A toothache can strike any time, but getting relief from a doctor anytime is another story. Weekends, late nights, and holidays when the dentist away are no ideal time to be overwhelmed with the painful aching of teeth. So how do you hold off the pain until you can see a dentist to fix your teeth? Take a look at the following toothache pain relief tips that work even when your doctor isn’t there to help you.
Over the Counter Pain Medication
The first place to turn to when a doctor isn’t in is over the counter pain medications that will help reduce swelling and combat pain. Acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil), and naproxen (Aleve) are all good temporary pain relievers that can get you through the weekend. As always, take these as directed on the package to avoid overdose and other complications. When you finally do see your doctor for your tooth pain, make sure to tell him what medication you chose to take. For children who have toothaches, do not administer aspirin. Instead, use acetaminophen.
Stay Neutral
“Staying neutral” means staying away from extremely hot or cold foods. Rapid temperature change can cause the tooth pain to increase dramatically. Instead, stay with foods that are lukewarm or slightly cool instead. Don’t drink iced or chilled beverages and wait until food has cooled before eating. Staying neutral also means choose soft foods over hard ones that may be hard to chew. If your pain is due to a cavity, loose filling or crown, crunchy or firm foods could cause irreversible damage. If your toothache is due to jaw pain, though, feel free to use a warm compress to soothe the damaged jaw. Make sure, though, to only apply a compress for 15 minute intervals to prevent nerve and muscle damage. If jaw pain occurs frequently, you may be a sufferer of TMJ.
Turn to a Natural Cure
Surprisingly, there are many herbal methods that can relieve the pain of a toothache. The essential oils used for this type of pain relief are also easily found at most drug or natural food stores. If you choose, relief can be obtained by gently biting on a cotton ball or pad soaked in clove oil. Clove acts as a natural numbing agent and antibacterial, making it perfect for tooth aches. Peppermint and cinnamon oil may provide a tingling sensation that will detract from the pain. But know that concentrated oils will be harmful to some people who are sensitive to herbs. If you don’t know if you are sensitive or not, try rubbing the oil you choose to use on a small patch of skin before putting the oil in your mouth.
Toothache Relief at Home
Even though you may not be able to see a doctor right away, there are still things you can do in the meantime for temporary toothache pain relief. First, try an over the counter pain medication the reduce pain and swelling. Avoid food that is too hot, cold, or hard, as these items could make the pain or condition worse. Finally, consider turning to an herbal remedy to reduce the pain.