Tips for Dealing with a Toothache

Most people would agree that a toothache is one of the worst pains in the world. After all, it can have an impact on everything you do. A toothache makes it almost impossible to eat or drink and can make it difficult to concentrate. It can also disrupt your sleep - which makes things worse.

Toothaches are commonly caused by cavities, tooth decay/erosion, or an infection. The best way to treat the pain is to find the cause. Dr. Afroz Burges can help you find the cause of your toothache and recommend the appropriate treatment. Unfortunately, a toothache doesn’t wait until regular office hours to strike.

If you are experiencing a toothache, there are a few things you can do to quickly stop the pain and help you deal with it until you can get into the office.

7 Ways to Stop Toothache

Below, we will explain 7 ways that you can quickly relieve the pain of a toothache until you can get into the office.

1. Thoroughly clean teeth after eating: When you are eating, food particles may get stuck between the teeth. Over the course of a few hours, this can trigger a toothache because there’s not supposed to be anything there. Simply taking the time to thoroughly brush and floss your teeth can help relieve the pain. You can also prevent future problems by taking the time to brush and floss after every meal.
2. Apply a cold compress: The pain from a toothache may also radiate into the face, cheeks, and jaw. In some cases, there is also swelling present, which can worsen the pain. A cold compress can help decrease swelling and numb the pain.
3. Try OTC medications: When it comes to a toothache, OTC pain medications can help relieve the pain. However, it is important to note that this will not provide immediate relief, nor should it be used as a long-term solution. Make sure to swallow the medication and avoid hitting your teeth/gums.
4. Rinse with hydrogen peroxide: Many dental issues, including toothache, can be relieved with hydrogen peroxide. After all, it destroys bacteria and relieves inflammation in the surrounding tissues. It will kill the bacteria that is causing the pain, as well as thoroughly clean your mouth. You will want to make sure that you dilute it with water to avoid exposing your mouth to too much of it.
5. Apply fresh garlic to the affected tooth: Garlic is a natural pain reliever because it is consumable. Many toothaches are due to bacterial infections/diseases. Fresh garlic can kill this bacteria. Simply crush fresh garlic cloves to make a paste and apply it to the affected tooth. While it won’t immediately cure the pain, it will offer some relief. The best part is, after holding it on your tooth, you can simply swallow it.
6. Rinse with salt water: A saltwater rinse is always a good idea- even if you don’t have a toothache. After all, it naturally disinfects the mouth. However, in the case of a toothache, the swishing will release any debris that may be stuck between teeth, causing pain. Plus, it will decrease any swelling and inflammation in the area.
7. Use alcohol: This tip should only be used by patients over the age of 21. Alcohol has been used for centuries to relieve pain effectively. Alcohol will disinfect your mouth and will kill any infection/disease that is causing the pain. Simply swish some whiskey or vodka in the mouth for a few seconds and spit or soak a cotton ball in the alcohol and place it on the affected area.

Call Dr. Afroz Burges for Your Toothache

We understand that a toothache can be unpleasant. If you are in or near Pearland, Texas, and you have a toothache, contact our office today to schedule an appointment. We can help you determine what is causing your toothache and treat it.

If you are experiencing a toothache after hours, try these solutions until you can get an appointment.

SHARE