Infection Control Procedures

3 General Dentist Tips on Helping a Toothache

general dentist Swampscott, MA

Need to see a general dentist when suffering from a toothache? Since some toothaches can wait to be treated, there are a few tips dental patients can follow before their appointment. 

About toothaches

Understanding some tips from a general dentist on how to deal with a toothache is a great idea. General dentists are dental professionals who know everything there is to know about treating toothaches, making them the go-to professional for those who are living with a toothache. According to WebMD, a toothache or tooth pain is caused when the nerve in the root of a tooth or the surrounding tooth is irritated. This irritation will eventually lead to one experiencing various levels of discomfort or pain.

Tips from a general dentist

The list below includes three tips that will help those who are suffering from a toothache minimize any discomfort or pain they are experiencing.

#1 – Take something to help minimize the discomfort or pain

For toothache sufferers who are experiencing a great deal of discomfort or pain, there are a few different pain-relieving options they can choose from. One of the more common is taking an over the counter pain reliever, of which there are many options. Other pain-relieving options include using essential oils, with peppermint oil and clove oil being two of the more popular oils to use. Both oils include anti-inflammatory properties and also help to numb the painful area.

#2 – Rinse the mouth to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation

There are a few different options recommended by a general dentist for rinsing the mouth in order to help a toothache. One of the more popular is using a warm salt water rinse. Using about half a teaspoon of salt mixed with about 8 ounces of water is all that is needed and works by killing any bad bacteria in the mouth. Additionally, salt water can be helpful in reducing any inflammation. A close second option is using a hydrogen peroxide rinse. Hydrogen peroxide also helps to kill bacteria in the mouth and can be used to temporarily treat any discomfort or pain associated with toothaches

#3 – Use an ice pack or a cold compress

Cold is used to help constrict the blood vessels in and around the toothache area. Constricting the blood vessels helps to reduce any discomfort or pain associated with toothaches, which is due to the fact that the flow of blood to the area is minimized. Placing coolness on the area also helps to reduce any swelling and inflammation present. General dentists do state that it is important to keep in mind that heat should not be used to address a toothache, as heat can potentially make the problem worse.

Get started with treatment

Ready to make an appointment with a general dentist to address a toothache? There are a few different causes of toothaches, making it a good idea for those suffering to identify the cause, which can be helpful in preventing them in the future. To find out more, reach out today!

Request an appointment here: https://www.bryancousindmd.com or call Cosmetic & Family Dentistry of the North Shore at (781) 443-8268 for an appointment in our Swampscott office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Recent Posts

What To Expect When Getting Digital X-rays From A General Dentist

Everyone should visit the general dentist twice a year. At these visits, the dentist can catch any oral health issues and treat them before they become more serious. During the visits, usually once a year, you will need x-rays to check on the parts of your mouth that your dentist can’t see with the naked…

Get A Broken Tooth Treated To Avoid Complications

Fixing a broken tooth right away is important. This dental damage may seem like nothing more than a cosmetic problem, but it can lead to terrible consequences. Seeing a dentist sooner rather than later can provide immediate relief. If you want to find out the treatments for a broken tooth and its complications, here are…

Recommended Frequency For General Dentistry Visits

General dentistry offices are responsible for the primary dental care of people of all ages. Dentists perform routine care and maintenance to keep your smile healthy and beautiful. The visits also help dentists diagnose dental issues that may not have obvious symptoms yet. Many people wonder how often they should see their dentist. The answer…

Live Without Worry About Your Oral Health

A general dentist can help decrease the risk of dental infection, helping you have a better weekend.Are you in need of a dental checkup? Has it been more than six months since your last appointment? Then visit our general dentist office for the treatment and professional cleaning you need. Along with checking for signs of…

Recent Posts

Oral Hygiene Basics: How To Lower The Risk For Tooth Decay

Oral Hygiene Basics: How To Lower The Risk For Tooth Decay

Tooth decay happens when the enamel, or tooth surface, is damaged. You can use oral hygiene basics to prevent it. However, tooth decay is still one of the most common health problems in the world. The CDC reports that in the United States alone, more than 90% of adults have had cavities.Everyone has bacteria in…

Oral Hygiene Basics: Choosing The Right Toothbrush

Oral Hygiene Basics: Choosing The Right Toothbrush

Everyone learns oral hygiene basics when they are young, but some details get lost over time. For example, many adults are confused about what type of toothbrush to use. This simple tool comes in many different forms, including a variety of sizes and a range of bristle textures. You may wonder why there are so…