A toothache could affect you at any minute without much warning. It’s very uncomfortable when a toothache attacks and you are not expecting it, and the pain can range from a dull ache, to an excruciating throb. In this situation, you will do anything to take the pain away and that typically means going to the dentist. However, with the coronavirus pandemic making things difficult, going to the dentist might not be a possibility. That means that you might have to take care of it yourself.
Keeping that in mind, here are some things you can do to manage a toothache at home:
Rinse With Hydrogen Peroxide- you may have an infection if there’s a foul taste in your mouth and you have a slight fever. Hydrogen peroxide kills bacteria and it should relieve the discomfort. Gargle a 3% solution of hydrogen peroxide in your mouth and spit it out. Rinse your mouth a few times with plain water. Remember that it’s just a stopgap measure until you see the dentist to clear up the source of infection.
Take OTC Medication- ibuprofen or paracetamol are good OTC medications to deal with the pain. It’s effective if you have mild or moderate toothache pain. If pain persists, you shouldn’t take more than the recommended dosage. It is a sign that you need to see the dentist immediately.
Use Ice- very low temperatures could numb your nerves and ease the pain. Place a few ice cubes in a plastic bag and wrap it with thin cloth. Apply it on your cheek for 15 minutes and you may also put an ice cube inside your mouth, directly on the most painful area. This is a very temporary solution, but can be helpful when the pain starts to become unbearable.
Use Antiseptic Mouthwash Product- if you have a toothache, it is crucial to brush your teeth regularly to remove bits of food where bacteria will thrive. However, brushing your teeth won’t kill bacteria in your mouth. Use antiseptic mouthwash after brushing your teeth to kill most of bacteria in your mouth and this could temporarily alleviate infection.
Use Medicated Ointments- medicated ointments may help to reduce pain. Numbing ointments or gels usually contain benzocaine that works effectively to soothe the affected area. However, remember that benzocaine isn’t suitable for younger children.
Rinse With Salt Water- mix salt with water and use it to rinse your mouth. Salt is a good antibacterial agent and it could numb nerves.
Contact Corringham Dental
To learn more ways to manage a toothache at home, contact Corringham Dental today.
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