How to Treat a Toothache
Whether it’s sharp and brief or constant, a toothache can make you not want to eat and may disrupt your sleep. If your tooth pain doesn’t subside within 24 hours, you should call a dentist or health care provider. They’ll evaluate the ache and may refer you to an endodontist for root canal therapy, especially if your tooth, dental filling or crown is damaged.
Toothache can be caused by sensitive teeth, mouth or jaw injury, sinus infection, gum disease or decay. Sometimes the pain is a sign of an abscessed tooth, which is a bacterial infection in the innermost part of the tooth called the pulp.
Toothache Relief: When to Seek Emergency Dental Care
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen will usually help. If you’re concerned about overdoing it, ask your doctor or dentist for advice on how much to take.
Natural and home remedies, such as cold compresses, clove oil, or salt water rinses, can ease a toothache temporarily. Apple cider vinegar has antiseptic properties that can kill bacteria and relieve pain. Chewing on a cinnamon stick can reduce pain, and tea tree oil has antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties. A cotton ball dabbed in clove oil or a few drops of essential oils on the aching tooth can also be effective.
However, if your pain is severe or persists, over-the-counter medication may not be enough. Call your dentist and arrange an appointment for evaluation. X-rays of your teeth and jaw may be needed to determine the cause of your toothache.
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