A toothache which can be due to various causes can lead to a throbbing pain in your jaw and gums. It can either affect one side of your mouth or both where it hurts when you bite something or let in air. In most cases, tooth pain is a symptom of an underlying issue and you might require a dentist to address and resolve the problem. This is because most of the time tooth pain can subside, but often come back with sharp, unbearable pain.
With credible information and the help of a grosse pointe dentist, you can find out more about toothaches, how to ease the pain, and the best ways to prevent them. Below are some of the tips to dealing with a tooth pain that has been proven to work after several studies.
Take OTC pills
Buy an over-the-counter painkiller with anti-inflammatory effects such as ibuprofen (Advil). 600-800 milligrams for three days will be enough to reduce inflammation. Avoid applying painkillers directly to the gums since the acid they contain can affect your gum tissue. Also, you can apply medicated ointments and numbing gels to help reduce tooth pain. According to studies, benzocaine is not a good alternative for young children.
Effective home remedies
Rinse with saltwater
Rinsing with salt water is a common way to deal with tooth pain. Prepare salt water by dissolving half a teaspoon of salt in warm water. Then rinse your mouth with this solution at least 4-5 times daily. This will relieve any gum pain, reduce swelling and remove any bacteria and materials stuck in your gums as well as reduce inflammation. Also, salt contains properties that protect your teeth from infection.
Elevate your head
Raise your head by placing it on a pillow to reduce the pain. This position also reduces excess blood flow to the affected area allowing you to sleep.
Apply a cold compress
A cold compress by placing an ice pack against the affected part of your face or cheek for at least 20 minutes before going to bed is a great way to numb tooth pain. The cold constricts the blood vessels reducing pain. When using a cold compress, never apply the ice directly to your tooth to avoid increasing tooth due sensitivity to temperature changes.
Cloves
Cloves contain properties like eugenol that help provide pain relief. But, use cloves sparingly since they also have antibacterial properties that can kill beneficial bacteria present in the mouth. Apply a small amount of clove oil to a piece of cotton or tissue and press the cotton to the affected area. If you have an exposed nerve due to the formation of a deep cavity it will help reduce the pain.
Garlic
Chew a piece of garlic or place crushed bits onto the affected tooth. Though it causes bad breath, garlic is an effective pain reliever containing antibacterial properties.
Please note that before using any of these natural plant remedies, it would be best to consult your dentist because some might have side effects.
While these tips might relieve you from tooth pain, sometimes they might not work for long. You can also prevent tooth pain by practising oral hygiene practices like flossing to eliminate tooth pain caused by food particles stuck between your teeth. If the pain doesn’t subside, you need to schedule an appointment with a dentist who will examine your teeth and treat the main cause of the toothache.
