Few things can ruin your day faster than throbbing, stinging tooth pain. It seems like no matter what you do, it sticks around, making daily life a chore as you wait for a dentist appointment. So, if you’re asking yourself, “What to do if I have a toothache?” Keep reading. You’ll find some fast, easy ways to soothe your pain at home.
Cold Compress
One of the quickest ways to reduce swelling and numb pain is with a cold compress. Place an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel against the outside of your cheek for 15 to 20 minutes. Repeat this every few hours as needed and enjoy the cool, soothing relief.
Saltwater Rinse
Salty water is a natural disinfectant that’s been used since ancient times to help loosen debris and reduce inflammation. To make your solution, just mix half a teaspoon of table salt in an 8-ounce glass of warm water. Then, gently swish it around your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen can help relieve tooth pain and swelling. Just make sure to follow the recommended dosage and avoid applying aspirin directly to your gums. Doing so can cause chemical burns.
Clove Oil
Another remedy with very old roots is clove oil. This slightly sweet liquid contains eugenol, which is a natural pain reliever. Soak a cotton ball in a few drops and gently dab it on the affected area. If the taste is too strong, you can mix it with a few drops of olive oil to weaken it.
Elevate Your Head
Sleeping is one of the most difficult tasks during a toothache, and while it may sound simple, propping your head up can genuinely help. Lying flat can increase blood flow to your head, which makes tooth pain worse. So, lifting it with pillows when you sleep can help reduce throbbing and give you some peace.
See Your Dentist Soon
While home remedies can give you some much-needed relief, it’s best not to rely on them for too long. Toothaches are often the neon sign your smile holds up to tell you it’s in danger. There’s often something under the surface, like cavities, infections, or cracked teeth causing your discomfort.
A sudden, severe toothache can hit like a hammer, but these home remedies can give you peace of mind while you wait for professional care. With quick action and the help of your dentist, you’ll be smiling again in no time—without the wince.
About the Practice
At Sweet Family Dentistry, Dr. Derek Chan and Dr. Josephine Yip understand that tooth pain can be overwhelming. That’s why our team offers same-day emergency appointments—getting to the root of severe toothaches quickly and providing solutions that restore health and peace of mind. Call (847) 259-1111 to schedule an emergency appointment with us, or visit our website to learn more.