10 Ways to Alleviate a Toothache

A toothache can range from a mild, occasional twinge of pain to severe, constant pain. Here are 10 ways to find some relief while you wait to see the dentist.

• See The Dentist - The best way to address a toothache is to see your dentist as soon as possible to identify and treat the underlying cause.
• Pain Relievers - Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
• Clove Oil - Clove oil has natural antiseptic and pain-relieving properties and can be dabbed on the affected area.
• Rinse - Rinsing with warm salt water can help reduce inflammation and clean the area around the painful tooth.
• Floss - Gently flossing around the painful tooth can remove trapped food particles that may be causing pain.
• Chill the Pain - Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek can help numb the pain and reduce swelling.
• Heat the Pain - A warm compress can also help relieve tension and discomfort in some cases.
• Watch What You Eat - Avoid extremely hot, cold, sweet or acidic foods that can aggravate a sensitive or painful tooth.
• Cool Swelling - If your face is swollen, alternating cold compresses can help reduce swelling until you can be seen.
• Keep Your Head Up - Try to keep your head elevated, even while sleeping, since lying flat can increase pressure and pain in the tooth.

We urge you to call us at (417) 777-8654 at the first indication of a painful toothache. It could save you days of agony and help prevent anything worse from happening.