Like a headache, you might immediately turn to an over-the-counter pain reliever when a toothache strikes. In some cases, it may offer some reprieve, but for chronic toothaches, alleviating the pain may not always be so simple. If you have a persistent toothache, then you may not permanently get rid of it until you visit your dentist and seek appropriate treatment. Until then, however, you may be able to find temporarily with one or a few of these home remedies.  

Temporary Toothache Relief

Rinse and floss

Sometimes, tooth sensitivity can result from something being caught between your teeth. Carefully rinse your mouth and floss carefully between all of your teeth to determine if that’s the case. Flossing will dislodge the obstruction and remove the pressure that’s causing your toothache.

Check for a crack

Accidental trauma isn’t the only way for your tooth to become cracked. If you grind your teeth often, for instance, then a tooth might crack without you realizing it. Check your teeth in front of a mirror under ample light to see if you can spot a crack or fracture. Even if you don’t see it, schedule a visit with your dentist for a more thorough examination, just in case.

Use an ice pack

Apply an ice pack or cold compress to the side of your cheek where your tooth hurts. The cold will help numb the area and alleviate the pain. If swelling occurs around the tooth, then the cold will also help reduce it and the resulting discomfort.

Permanent Toothache Relief through Dental Treatment

In most cases, home remedies are only temporary solutions for a toothache. To find permanent relief, and to prevent your toothache from getting worse, you may need professional treatment from your dentist. To learn more, schedule a consultation by calling Cedar Dental in Cedar Rapids, IA, today at (319) 364-7108. We also welcome patients from Mount Vernon, Iowa City, Hiawatha, and all nearby communities.