Common causes of toothache include tooth decay, dental abscesses, cracked teeth, loose fillings, gum infections, and problems with braces. Call your dentist immediately if your toothache that lasts longer than 2 days or if it is accompanied by symptoms such as fever, redness and swelling of the gums, discharge that smells or tastes bad, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or pain when you bite down. [2] X Research source
Don’t use NSAIDs if you are pregnant or if you have a bleeding disorder. Talk to your doctor or dentist if you have any health concerns, and let them know if you are currently taking any other medications. [4] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source If your dental pain is severe, talk to your doctor or dentist about using NSAIDs together with acetaminophen (Tylenol) for more effective pain relief. [5] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Don’t use aspirin if you are younger than 18 or if you are experiencing any bleeding from your mouth or gums. [6] X Research source Because of potentially severe side effects, many dentists no longer recommend using topical benzocaine products (such as Anbesol or Orajel) to treat toothaches. Never give any medication containing benzocaine to a child under 2 years old. [7] X Research source
Stir 1 teaspoon (6 g) of salt into about 100 millilitres (0. 42 c) of warm water until the salt is completely dissolved. Swish the saltwater solution in your mouth for at least 1 minute, focusing your attention on the painful area. Spit out the solution when you are done. Some dentists recommend swishing ice water instead, since the cold can soothe your pain and reduce inflammation. [9] X Research source
Always keep a thin layer of cloth between the ice and your skin to avoid ice burns. Avoid using a heat source, such as a warm compress, to soothe your aching jaw. Heat may make your inflammation worse. [11] X Research source
Carefully guide the floss around the contours of your teeth. Work the floss between your teeth using a rocking or sawing motion so that it does not snap up abruptly and damage your gums.
If possible, try to sleep sitting up slightly (e. g. , in a recliner or propped up on a bed lounger).
Acidic foods and drinks, such as citrus fruits, fruit juices, and carbonated beverages, can also irritate your teeth and cause decay.
In addition to doing a visual exam and cleaning, your dentist may wish to take X-rays to spot cavities and other problems that aren’t easy to see with the naked eye.
If you experience tooth pain that lasts for more than 30 seconds after eating hot or cold foods, see your dentist right away. This may be a sign that the pulp of your tooth is exposed or damaged. [17] X Research source If your teeth are sensitive to hot or cold, try using a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth. Brush your teeth with a soft-bristle brush, and make sure to use an up-and-down rather than side-to-side brushing motion to avoid damaging exposed roots. [18] X Research source
Hard candies are especially dangerous to your teeth—not only can they chip your enamel, but the chewed-up candy can cling to your teeth and contribute to decay. [19] X Research source
Dental corrections (such as caps or crowns) to fix teeth that have been damaged by grinding. Stress relief techniques to minimize tension that may be contributing to your tooth grinding behaviors. Medications to relax the muscles in your jaw or to relieve symptoms of stress and anxiety.
