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5 Effective Ways for Reducing Toothache Pain Until You Can Contact a Peterborough Emergency Dentist

It would be nice if toothaches always waited to occur until convenient times, like normal office hours, but of course that’s not how things work. Toothaches can strike at any time, even when it’s inconvenient to go to the dentist. There are emergency dentist services in Peterborough, but even then, sometimes you’re in a situation where you just can’t make it to the dentist immediately.

So, for those times when someone in your family needs to get to a dentist but just not right now, we have some suggestions for dealing with toothaches and other tooth pain at home.

What to Do If You Have a Sore Tooth on The Weekend

  1. Over the counter painkillers

Most non-steroidal anti-inflammation drugs (NSAIDs) you can find over the counter will help reduce tooth pain, such as Ibuprofen (Advil), Acetaminophen (Tylenol), or Naproxen (Aleve). However, it is extremely important to follow the label in regards to dosage, especially if you’re taking Tylenol.  

If you have a toothache that’s bad enough that even a maximum dosage of OTC painkillers doesn’t help, that’s a major red flag you need to see a dentist ASAP even if it means making an emergency call.

  1. Clove oil

For centuries, clove oil has been used as a numbing agent, especially in the mouth. Some studies have suggested it’s nearly as effective as benzocaine and other chemical numbing agents. Clove oil is particularly good for gum pain. Just rub a bit onto the affected area, either with your finger or with a cotton swab.

Peppermint oil can also be effective, if you don’t have clove oil.

  1. Ginger or garlic

Fresh ginger and garlic contain oils which have both numbing and anti-inflammatory properties. Garlic oil may also be somewhat antiseptic. Usage is simple – just chew a small piece.

  1. Ice

If you are experiencing swelling in your face, such as from an abscessed tooth, plain ice is generally the best alternative for keeping the swelling down. Remember, never use ice directly on skin – always wrap it in a cloth or paper towel, which you can also use to control how cold it feels.

Use of chemical cold rubs can also be effective, but they’re harder to control.

  1. Hydrogen peroxide mouth rinse

In many cases, toothaches and gum pain are being caused by an infection, so attacking them directly with an antiseptic agent like hydrogen peroxide can sometimes do a lot of good. Remember: do not swallow hydrogen peroxide. Just swirl it around the affected area, and spit it out.

Standard mouthwash can also work, but the alcohol can be painful.

Remember to See a Peterborough Dentist ASAP!

Tooth problems never go away on their own. Even if the pain fades for a while, it’s guaranteed to return because there is still an underlying cause which will only get worse until a dentist looks at it. Should you ever need a Peterborough emergency dentist, please do not hesitate to contact the team at Dr. Christopher Moore & Associates at 705-748-8599.

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