Toothaches can occur as a result of dental problems, such as gingivitis and tooth decay. Toothaches are painful and irritating to the sufferer, often causing pain along the nerves in the jaw and ears. Remedies for toothaches depend primarily on the cause and pain level. Severe toothaches that last for more than two days should be evaluated by a dental professional. The good news is that toothaches are highly treatable. After a brief treatment period, you will be free of the pain and swelling.
Step 1
Rinse your mouth with warm salt water. Warm salt water will ease the pain and help reduce inflammation. The salt draws out infection that may be present by drying the pus and fluids under the tooth.
Step 2
Take ibuprofen to ease pain and reduce swelling. Once the pain is eased, floss between teeth to remove any stuck food particles that may be irritating the gum and tooth, causing the toothache.
Step 3
Take a full course of antibiotics as directed by your dentist. Antibiotics are normally given when an abscess, or other infection, in the gum is present. Antibiotic treatment usually ranges from 10 to 14 days and should be taken until the treatment is complete.
Step 4
Take an OTC sinus medication or prescription sinus medication should you be diagnosed with sinusitis. Sinusitis affects the nerve endings that run along the nose, throat and jawline and may be the cause of a toothache.
Things You'll Need
- Warm salt water
- Ibuprofen
- Prescription
- Over-the-counter (OTC) sinus medications
