How to Make a Toothache Go Away
Toothaches can range from minor discomfort to debilitating pain. They are most frequently caused by gum disease or tooth decay, according to the Mayo Clinic, and nearly always indicate a problem that requires treatment by a dentist. While you are waiting to see your dentist, you can try a number of things to make a toothache go away.
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Things You'll Need
- Dental floss
- Over-the-counter pain reliever
- Cold compresses
- Clove oil
- Cotton balls
Instructions
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Brush your teeth to remove any trapped particles of food that may be causing swelling and pain. Floss on both sides of the affected tooth, and use a saltwater rinse to help dislodge any particles remaining after brushing and flossing. Sometimes, trapped food can cause irritation and swelling, which can place pressure on nerves in the mouth and cause a toothache.
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Take an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as aspirin, acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Ibuprofen is typically the most effective over-the-counter pain reliever because it reduces inflammation while alleviating pain.
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Apply cold or warm compresses to the affected side of your head. Cold compresses will reduce swelling and can help numb the pain. If your toothache does not respond to cold compresses, or if the pain becomes worse, try using a warm compress instead. Warmth may help reduce pain caused by an infection.
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Try clove oil to reduce pain and help your toothache go away. Clove oil is a natural antibacterial and pain reliever, and it can be diluted with olive oil, applied to a cotton ball and placed on the affected tooth to alleviate pain. Never use undiluted clove oil because it can cause tissue damage, burning and pain.
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Sleep with your head elevated. Elevating your head will reduce swelling and pressure and may help calm the throbbing associated with a toothache. Try stacking pillows, or sleep sitting up in a chair or on the couch.
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Ask your doctor for stronger pain medication if your toothache fails to respond to over-the-counter medications. Stronger pain medications can be prescribed to alleviate the pain while you wait to see your dentist.
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Take your entire course of antibiotics if your toothache is caused by an infection. An infection may be suspected if a fever is present or if there is significant swelling of the mouth or jaw. Some dentists may have you finish a course of antibiotics before working on your tooth.
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Get any problem teeth or dental diseases taken care of to permanently make a toothache go away. Home remedies and pain relievers only provide temporary relief from a toothache. To permanently make a toothache go away, you must treat the underlying cause of the pain.
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Tips & Warnings
Avoid eating very hot or very cold foods; they may make your toothache worse.
Never crush an aspirin and place it against a painful tooth. According to the American Dental Association, aspirin may burn your gums and lead to tissue damage.
