Adults only (18+)

How to Relieve Tooth Pain

Tooth pain can range from a dull, nagging ache to a sharp, intense jolt that makes it difficult to focus on anything else. Whether it starts suddenly or builds gradually, toothache often signals that something is not quite right inside the mouth. It might be caused by a cavity, a cracked tooth, inflamed gums or an underlying infection. While the cause should be identified and treated by a dentist, there are ways to relieve tooth pain at home until professional help is available.

Toothache can feel distressing because of the sensitivity of the area and how much we rely on our mouths for eating, speaking and everyday comfort. It is important not to ignore tooth pain, particularly if it becomes more severe or persistent. Early care and treatment often lead to better outcomes and a quicker return to normal.

Common Causes of Tooth Pain

One of the most frequent causes of tooth pain is tooth decay. When plaque builds up on the teeth and begins to erode the enamel, it can expose the more sensitive inner layers of the tooth, causing pain. Other possible causes include gum disease, abscesses, a cracked or broken tooth, or issues related to dental work such as a loose filling or crown.

Sometimes, the pain is due to teeth grinding, especially during sleep, or pressure from impacted wisdom teeth. In some cases, sinus infections can cause pain that feels like it is coming from the upper teeth due to their proximity to the sinus cavities.

Immediate Relief at Home

While waiting to see a dentist, rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help ease irritation and clean the area. Salt has mild antiseptic properties and can reduce inflammation. Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water, rinse your mouth gently and spit it out. This can be repeated several times a day if needed.

Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek can also provide relief. The cold helps to numb the area and reduce swelling. Use a clean cloth or towel to protect the skin and apply the compress for up to fifteen minutes at a time.

Painkillers and Over-the-Counter Relief

Paracetamol or ibuprofen can help relieve toothache and reduce inflammation. These medicines are generally safe when used as directed and can provide effective short-term relief. If the pain is severe or not responding to over-the-counter medicine, speak to your pharmacist or GP for further advice. There are also topical gels available from pharmacies that can be applied directly to the affected tooth or gum to numb the area temporarily.

It is best to avoid placing aspirin directly on the gum or tooth, as this can cause burns to the soft tissue in the mouth. Stick to medicines designed for oral use or general pain relief.

Avoiding Things That Worsen the Pain

Hot or cold drinks can sometimes make tooth pain worse, especially if the nerves are exposed. Try to avoid very hot soups, tea or ice-cold water while the tooth is sensitive. Sweet, acidic or spicy foods may also trigger discomfort. Chewing on the opposite side of your mouth and eating softer foods can help prevent further irritation while you wait for treatment.

Brushing and flossing should be done gently around the sore area to avoid aggravating the pain. However, keeping the mouth clean remains important to reduce the risk of infection.

When to See a Dentist

You should contact a dentist as soon as possible if your tooth pain lasts more than two days, if it is getting worse or if it is interfering with sleep, eating or daily life. Other warning signs include swelling in the face or jaw, a high temperature, a bad taste in the mouth or pus coming from the gum. These may indicate an abscess or infection, which requires prompt treatment to prevent complications.

Emergency dental care may be needed if the pain is very severe, if your face is swelling rapidly or if you are having difficulty breathing or swallowing.

Addressing the Root Cause

While painkillers and home remedies can provide short-term relief, they do not solve the underlying cause of toothache. Dentists are trained to identify the issue and provide the right treatment, whether that is a filling, root canal, crown or extraction. Left untreated, dental problems can worsen and may lead to further pain or infection.

Preventative dental care, including regular check-ups, thorough brushing, flossing and limiting sugary snacks and drinks, can help avoid future tooth pain.

Emotional and Physical Impact

Persistent tooth pain can affect sleep, concentration and appetite. It may cause stress or anxiety, especially if you are worried about dental treatment or the cost of care. Speaking to your dentist about your concerns can help you feel more in control and supported. Many dental practices offer pain-free treatment options and understand the need to work gently and with care.

Final Thought

Tooth pain is never pleasant, but with the right steps, it can often be managed at home until professional care is available. Simple remedies like saltwater rinses, cold compresses and over-the-counter pain relief can make a real difference. If symptoms do not settle or begin to worsen, seeing a dentist promptly is the best way to protect your health and find lasting relief. A healthy mouth is essential for comfort, confidence and wellbeing, and addressing pain early on is always the right step.