1. Look for Foreign Objects in the Teeth
Sometimes food or other particle_temps can become lodged between your teeth or in your gums. This can cause a degree of tooth crowding or irritation to sensitive gums, which leads to a toothache. If pain is localized, rather than general, examine the area in good light. If you notice excess redness or swelling in a gum area, concentrate your efforts there.
Rinse your mouth with warm water. Use floss or an interdental pick to remove anything stuck between the teeth. If you find a foreign object that appears to be the culprit of your pain, you should feel better very soon. However, pits in a tooth or pus exuding from the spot may indicate that the tooth is damaged or has a cavity that needs quick attention from a dentist.
2. Address Toothache Pain
Topical tooth-pain relievers containing benzocaine both cleanse your mouth and slightly numb the painful teeth and surrounding gums. When tooth pain persists long enough to warrant relief, the underlying cause likely needs attention. Even if a topical antiseptic reduces your pain, you should still see a dentist for a diagnosis and further treatment. A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), such as aspirin or ibuprofen, may dull the ache, depending on its cause. Take these orally with plenty of water. Do not use them as a topical treatment directly on the gums.
3. Treat Sinus Toothaches
Sinus toothaches are characterized by general pain near the maxillary sinus, and not in one particular tooth. If your toothache accompanies a sudden sinus infection or chronic sinusitis, NSAIDs may give you effective pain relief. If that's not enough to make you feel better, or if you have obvious swelling in the maxillary sinus area near your top teeth and gums, use a moist-heat pad to control the throbbing.
Sometimes sinusitis is exacerbated by a TMJ condition. If you get frequent toothaches and show TMJ symptoms of grinding your teeth, consider using a night mouth guard. Curtailing TMJ behavior can be the key to eliminating toothache pain.
