Toothache pain can be excruciating. When your tooth hurts, you want relief right away. Unfortunately, sometimes you’re not able to get in to see a dentist for a few days or more, depending on the severity of the issue. There are some actions you can take at home in the meantime. If you’re dealing with a toothache in Highland Park, consider these tips to manage the pain.
Start with a Painkiller
An over-the-counter painkiller like ibuprofen or aspirin is a great start when dealing with pain from a sore tooth. Follow the directions on the bottle to avoid upset stomach or associated side effects.
Place Cold on the Area
Apply a cold compress such as a damped cloth or ice pack wrapped in a towel to the outside of your mouth near the affected tooth. This will help to numb and soothe the pain. Be sure not to use heat, though. Toothache pain can often stem from an infection. Heat will only make that problem worse.
Be Sure the Tooth Is Clean
Sometimes the smallest bit of food along the tooth or gum line can exacerbate the pain. While it may hurt initially, be sure the area is clean by brushing it and flossing around the painful tooth. A saltwater rinse can help to remove debris and also to reduce irritation. Add a teaspoon of salt to a cup of water, mix it up and swish it around.
Numb the Tooth
You can buy products at the drug store for numbing a toothache. Home remedies like clove, garlic or peppermint oil may help in a pinch. Slight numbing is better than nothing.
Don’t hesitate to let the dental staff know if you feel yours is an emergency. In the meantime, dealing with a toothache in Highland Park can be eased with these suggestions.
Call the office of North Suburban Dental if you’re dealing with a persistent toothache or visit our website at https://www.nsdentist.com/ to learn more.