You probably suffer from a sudden toothache and are unsure what to do. If that’s the case for you, rest assured that the dentist in Waco, TX, has addressed practical ways to quickly relieve toothache.
We understand that toothache can hurt a lot and even prevent you from chewing, talking, drinking, or eating, and it can also make you stay up all night. If you’re experiencing a severe toothache, please visit Rodeo Dental or your nearest dentist. In the meantime, read on to find emergency toothache relief tips.
Causes of a Toothache
Toothaches are caused by several reasons, including
- Cavities
- Tooth decay
- Facial injury
- Bruxism
- Gum disease
Things to do for Emergency Toothache Relief
Below are things that will help you find some relief when you suffer from toothache.
Saltwater rinses
Take a warm glass of water and add a teaspoon of salt. Mix the solution and perform mouth rinses to effectively reduce inflammation and relieve some pain. Gently swish for 30 seconds and spit out.
Ice pack
Cold temperatures can relieve pain as they can constrict blood vessels in the hurting area. Therefore, take an ice pack or wrap some ice in a towel and gently apply it to the painful area for 15-minute intervals.
Numbing gel
Medicated anesthetic gels are available at any pharmacy that numb the painful area. These gels provide instant relief when suffering from toothache.
NSAID
Taking NSAIDs can reduce inflammation and pain significantly. You can get them quickly at any pharmacy or drugstore, and Ibuprofen and naproxen are some examples of NSAIDs.
Things NOT to do
Avoid these things to prevent worsening your condition:
Smoking
If you’re experiencing a toothache, please stay away from smoking as it can worsen the pain. Smoking can also lead to tooth decay and cause irritation to sensitive areas.
Extreme temperature foods
Avoid consuming hot or cold foods and drinks when suffering from toothaches, as they can irritate your teeth and worsen toothaches.
Tobacco
Tobacco can expose your teeth to harmful chemicals, and these chemicals can worsen your toothaches by causing irritation and inflammation.
Crunchy foods
Eating hard, crunchy foods can damage your teeth and get stuck in your teeth, and this can worsen toothaches and may lead to cavities if not cleaned.
Acidic or sticky foods.
Consuming sticky or acidic foods can lead to cavities and toothache. They are also challenging to remove. So whenever you consume such foods, make sure to clean your mouth after 30 minutes.
Brushing too hard
Brushing or flossing too hard can damage your teeth and gums, and it can also wear down the enamel, the protective layer of your teeth. This way, your teeth become prone to bacteria attacks, and you might experience tooth pain and swelling.
Conclusion
A toothache is a sign that something is wrong. So, if you experience tooth pain, please contact your dentist. We will evaluate your condition and recommend the best treatment per your unique condition. Call us today for more information or assistance. We are ready to help you find permanent relief.