The pain of toothache can make it difficult to sleep, concentrate on work or even enjoy your favourite activities. The first thing you need to do to address your toothache is book an emergency appointment with your dentist to get a diagnosis and treatment for whatever is causing the problem. While you wait for your scheduled appointment time to arrive, here are a few things you can do to ease the pain.
1. Make Your Own Salt Water Rinse
Salty water creates a slightly alkaline environment inside your mouth, preventing bacteria from multiplying. As a result, rinsing with salt water may help to prevent an infection or stop one from getting worse while you wait to see a dentist. Add half a teaspoon of salt to a cup of warm water to make your own salt water rinse, which you should use to rinse your mouth several times a day.
2. Apply Cold to Numb the Ache
A cold compress can reduce the pain of toothache. Make your own by wrapping a clean towel around some ice cubes or frozen peas. Press the compress against your cheek on the side you feel pain. Be careful not to let any ice touch your skin directly, as cold that is too extreme can cause damage to skin.
3. Stick to Soft Foods
Going without food when you have a toothache is likely to make you feel even worse, so it's important to eat as regularly as you can. However, you need to choose your meals carefully to avoid irritating your sore tooth. Select foods that don't require chewing, such as blended soups, yoghurt, and pureed potatoes. It is very important to let the food cool to a comfortable temperature before you take a mouthful, as excessive heat is likely to make your toothache worse.
4. Stay Upright
Many people find that their toothache gets worse when they lay down to sleep. Keeping your head elevated on several pillows can help reduce the amount of pain you feel at night.
5. Take Pain Medications
Pain medicines can help you cope with toothache until you can get to the dentist. Ibuprofen and paracetamol are both effective at treating dental pain. However, it is best to avoid taking aspirin, which could cause your gums to bleed excessively when you finally receive treatment from your dentist. If you suffer from ongoing medical conditions and are not sure which pain medication options are suitable for you, you can ask a pharmacist or a dentist at offices like Dentists @ Muswellbrook Pty Ltd for advice.
