Most people experience moderate toothaches from time to time. This could be as simple as a sensitive tooth reacting to a cold drink. However, when a severe toothache strikes, you may not be able to just wait for the pain to pass. Here are some tips to treat a severe toothache.
See a Dentist to Evaluate the Root Cause of the Problem
Before you start searching the internet for solutions, schedule an appointment with your dentist. You’re going to get a wide range of answers, and none of them may actually be applicable to your situation. Your dentist can quickly evaluate your symptoms and examine your smile to find the source of the issue. Then you can get the appropriate treatment to resolve your toothache.
Potential causes of toothaches may include:
- An Infection or Abscess
- Cavities and Tooth Decay
- Gum Inflammation
- A Chipped or Broken Tooth
- Impacted Teeth (Often the Result of Wisdom Teeth Coming in)
- Dental Misalignment
- …And Other Issues
Should I Go to the Emergency Room for a Toothache?
Generally, we recommend going to an emergency dentist for a severe toothache. Emergency rooms are not equipped to evaluate oral health like a dentist can. However, if you cannot get in to see a dentist right away, you might go to an AM/PM clinic to see a doctor for medication. The doctor may prescribe antibiotics or pain medicine to temporarily care for your tooth until you can see your dentist. Contact the dentist first to see if there is an appointment available for you.
Temporary Treatments for Severe Toothaches
You may not be able to get rid of pain completely, but here are some short-term treatments for severe toothaches:
- Swish hot salt water in your mouth. Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt to a cup of hot water. Stir the salt to dissolve, and let it cool slightly so you do not burn your mouth. Rinse your mouth for 15 seconds, and then spit out the water. Repeat once every 2-3 hours.
- Use a cold compress on the outside of your mouth. Put the cold in the area that hurts the most. Do not use heat. That will make swelling and inflammation worse, depending on the nature of your toothache. Hold the compress there for 15 minutes at a time, repeating once an hour as needed.
- Use over-the-counter pain medicine for temporary relief (ibuprofen or acetaminophen). This may not fully alleviate the pain, but it could take some of it away.
- Use an over-the-counter oral numbing agent. Once again, this may not eliminate the pain, but it could provide minor relief until you see your dentist.
Contact Clinton Dental Center to Treat Your Toothache
If you in need of fast relief for a severe toothache, contact Clinton Dental Center at (586) 949-5363. We offer emergency dentistry in Chesterfield MI, and we will get you in as soon as possible. Use the temporary treatments above to manage pain until your appointment.
