A pounding head, throbbing gums and sore and tender mouth are common symptoms of a toothache. If you have these and related symptoms, you should see your dentist ASAP for a complete oral examination to establish the cause of your pain.
Until you can visit a dentist in Northbrook, IL such as glanlakedentalcare.com, try these first aid tips for short-term relief.
Toothaches self-care tips:
1. Clean your mouth.
Mix ½ tablespoon table salt in 8 ounces of warm water and use the mix to rinse your mouth without swallowing the salty water. Also, gently floss your teeth to remove food particles from the aching area.
2. Control swelling with a cool compress.
If your face is swollen, put a cold compress (ice pack) to the outside of your mouth or cheek. The cool compress may help to dull the pain, especially if trauma to the tooth is the cause of your pain.
3. Control pain with OTC pain relievers.
Take an over-the-counter medication, acetaminophen or ibuprofen to dull the pain. Remember, children should not take aspirin (anyone under the age 18 should take acetaminophen). Also, you should never put aspirin or any other pain reliever directly against the gums near the aching tooth. The painkiller can burn your gum tissue.
4. Use OTC anesthetics sparingly.
You can get temporary relief by applying benzocaine-containing antiseptics directly to the irritated tooth and nearby gums. Beware that these numbing gels and liquids are for short-term use only.
5. Use clove oil to numb the area.
Apply some clove oil directly on the sore area. You may also soak a cotton ball in the oil and dab it against the irritated tooth and gums.
You should call your dentist in Northbrook, IL immediately if your toothache is accompanied by fever and you have trouble breathing or swallowing. It’s also important to visit a doctor if you have any pain- whether the pain resolves or not. Even a short-lived toothache can indicate a dental problem that requires medical attention.