A toothache can range from a mild annoyance to intense, throbbing pain that makes it difficult to eat, sleep, or concentrate. If you’re experiencing severe or persistent pain, it’s important not to ignore it.
Toothaches can have several causes, including tooth decay, a cracked or damaged tooth, gum problems, or an infection. A dental infection may also cause symptoms such as swelling, sensitivity to hot or cold, a bad taste in your mouth, or a fever.
So, what to do if you have a toothache? If the pain is severe, your best first step is to contact a dentist for an appointment. While you’re waiting to be seen, a few simple home remedies may help make you more comfortable.
Rinse with Warm Salt Water
Salt water is one of the easiest remedies to try when your mouth is hurting. Mix a small amount of salt into a cup of warm water and gently swish it around your mouth before spitting it out.
A saltwater rinse can help clean the area and may temporarily soothe irritated gums. Just remember not to swallow the solution.
Apply a Cold Compress
If your toothache is accompanied by swelling, a cold compress can provide temporary relief. Wrap an ice pack or a bag of ice in a towel and hold it against the outside of your cheek for short periods.
The cold can help numb the area and reduce swelling. Avoid placing ice directly against your tooth or gums, as extreme cold can cause additional discomfort.
Try an Over-the-Counter Pain Reliever
Over-the-counter pain medication can also help manage dental pain while you’re waiting for professional treatment. Always follow the directions on the package and make sure the medication is appropriate for you.
Don’t place aspirin or other pain medication directly against your tooth or gums. Doing so can irritate or burn the soft tissues in your mouth.
Keep Your Mouth Clean
When your tooth hurts, you may be tempted to avoid brushing the area entirely. However, keeping your mouth clean is still important.
Gently brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss carefully to remove food particles that could be irritating the area. If flossing around the painful tooth causes significant discomfort, don’t force it.
What About Pantry Remedies?
You may hear recommendations for ingredients such as garlic, clove oil, or other household products as natural toothache treatments. While some people use these remedies for temporary relief, they aren’t substitutes for professional dental care. Applying concentrated substances directly to your gums can also cause irritation.
When you have severe dental pain, simple measures such as a cold compress, saltwater rinse, and appropriate over-the-counter pain relief are generally safer choices while you wait for your appointment.
When Is a Toothache an Emergency?
Severe dental pain deserves professional attention, particularly when it doesn’t go away. Seek prompt dental care if you have facial or jaw swelling, fever, difficulty swallowing, difficulty breathing, or other signs of a potentially serious infection.
Even if a home remedy makes your toothache feel better, that doesn’t necessarily mean the underlying problem has disappeared. Dental infections and other causes of severe tooth pain generally require professional treatment.
Home remedies can help you get through the wait, but the best way to put a persistent toothache behind you is to find and treat its cause.
About the Practice
Zirker Family Dentistry provides comprehensive dental care for patients and families, with a focus on comfortable, personalized treatment. Dr. Zirker and Dr. Warner offer emergency dentistry for urgent dental concerns, helping patients receive timely care when unexpected pain, injuries, or other dental problems arise.
Call us at (208) 528-7665 or schedule your appointment online.