No matter how old you are, toothaches hurt. Whether it's from an infection or a cavity, a toothache can stop you in your tracks, making everyday tasks-- such as eating, speaking, and even sleeping -- seem nearly impossible. Whether it's a dull ache or throbbing, constant tooth pain may seem to affect absolutely everything you do. Ease the pain with proper handling of the toothache to make it a little more manageable until you see your dentist.
Step 1
Take the recommended dose of an over-the-counter pain medication, such as aspirin or acetaminophen. Read the manufacturer's instructions and warnings to make sure that it is safe for you to take.
Step 2
Brush your teeth gently and floss around the tooth to remove any stuck food that may be the cause of the pain. Rinse with warm water, as cold and hot temperatures can aggravate the tooth and cause more pain.
Step 3
Place a cold compress on your jaw or on the painful side of your face. The cold helps to numb the area and reduce swelling. Leave the compress on your jaw for at least 20 minutes.
Step 4
Avoid foods that may aggravate the tooth, such as anything crunchy or chewy. Hot and cold may irritate the tooth, so drink all of your liquids lukewarm until the pain stops. Stick to soft foods, and keep food away from the affected tooth as best you can by chewing on the other side of your mouth.
Step 5
Add 1 tablespoon of table salt to 8 ounces of lukewarm water and rinse your mouth with the solution. Gently swish the salty water around your mouth and hold it over the painful tooth for several seconds before spitting it out. Use this as often as needed to soothe the pain.
Tips and Warnings
- Contact your dentist if the toothache persists for longer than 24 hours or becomes worse throughout the day.
- Seek emergency care if your toothache is accompanied by a fever or earache.
Things You'll Need
- Over-the-counter pain medication
- Toothbrush
- Floss
- Cold compress
- Table salt
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Toothache; Jason S. Baker; May 2008
- Oregon Health and Science University; Toothache; Barton D. Schmitt, M.D; December 2009
- Harvard Medical School: What to do in a Dental Emergency
- Langone Medical Center; Picking a Pain Reliever: Which One Should You Take?; Laurie LaRusso, MS, ELS; March 2011
