When you’re suffering from a toothache things can look quite grim. It’s difficult to eat, sleep, talk, or think! Your first thought is that you may need a filling (to remedy a cavity), or a tooth extraction. However, toothache symptoms can mimic symptoms of other medical or dental issues. Therefore, contact your dentist for an evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment so you will no longer have to say: A toothache, ouch!
Pain, Pain, Go Away!
If you are suffering from a toothache, the first thing you will want to know is how to get rid of the pain. That’s why we are going to cover that first. Here are some suggestions to help alleviate toothache pain:
- First, rinse with warm salt water
- Next, gently floss to dislodge any trapped food particles
- A cold compress on the outside of the cheek may help reduce pain and swelling
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain relief
- Also, to relieve pain you can apply an over-the-counter antiseptic containing benzocaine directly to the irritated tooth and gum
Either directly before or after trying any or all of the above, call your dentist to schedule your consultation.
Symptoms
If any of the following symptoms accompany your pain, contact your dentist immediately:
- Fever
- Difficulty swallowing
- Difficulty breathing
- A foul-tasting discharge
- Pain upon biting
- Swelling in the painful area
- Pain that lasts continuously