How to Relieve Tooth Pain Until You Can See a Dentist
Tooth pain has a sneaky way of showing up at the worst possible times—late at night, over the weekend, or during a vacation. When that sharp, throbbing, or aching pain hits and you can't get to the dentist right away, knowing how to manage it at home can make all the difference.
At Modern Dentistry of New England, we understand how uncomfortable and disruptive dental pain can be. While the best course of action is always to schedule a professional dental visit, here are some safe and effective ways to relieve tooth pain temporarily until you can get expert care.
1. Rinse with Warm Salt Water
A warm saltwater rinse is a simple yet powerful home remedy. Saltwater helps reduce inflammation, draws out potential infection, and cleanses the affected area.
How to do it:
Repeat several times a day for relief.
2. Use a Cold Compress
If you’re dealing with swelling or a pulsing sensation, applying a cold compress on the outside of your cheek can reduce inflammation and numb the pain.
Tip from Modern Dentistry of New England: Apply the compress for 15-20 minutes at a time with 20-minute breaks in between.
3. Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Non-prescription medications like ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help manage tooth pain effectively. Always follow the recommended dosage on the label and avoid applying aspirin directly to the gums—it can cause irritation or burns.
4. Clove Oil for Natural Relief
Clove oil has been used for centuries as a natural anesthetic due to its eugenol content, which numbs the area and reduces inflammation.
How to use:
5. Keep Your Head Elevated
Tooth pain often feels worse when you're lying down because increased blood flow can intensify the discomfort. Try sleeping with an extra pillow or sitting up slightly to reduce throbbing at night.
6. Avoid Trigger Foods and Beverages
Stay away from very hot, cold, sugary, or acidic foods and drinks. These can worsen the pain or irritate exposed nerves.
Stick to soft, bland foods until you can visit your dentist.
When to Call the Dentist
If your pain lasts more than 1-2 days, worsens over time, or is accompanied by swelling, fever, or a bad taste in your mouth, it could indicate a more serious issue such as an abscess or deep decay.
That’s when it’s time to call Modern Dentistry of New England. We offer same-day appointments for urgent dental needs and are here to help relieve your pain and treat the root of the problem—fast.
Don’t Suffer Through the Pain — Call Us Today
Temporary relief is helpful, but it’s not a long-term solution. If you’re experiencing tooth pain, let the caring professionals at Modern Dentistry of New England help you get back to feeling your best.
Call us now or book an appointment online to get the expert care you need. Your comfort and oral health are our top priorities, and we're here when you need us most.
Dr. Sherif Gabr, DDS
Hello there! I am Sherif Gabr, and I will be your dentist at Modern Dentistry of New England. At Modern Dentistry of New England, we take pride in making everyone in our practice feel welcomed, valued and respected. When you become a patient at Modern Dentistry of New England, you are not joining a dental practice but also becoming part of our extended family.
