Toothache? Here's What You Need to Do
Posted on: 4 January 2022
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A toothache can drive you crazy. It's also a sign that something is seriously wrong inside your mouth. However, there is no need to panic if you experience this kind of pain. Follow these tips to deal with your toothache and protect your dental health.
1. Contact a Dentist
A toothache is a sign that you are suffering from a cavity, an infection, or some other kind of dental health problem. You need to see a dentist as soon as possible. If you have swelling, pus, or a fever in addition to your toothache, then you need to see an emergency dentist right away. For a regular toothache, it is still important to schedule an appointment as soon as you can, as the underlying cause is likely to get worse without treatment.
2. Use the Right Pain Relief
You can use either ibuprofen or paracetamol to get relief from toothache. Be sure to take no more than the recommended dosage of either one. You can use both medications if one alone does not resolve your pain.
Do not take aspirin, as it reduces the ability of the blood to clot and can therefore increase the risk that you will bleed excessively when you manage to get dental treatment. If basic pain medications are not suitable for you, ask your pharmacist to suggest some other options.
3. Use a Salt Water Rinse
When you have a toothache, it is important to prevent an infection from starting or spreading in your mouth. You can make an antibacterial salt water rinse by adding a little table salt to room temperature water. Swish this mixture around your mouth to kill bacteria and reduce the risk of infection.
4. Use a Cold Compress
Cold is a natural pain killer. You can make a cold compress for your toothache by wrapping a packet of frozen vegetables in a clean towel and gently pressing it against your cheek on the side where the pain is. Take breaks every so often so that the skin does not start to experience cold burn.
5. Use Pain Relief Gel
Pharmacies sell gel that is designed to treat oral pain. This kind of gel contains a local anesthetic that can be highly effective against toothache. Rub it on the gums around the sore tooth to get relief. Follow the instructions on the packaging with care to ensure you do not exceed a safe dose.