What is the Fastest Way to Relieve a Toothache?

Toothache Dentists in Plymouth MI There’s never a good time to have a toothache. If you have a toothache that won’t subside, call one of our emergency dentists as soon as possible. Depending on your situation, a small cavity or abscess tooth could be the source of your dental pain. While you wait for emergency dental care, try out our toothache home remedies. We hope they relieve some of the pain.

Floss Your Teeth

While it may sound weird, flossing can sometimes relieve a mild toothache. The reason being that sometimes small pieces of food get caught between teeth. If you dislodge a piece of food that’s been stuck for awhile, your gums may bleed a little. This is normal. Call one of our emergency dentists if your toothache persists or worsens.

Swish with Warm Salty Water

Swish with warm salty water to loosen any small pieces of food caught between your teeth. Salt water rinse can also help disinfect and heal wounds in your mouth. To make a salt water rinse, mix 1/2 teaspoon salt with a glass of warm water. You’ll then want to swish the mixture around in your mouth and spit it out when you’re done. Don’t swallow it.

Apply a Cold Compress

Holding a cold compress up to your cheek can help you numb a toothache. The coldness of the compact makes the blood vessels underneath constrict. With less blood circulation, you’ll experience less dental pain.

If you don’t have a cold compress, a frozen bag of peas or corn works in a pinch. If you’re using frozen vegetables, wrap a kitchen towel around the bag to protect your skin. You should also never apply a cold compress for more than 15 to 20 minutes.

Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

It’s best that you don’t take over-the-counter pain relievers for an extended period of time. Yet, they can help you for a few days until you’re able to see one of our emergency dentists. If you’re unsure what medications to use, call our office. We’ll be more than happy to help you choose the right options.

Apply Peppermint Tea Bags

Apply a wet, used peppermint tea bag right next to the tooth that hurts. (The tea bag should only be a little warm, not hot.) Over the course of 20 minutes, the peppermint will help numb and soothe your tooth.

Call our Emergency Dentists

A toothache is your body’s way of letting you know something is wrong. If your tooth pain persists, call our office as soon as possible to schedule an appointment. Our dentists are available when you need them most. That way, you’re able to receive emergency dental care as soon as possible.

The sooner you call our office, the sooner you’ll be able to find toothache relief. While our home remedies are helpful, they don’t address the underlying cause of your pain. During your appointment, one of our emergency dentists will examine your teeth and gums. They may also take x-rays to diagnose the source of your tooth pain.