for care if needed.

Your little one is drooling or chewing on things

Is your little one drool a lot lately or seems to be chewing on things all the time? These are both classic signs of teething and dental pain and may be one of the only signs of pain your little one gives you. Take a look inside your young one's mouth and look for signs of gum swelling, teeth protrusion, and redness of the gums. A quick trip to the dentist will reveal what is causing your little one to be drooling or chewing on things all the time.

Your little one is only eating soft foods

Does your little one suddenly not want to eat any hard foods like crunchy cereals or crunchy chips? Do they prefer softer foods that are more room temperature, like pudding, cooled oatmeal, or warm soups? If your child is only into soft foods lately or they appear adverse to anything too hot or too cold, it could be caused by dental pain they aren't able to express.

Immediately seek dental care if your child is favoring one side of their mouth or if they refuse to eat or drink anything. Once you take your child to the dentist, you'll be able to identify and repair what is wrong with their teeth and give them the care they need. Contact a dentist for more information.