Depending on how old your child is, he or she may be unable to let you know that something is wrong. Or your child may not even realize that the pain that he or she is feeling is a sign that there is something negatively going on with their body. For example, when your child is eating, and he or she feels pain in one of his or her teeth, your child may think nothing of it.

While at the time it could be a small infection or cavity, it could eventually turn into a serious abscess simply because it was left untreated. Luckily, you can keep an eye out for signs of an oral infection in your child. Here are four of them.

Sign #1: Bad Breath or Bad Taste in Your Child's Mouth

As kids are developing their motor skills and learning responsibility, they may not be the best about brushing and flossing their teeth. This is why it is important for you, as a parent, to check their teeth and breath prior to going to bed to ensure that they did perform their oral hygiene routine. During this inspection, you should have no problem being able to tell if something is wrong.

If your child does indeed have an abscess, then you are going to smell something foul. Ask your child if he or she has experienced a bad taste in his or her mouth recently. If your child has, then this will only confirm your suspicions of an abscess.

Sign #2: Swollen Gums

While there are a number of things that can cause swollen gums and even a swollen jaw, the important thing is that inflammation is a sign that something is wrong. Schedule an appointment with your child's dentist immediately.

Sign #3: Lack of Appetite

Kids love to eat, but when they lose their appetite, there is generally a reason for it. So, if your child has had a loss of appetite recently, especially when he or she usually has a pretty healthy one, it could be for a number of different reasons. Before you assume the worst, though, look in your child's mouth for swelling, foul smell, tenderness, pus, as well as a dark tooth. The problem could be a dental infection.

Sign #4: Fever

If your child is in pain and has a fever, especially accompanied by chills, nausea, vomiting, and other symptoms, then things have gotten serious. Your child needs to see a dental professional as soon as possible, possibly even your family doctor as well. If the fever comes down and the pain eradicates, don't assume you are out of the woods; the infection could still be there. A dental checkup is still a good idea for confirmation.

For more information, contact your local general dentist.