How to Relieve Toothache Pain at Home Until You See a Dentist

How to Deal with Severe Toothache Pain

At Mount Pleasant Dental Centre, we advise our patients to try these methods of dealing with toothache pain:

• Soft Diet – Stick to soft foods that are gentler on your teeth to avoid increasing the pain.
• Avoid Chewing on the Sore Area – Minimise pressure on the affected tooth to prevent further discomfort.
• Pain Killers – Over-the-counter pain relievers may provide temporary relief. Combining paracetamol and ibuprofen can also give more relief. Always follow the instructions on the package regarding recommended dosage and intervals for the best response. If you have any questions, speak to a pharmacist.
• Rinsing with Salt Water – Gently rinsing your mouth with warm salt water helps reduce inflammation and dislodge debris stuck between the teeth.
• Visit a 24-Hour Chemist – Some pharmacies are open 24 hours, and the pharmacist may be able to recommend something else to assist with pain management, such as ‘Oral-Eze.’

Until you make it to our office, you can try home remedies and natural solutions to help with your discomfort. For example, you can apply clove oil to the affected area to temporarily numb the pain or use a heat pack or cold compress over the painful area to provide soothing relief.

Special Considerations with Toothaches

Toothaches in Children

Recognising toothache symptoms in children—especially those who may not be able to verbalise the problem—is crucial for quick intervention. Watch for signs such as reluctance to eat, fever, trouble sleeping, and sore, tender jaws. Toothaches in children may stem from tooth decay (caries), teething pain, gum problems, or trauma.

Scheduling regular dental check-ups helps detect and address issues early. Encouraging good oral hygiene practices like brushing, flossing, and limiting sugary foods is also helpful. If your child complains of toothache or shows symptoms, seek dental care promptly.

Toothaches During Pregnancy

For expectant mothers dealing with toothaches, it’s essential to consider safe pain relief methods while also seeking professional dental treatment to prevent the spread of infection. Always consult with your dentist or healthcare provider before taking any medication. Paracetamol (Panadol) is generally considered safe during pregnancy for managing toothache pain.