Severe Oral Pain And Toothaches: At-Home Temporary Care Measures
These temporary measures should NOT be considered substitutes for professional dental treatment. It's imperative to visit a dentist as soon as possible for proper care.
Rinse with Warm Water:
- Gently rinse your mouth with warm water to clean it and remove any food particles.
Saltwater Rinse:
- Swish a mixture of warm water and salt (1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) around in your mouth to reduce swelling and disinfect the area.
Cold Compress:
- Apply a cold compress or ice pack to your cheek over the affected area to reduce swelling and numb the pain.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers:
- Take over-the-counter pain relief if necessary. Avoid using any pain medication that has previously caused side effects or adverse reactions or that your doctor has advised against due to potential side effects or adverse reactions.
Avoid Hard, Hot, or Cold Foods:
- Stick to soft foods and avoid extreme temperatures in foods and drinks, as they might worsen the pain.
Elevate Your Head:
- When resting or sleeping, keep your head elevated to reduce blood pressure in the tooth area, which can exacerbate pain.
Keep the Area Clean:
- Continue to brush and floss your teeth gently, avoiding the painful area as much as possible.
Avoid Smoking:
- Smoking can aggravate oral pain and impede the healing process.
Avoid Aspirin on the Gums:
- Never place aspirin directly on your gums or aching tooth, as this can cause a chemical burn to your gum tissue.
