How to Get Rid of an Abscess Toothache

Abscess toothaches can be very painful. There are a few tricks to relieve an abscess toothache, but these techniques are only temporary. The discomfort of an abscess toothache will not fully subside until your abscess has fully healed. It is possible to relieve the abscess yourself in time if it small, but a large abscess can only be removed by a dentist. In the meantime, if you aren't able to reach a dentist, using household tea bags and saltwater can greatly help reduce pain.

Things You'll Need

• numbing solution gel
• pain reliever
• salt
• black tea bags

Instructions

1. Numb the abscess and surrounding areas with a numbing solution gel. You can purchase these gels made specifically for toothaches at any drugstore. Apply the gel directly on the abscess, nearby teeth and gums. Follow the directions on the package for dosage. You can usually reapply gel as often as pain persists.

2. Take an over-the-counter pain reliever. Choose a common pain reliever that contains anti-inflammatory medication. This will greatly reduce the swelling of your abscess. Swelling irritates your gums and creates pressure between your teeth, causing pain. Taking a full dose of pain reliever medication every four to six hours will reduce swelling and the pain associated with the abscess.

3. Rinse your mouth with saltwater. Dissolve two tablespoons of salt in a warm glass of water. Fill your mouth with the warm salt water but do not swallow. Allow the salt water to sit in your mouth for up to three minutes if you can. This will help disinfect your mouth and stop some irritation, which can cause pain. In addition, it will help the abscess from getting worse and relieve your pain for 20-40 minutes. Salt water rinses work well to reduce pain but only for short periods of time. You can repeat the salt water rinse as often as necessary.

4. Apply a black tea bag to your abscess. Wet the tea bag with warm water and apply it directly in your mouth onto your abscess. Leave the tea bag to sit for four to eight hours. The contents of the tea bag draw out the abscess fluids, which greatly reduces the pain. A black tea bag should only be used as a last resort, if you won't be able to get to dentist for a while.

5. Schedule a visit with your dentist. It is very important to see your dentist as soon as your abscess occurs. These are only ways to reduce the pain of an abscess while you wait to see your dentist. An abscess toothache will never fully stop hurting until the abscess is removed.