Toothaches are nothing new. Everyone has experienced a toothache in one form or another over the course of their lives. Thankfully, we are experiencing it less and less than our ancestors with advancements in dental care, and regular checkups. However, should you be so unfortunate to get a toothache, there are some simple steps you can take to minimize or possibly eliminate your tooth pain.
10 Tips for Treating Toothaches
1. Take two Aspirin, Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen
Ibuprofin is best since it does a good job of reducing painful inflammation. However, be sure to read the instructions on the bottle for proper usage of whichever medicine you choose to take.
2. Antiseptic Rinse
Using an antiseptic rinse along with brushing 2-3 times per day may help relieve a minor toothache until you can get to the dentist.
3. Apply garlic and salt to the tooth
Mash a clove of garlic together with a pinch of rock salt and apply the paste to the site of the toothache. Garlic has allicin, a powerful antibacterial compound. This is thought to help stop the bacteria which cause toothaches. (tip courtesty of ehow.com)
4. Put cold compress on side of cheek
5. Numb the affected tooth/teeth with a desensitizing agent
Use oral over-the-counter topical tooth analgesics. This remedy will not eliminate a toothache, just numb the area for temporary relief.
6. Chew on a Piece of Onion
Onions are believed to kill some forms of bacteria which can cause a toothache.
7. Rinse your mouth with water
This can help to remove any food debris that may be aggravating your toothache.
8. Plug the tooth with gauze or wax
Plugging the affected tooth with gauze or wax can reduce its sensitivity to eating or drinking.
9. Elevate your head
Elevating your head can reduce the pressure to the affected tooth and its surrounding area – thus reducing the pain you’re experiencing.
10. Seek Dental Care Immediately
These remedies may provide short term pain relief only. A good rule of thumb is if the toothache is causing you to lose sleep or consume your attention throughout the day it’s time to see your dentist. Don’t assume that your toothache is no big deal and let it worsen. What you have could be a tooth abscess which needs to be treated right away to avoid the infection from spreading.
