How to Get Rid Of a Toothache
No one wants to get a toothache, but if you find yourself with a sore jaw or an agitated tooth, it’s time to get to the dentist. Sometimes this isn’t possible immediately,so there are a few ways to help relieve the pain until the pros can take a look.
First and foremost, if you can determine what is causing the pain you’ll be able to best treat it. Toothaches can be caused by a variety of reasons, most commonly as a result of tooth decay. Grinding, tooth eruption, infection, gum disease and trauma can all result in pain. Some of these can be prevented, while some, like a new tooth growing in, are mere facts of life. Either way, you don’t have to live with the pain until you can visit your dentist.
Tips To Get Rid Of Toothache
Swish warm salt water: One of the best options, warm salt water, can be soothing to an achy tooth and it helps to alleviate the pain. Mix a spoonful of salt with warm water and swish in your mouth as often as you want. One of the reasons it works is that the salt helps to keep bad bacteria from growing, at the same time helping your mouth to heal. It is a gentle, easy solution using products that most people already have in their homes.
Swish an alcohol mouthwash: The most effective rinse will have the highest concentration of alcohol, and this isn’t limited to mouthwash. While rinsing the mouth with liquor such as vodka or scotch may cause a burning sensation initially, it’ll help kill any infection in your mouth, much like when using alcohol to disinfect a wound. Avoid this option with children.
Over the Counter Pain Reliever: Swallow whichever your preferred pain reliever is to help minimize swelling and cut down on the pain. Children typically have the best results with an appropriate dosage of acetaminophen.
Oral Analgesic: If you can reach the painful area, try applying an oral pain relieving gel to the affected area. This will temporarily numb the area, offering relief due to the ingredient benzocaine. This is an effective solution to get you through to your appointment, but isn’t a permanent solution to the pain.
Ice It: If your face is swollen, you’ll get fast relief from an ice pack applied directly to the affected area. Not only will this help with numbing the pain, but it will also help to reduce the swelling.
Get to the Dentist: Your dentist will be able to identify the source of the pain and correct it. Call your dentist as soon as you experience the discomfort so you can get it taken care of as quickly as can be. If it is particularly urgent, an emergency dentist should be able to help.
Prevent it: With good oral hygiene, you won’t have to worry about many issues that can arise as a result of decay and infections. Brushing, flossing, rinsing and regular appointments for cleanings at your dentist’s office will keep those teeth in top shape.
