Four Ways to Soothe A Tooth Ache

Experiencing tooth pain can be alarming. It can prevent you from eating your favorite foods, and it can also be painful. Toothache pain can be caused by many different issues, ranging from cavities to gum disease. We recommend following these tips to help ease toothache pain.

• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water

Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help reduce inflammation caused by an infection and can also help soothe an aching tooth. Salt water has antibacterial properties that kill bacteria that cause the infection, and warm water helps keep the swelling down. Mix one teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and rinse the mixture in your mouth for 30 seconds. Don't swallow the solution. Spit it into your sink or toilet to avoid accidentally ingesting too much salt. Repeat twice a day until the infection is gone.

• Use hydrogen peroxide rinse

Hydrogen peroxide rinse is another great way to soothe your toothache. Put one teaspoon of the hydrogen peroxide solution in a cup of warm water and swish it around in your mouth between your teeth for at least one minute. Spit it out and rinse your mouth with warm water to remove any residue. Repeat as needed to relieve pain. (For best results, do not eat or drink for 30 minutes after rinsing with hydrogen peroxide.)

• Apply an ice pack

Applying a cold compress to the jaw can help temporarily alleviate some of the pain associated with an aching tooth. If you don't have an ice pack, simply hold some ice in your mouth until it melts, and then apply the ice directly to the painful area. Hold it there for around five minutes and repeat as needed until the pain subsides. Ice packs alleviate the pain of toothaches by numbing the area and reducing inflammation in the gums. It will also help to reduce any swelling around your teeth and can reduce pain and sensitivity caused by exposed nerves or damage to your gums.

Even though applying an ice pack isn't a permanent fix for toothaches, it can help provide immediate pain relief until you can get to our office to make an appointment for a full examination. Repeat as necessary throughout the day or until you feel relief from your pain.

• Schedule a dental appointment

The best way to ease your toothache is to schedule a dental exam. Your dentist can check for signs of infection and tooth damage, and he or she can treat your pain with medication or a filling. If you have an infection, you may need a root canal treatment. This procedure removes the infected tissue from your tooth's pulp chamber. Then, your dentist will fill and seal the chamber and top it with a dental crown to prevent further issues.

If you're ready to experience the best dental care, please contact the cosmetic dentist in Phoenix, AZ, at (602) 249-2227 or visit us at 1277 E Missouri Ave Ste 217 Phoenix, AZ 85014.