Acute toothache, what to do before your appointment
Toothache often comes out of nowhere. Before you see the dentist it is important to ease things properly and not make matters worse. Here is what you can do yourself, what is better avoided and in which cases you should see a dentist as soon as possible.
Author: Albert Baranov, Implant surgeon What you can do before your appointment
- Gently clean your teeth and between them — sometimes trapped food is what makes the discomfort worse.
- Rinse your mouth with water at a comfortable temperature.
- If necessary, take the painkiller you usually use, strictly as directed, provided you have no contraindications.
- If there is swelling, you can hold something cold against the outside through a cloth for a short while.
- Book an appointment: a painkiller may ease the symptoms for a time, but it does not remove their cause.
If you have a chronic condition, are pregnant or take other medicines, it is better to check the choice of medication with a doctor or pharmacist. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and paracetamol are among those used to relieve acute toothache temporarily.
What not to do
Don't apply heat
Do not put a heat pad against the painful spot and do not use hot compresses or very hot rinses. Pain, and especially swelling, calls for an examination by a dentist.
Don't hold tablets against the tooth or gum
Painkillers should be taken as directed. There is no need to place a tablet directly on the painful tooth or the gum.
Don't start antibiotics on your own
Antibiotics are not a universal remedy for toothache and in most cases do not replace dental treatment. Whether antibiotics are needed is decided by the dentist, based on the diagnosis and any signs that the infection is spreading.
When you need urgent help
Do not put off seeking medical help if the pain comes with pronounced or rapidly increasing swelling of the face or neck, a fever and a general deterioration in how you feel.
It is especially important to seek help immediately if, along with the swelling, swallowing or breathing becomes difficult.
If the pain went away on its own
Pain going away does not always mean the problem has gone. With some conditions the symptoms really can subside for a while even though the underlying process continues.
So if a tooth was hurting badly and then the pain suddenly stopped, it is still worth seeing a dentist. They will examine you and, if needed, take an X-ray to establish the cause and the state of the tooth.
This article is for information only and does not replace an examination. With acute pain, swelling or a fever, contact a dentist; if breathing or swallowing becomes difficult, call the emergency services.
Articles explain the general picture; the decision is always individual. Come in for a consultation — the dentist will examine you, take a scan and explain the options with an estimate.
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