Tootache how to treat it

Toothache tips and when to seek care

First, quick safety checks:

• If you have severe facial swelling, difficulty breathing or swallowing, fever with facial swelling, or severe uncontrolled pain, seek urgent dental or medical care.
• If you’ve had a recent injury to the face or jaw, or if the tooth is broken or a filling is missing, see a dentist as soon as possible.

Ways to manage a toothache at home (non-emergency, until you can see a dentist)

Rinse and clean

• Rinse with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon salt in 8 ounces of water) several times a day.
• Keep the mouth clean; brush gently around the painful area and floss carefully.

Pain relief

• Over-the-counter pain relievers can help. Options include acetaminophen (paracetamol) or NSAIDs like ibuprofen. Follow dosing guidelines on the label.
• If you’re unsure what’s safe for you (pregnant, kidney issues, stomach ulcers, blood thinners, other medications), check with a clinician first.

Local care around the tooth

• Gently rinse with warm water after meals to reduce food debris.
• Avoid very hot or very cold foods to reduce sensitivity if that worsens pain.
• Avoid chewing on the painful side.

Mild home remedies that some people find helpful

• A cold compress on the outside of your cheek for 15–20 minutes may reduce pain and swelling.
• Clove oil has traditional use for dental pain, but use very small amounts and dilute it; it can irritate tissues, so proceed with caution.

Situations that require dental care

• Severe, persistent toothache lasting more than 1–2 days.
• Visible swelling of the face or gum area.
• Sensitivity to temperature that lasts after the stimulus is gone.
• A broken tooth, a loose tooth, or a tooth with a missing filling or crown.
• Pain that disrupts sleep.

What to tell your dentist

• When the pain started, what makes it better or worse, any fever or swelling, recent dental work, and any medications you’re taking.
• Any signs of infection (fever, swelling, pus).