Toothaches and swollen gums are not partial; they can affect anyone---no matter what age or sex. They can occur for a variety of reasons including molar decay, cracked teeth, mouth injury, food caught in the teeth, gingivitis, scurvy and harsh dental care products. Because mouth pain can affect the way you smile, eat and even breathe, it is important to understand how to treat and ease symptoms.
Avoid Irritants
According to the MedlinePlus website, some over-the-counter mouthwashes and toothpastes can cause tooth and gum irritation. Switch to a different brand of mouthwash or toothpaste if you are sensitive to alcohol or any of the other ingredients found in them. In addition, tobacco products can irritate the gums. Find a way to quit---there are several nicotine replacement products, such as medications and patches, that can help break your addiction to nicotine.
A Shot of Whiskey
Dr. Philip Corn in the "Doctors Book of Home Remedies" recommends numbing tooth and gum pain with a swig of whiskey. Hold a small mouthful of whiskey in your mouth, allowing the gums to absorb the alcohol needed to numb any pain. Spit out the whiskey after approximately a minute.
Dental Floss
Because stuck food particles can sometimes result in tooth and gum pain, MayoClinic.com recommends using dental floss to dislodge any food.
Hand Massage
Use an ice cube to massage your hand for about 5 minutes, where the thumb and forefinger bones meet. According to the "Doctors Book of Home Remedies", this can ease toothaches by as much as 50 percent. Because the nerve pathways on which tooth pain travels can transmit only one signal at a time, rubbing sends impulses that outweigh the pain.
Pain Reliever Medication
Swallow a pain reliever such as ibuprofen, aspirin or acetaminophen to ease pain and inflammation caused by swollen gums or a toothache. Follow the package directions for recommended dosages.
Ice
Dr. Phillip Corn explains that gum and tooth pain should be treated similarly to a bruise. Place an ice pack up against your cheek, or suck on an ice cube for about 15 minutes approximately three times a day.
References
- "The Doctors Book of Home Remedies"; Prevention Magazine Editors; 2003
- MayoClinic.com: Toothache
- MedlinePlus: Gums- Swollen
- MedlinePlus: Quitting Smoking
- MedlinePlus: Toothaches
