Whether a once tolerable toothache has suddenly upgraded to severe status or you’ve suffered an accidental blow to the mouth, you can’t always get to the dentist as soon as you’d like. If you’ve already called your provider and are now at home toughing it out until your appointment time, there could be some remedies already available that you didn’t realize. Learn about a few of them below!
Apply a Cold Compress
It’s a safe bet that you’ve got ice in your home, so put it to good use! If you’ve got an ice pack, great; if not, fill a zip-tie bag with ice cubes. Whichever you come up with, wrap a towel around it and gently press it against the side of your face that’s home to the affected tooth.
The extreme cold can both numb the pain and reduce facial swelling. Plus, the shock of the ice can help distract you from the discomfort of your toothache.
Search Your Medicine Cabinet
Another likely source of pain relief you’ve got on hand is over-the-counter medication. Ibuprofen, acetaminophen, aspirin – any of these can provide a temporary respite to the agony of a bad toothache.
However, you must be careful with what you take. Never exceed the recommended dosage no matter how sharp your pain is, and only use pain relievers that your doctor says are specifically safe for you. Also, do not place aspirin directly against your gums or the tooth that hurts.
Warm Saltwater
Got salt in your house? Running water? OK, then you’ve got an age-old recipe for temporarily treating tooth pain.
Fill a glass with warm water, mix in a half teaspoon of salt, and treat it like mouthwash – swish it around your mouth for a while, being careful not to swallow it. This solution can soothe irritated issues, lessen painful inflammation, and loosen food particles that could be contributing to your toothache.
Gently Clean Around the Tooth
Sometimes, food trapped between teeth can contribute to discomfort. Carefully floss around the affected tooth to remove debris, taking care not to snap the floss against your gums.
Continue brushing gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush to keep the area clean. Avoid poking the tooth with sharp objects, which can injure your gums or worsen the problem.
When Should You Call an Emergency Dentist?
Probably right away, if you haven’t already. Home remedies provide temporary relief, not a cure. Severe or persistent tooth pain may indicate deep decay, a cracked tooth, nerve damage, or a dental abscess. Contact an emergency dentist promptly, particularly if your pain interferes with sleeping or daily activities.
Home remedies are helpful, but prompt, professional attention can relieve discomfort, address the underlying problem, and help protect your long-term oral health.
About the Author
Dr. Jason Hong’s resume includes a dental degree from the New York University College of Dentistry, more than 300 hours of completed continuing education, fellowship status at the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, a Master’s Certification in progressive orthodontics, and certification as an Invisalign provider. If you’re in Clarendon Hills and have suffered a dental emergency, Dr. Hong and his team are available early mornings and evenings to help you. Call (630) 789-1555 for immediate assistance or contact us via our website.