3 Solutions To Ease Your Toothache Pain
Whether you have broken a tooth or are dealing with a cavity or infection, a toothache can cause enormous pain. In many cases, this pain can be so severe, it prevents you from sleeping at night and completing simple tasks during the day. Visiting your dentist immediately is smart if you are suffering from a toothache, since you may require treatment, such as a root canal, extraction, or medications for an infection. However, there are ways to find relief that can help until you see your dentist. Here are a few effective options for easing a toothache.
Ice Pack
One of the easiest and most accessible ways to find relief from your toothache pain is with an ice pack. Wrapping a few pieces of ice in a cloth or placing into a bag and holding on the surface of your jaw near the throbbing tooth will numb the throbbing and discomfort.
An ice pack can also increase blood circulation through your jaw and gum tissue, easing the swelling while providing you some comfort.
If you do not have ice available to you, consider placing a bag of frozen vegetables onto the area of your mouth where the pain is located.
Salt Water Rinse
While surprising to learn, rinsing your mouth with salt water can also reduce your toothache pain.
As the salt combines with your mouth, a reaction occurs. This chemical reaction fights bacteria, which is beneficial if your toothache stems from an underlying infection. Salt is also proven to promote healing, so many dentists recommend it after a dental procedure for easing inflammation and pain and to aid in recovery.
Salt is also readily available in most households, so you can easily create a salt water rinse.
Add ½ teaspoon of salt to a cup of warm water. Mix to ensure the salt dissolves into the water before rinsing. Rinse your mouth every 2 to 3 hours to soothe your gums and any inflammation caused by the underlying dental condition causing your toothache.
Ibuprofen
Taking an over-the-counter ibuprofen can also ease your toothache pain until you are able to see the dentist.
Ibuprofen is an anti-inflammatory medication. It is effective for easing the swelling and inflammation around your tooth and gum tissue. It is also capable of reducing your pain so you can sleep, rest, and recovery once you see your dentist.
If you have a toothache, visit a dental clinic immediately is imperative. Even though the above options will offer you some relief, they will treat the underlying cause of your toothache.