Consider your toothache as a call or text message. Your mouth is signaling that you are experiencing pain. You need to schedule an appointment with your dentist. There’s no turning back once you have sent the message and the appointment has been booked.
You can temporarily block the messages that you are receiving. If you are suffering from a toothache, and you want to temporarily relieve the pain before you go to the dentist, we will let you know which over-the-counter or at-home remedies you have so that you can keep smiling.
What are Common Causes of Toothaches
- Cavities
The bacteria in your mouth eat food and sugar, which creates tooth enamel-attacking alkali. These acid attacks on your teeth can lead to tooth decay. You probably guessed that tooth decay can lead to tooth pain. - Infection
Extended throbbing could indicate an infection (or a buildup in pus that is caused by a bacterial disease) in your teeth or gums. - Gum Disease
The Journal of Dental Research states that almost half of Americans over 30 are affected by gum disease (or 47.1 percent). Gum disease can progress to periodontitis if it is not treated in its early stages. Both can cause toothaches. However, the latter can cause loosening or even complete loss of your teeth. - Fracture
Toothaches can occur from pressure, grinding teeth, biting and chewing hard foods, or a hard injury. - Broken Filling
The filling could be broken or loose if you feel sensitive in the area you had previously.
Over the Counter Toothache Relief
Dependent on your symptoms, an over-the counter toothache medication can be used to relieve your pain while you wait for professional help.
- Benzocaine
You can reduce pain by applying the topical anesthetic to your gums or teeth. Important note: The American Dental Association states that benzocaine should be avoided for children under 2. - Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen is a pain reliever that can be used as a first line of pain relief until your dentist is able to diagnose and treat you. Acetaminophen is not effective in treating inflammation. A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAID) may be recommended if you experience redness, swelling and heat. - NSAIDs
The sharp pain that comes with a cavity can be reduced by nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs such as naproxen, ibuprofen and ibuprofen. However, they can help reduce inflammation due to gum disease, sinusitis, or abscessed teeth. Remember to consult your doctor before using NSAIDs more than 10 times per week.
Home Remedies to Help with Oral Pain
There are many home remedies that can be used to alleviate pain and reduce symptoms until you reach your dentist’s office.
- Salt Water Rinse
Saltwater is known for its natural healing powers and can be used in a variety of ways. You can add a teaspoon of salt to a cup full of warm water. After swirling the mixture around your lips, spit it all out. - Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse
Hydrogen peroxide can be used to relieve swelling and pain in the mouth, just like saltwater. It can kill bacteria, reduce plaque and heal bleeding gums. Make a solution by adding 3 percent hydrogenperoxide to a cup of water. Use the solution to swirl around in your mouth. But don’t swallow. You can also buy hydrogen peroxide over-the counter if DIY is not your thing.
These recommendations will provide temporary relief until your dentist can be seen. Your dentist will diagnose the root cause of your pain and provide treatment that will keep you smiling.