Tips For Dealing With Dental Pain

Tooth pain can sometimes come on suddenly, although the main cause may have been brewing for quite some time. Whether the pain comes from outside trauma or from a cavity that finally made its way to a nerve ending, treatment is likely at the forefront of your mind. Learning how to manage the pain until you can get in to see your dentist is vital if you can't get an appointment right away. The following tips can help.

Tip #1: Assess the likely cause

Sometimes the cause is obvious – a filling broke off or a tooth cracked. Other times, the cause may be pure speculation, which is often the case for cavities. An abscess can also be obvious, since there is likely some swelling of the gums and possible pus. All of these require prompt treatment to avoid the need for a root canal or to prevent tooth loss, but the most pressing causes tend to be be broken teeth and abscesses due to the severe risk for infection. If you suspect either of these, it is best to call another dentist if yours can't see you right away.

Tip #2: Cover your wounds

If the problem is a lost filling or a chipped tooth, get some cotton wadding. Place it over the tooth and bite down on it. This can alleviate some of the pain by covering the nerve. Another option is to smooth some dental wax, available at drug stores, over the exposed area.

Tip #3: Try some clove oil

Clove oil can work wonders if the pain is from a cavity or lost filling. Simply place a drop or two on your cotton wadding and place it over the affected tooth. Bite down for a few minutes so the clove oil can do its job and alleviate the pain. No clove oil? Try crushing whole cloves from the spice cabinet in a bit of cooking oil.

Tip #4: Take a pain reliever

Your favorite pain reliever can also help. Aspirin, acetaminophen, and ibuprofen all work well, so take the one that you prefer. Take only the amount directed on the package, even if the pain is severe.

Tip #5: Drown your sorrows in salt

If the issue appears to be an abscess, salt water can help. The salt can help draw out the infection and the pus, which will help alleviate the pain. Dissolve some salt in warm water and swish around your mouth. Repeat every couple of hours, as needed.

Until you can get in to see a dentist, avoid chewing on the affected side of the mouth and be careful when brushing the area. For more information, contact Pike Dentistry or a similar location.

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