How to Get Rid of a Toothache

The easiest solution for a toothache is to visit the dentist as soon as possible. However, if the dentist is not immediately available, the person will need to endure a level of pain for some time. A toothache could be a sign of several issues such as damaged fillings, a tooth fracture, tooth decay, an abscessed tooth or infected gums. In this article, you will discover helpful tips that will help to reduce or stop toothache before you get to the dentist.

How to stop a toothache

There are two main methods of preventing or minimizing tooth pain. The first entails alleviating inflammation, and the second focuses on cutting off injury signals to the brain. The first is achievable by applying a cold compress to the affected side of the face.

Anti-Inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen can help relieve swelling and cut pain signals. The drug must be taken every few hours according to the information on the label, as stopping after getting relief may trigger inflammation. If ibuprofen is not available, acetaminophen may help. Although it can help with the pain, it is not an anti-inflammatory drug.

Natural ways to get toothache relief

Aside from cold packs and over-the-counter pain relievers, patients can relieve tooth pain naturally through:

• Saltwater: Mixing salt with water creates a saline rinse that can help to clean infections and give temporary relief for the pain. Patients can swish the water for about two minutes and spit it out. Care must be taken to avoid swallowing the saltwater
• Hot packs: Placing a hot pack on the side of the jaw can help provide significant pain relief. If a hot pack is not available, it is possible to make one by filling a clean sock with rice and tying it up. Afterward, the person will heat up the rice-filled sock in the microwave until hot
• Acupressure: Some people believe that acupressure may be useful for toothaches by triggering the body to release endorphins. The body is believed to have specific key points that are linked to oral discomfort
• Peppermint Tea Bags: Peppermint tea bags are generally safe and possess mild numbing properties that can provide momentary pain relief. Some people store the tea bags inside the freezer for some minutes before using them

Preventing tooth pain

The most effective way to handle a toothache is to prevent its occurrence. Patients can lower their risk of developing oral health issues by brushing twice daily and flossing before going to bed at night. Consuming healthy diets and avoiding sugary and starchy foods and drinks is also helpful. Bad habits such as teeth grinding and chewing on hard items can cause teeth to fracture, which may cause intense tooth pain.

Final note

It is vital that patients schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings to ensure they get prompt treatment for issues before they turn into painful dental problems that require invasive procedures. If you are experiencing tooth pain, make sure you contact a dentist immediately for help.

Request an appointment here: https://www.diamondheaddentalcare.com or call Diamond Head Dental Care at (808) 450-2101 for an appointment in our Honolulu office.

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