What does fact checked mean?
At Healthfully, we strive to deliver objective content that is accurate and up-to-date. Our team periodically reviews articles in order to ensure content quality. The sources cited below consist of evidence from peer-reviewed journals, prominent medical organizations, academic associations, and government data.
The information contained on this site is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for the advice of a professional health care provider. Please check with the appropriate physician regarding health questions and concerns. Although we strive to deliver accurate and up-to-date information, no guarantee to that effect is made.
How to Stop a Toothache Immediately
Tooth decay and infections can bring on a toothache 1. And while many people visit their dentist to find the cause of tooth pain, they also seek ways to receive immediate relief until their appointment. Several techniques can help remedy tooth pain quickly. Employ a few methods to stop the ache until you're able to see a dentist.
Dislodge food stuck between the teeth. A toothache may develop after eating due to food being stuck between the teeth. Floss after meals to remove food that causes irritation and stop a toothache.
Can You Drink Beer With Abscessed Tooth?
Learn More
Dissolve a pain reliever tablet in your mouth. Take an ibuprofen or aspirin with water to immediately dull pain from a toothache. Take medications as directed. Do not place medications directly on the tooth.
Numb pain with an antiseptic. Receive immediate relief from a toothache by dabbing oral antiseptic on a cotton swab, and then dabbing the cotton swab on the irritated tooth.
Relief From Wisdom Tooth Pain
Learn More
Use ice. If antiseptic isn't available, place a ice cube wrapped in a cloth against the cheek closest to the toothache to help numb the pain and dull the ache. Remove the ice after 15 minutes and repeat up to four times a day.
Related Articles
References
- Mayo Clinic: Toothache First Aid
- Sanders JL, Houck RC. Dental Abscess. [Updated 2019 Jun 30]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2020 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK493149/
- Baatsch B, Zimmer S, Rodrigues recchia D, Büssing A. Complementary and alternative therapies in dentistry and characteristics of dentists who recommend them. Complement Ther Med. 2017;35:64-69.
- Alqareer A, Alyahya A, Andersson L. The effect of clove and benzocaine versus placebo as topical anesthetics. J Dent. 2006;34(10):747-50.
- Marya CM, Satija G, J A, Nagpal R, Kapoor R, Ahmad A. In vitro inhibitory effect of clove essential oil and its two active principles on tooth decalcification by apple juice. Int J Dent. 2012;2012:759618. doi:10.1155/2012/759618
- Kamkar Asl M, Nazariborun A, Hosseini M. Analgesic effect of the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of clove. Avicenna J Phytomed. 2013;3(2):186–192.
- Sisson D, Balmer C. A chemical burn from a garlic poultice applied to the face to treat toothache: a case report. Prim Dent J. 2014;3(1):28-9.
- Bagga S, Thomas BS, Bhat M. Garlic burn as self-inflicted mucosal injury--a case report and review of the literature. Quintessence Int. 2008;39(6):491–494.
- Rostami AM, Brooks JK. Intraoral chemical burn from use of 3% hydrogen peroxide. Gen Dent. 2011;59(6):504–506.
- Alqareer A, Alyahya A, Andersson L. The effect of clove and benzocaine versus placebo as topical anesthetics. J Dent. 2006 Nov;34(10):747-50.
- Baatsch B, Zimmer S, Recchia DR, Büssing A. Complementary and alternative therapies in dentistry and characteristics of dentists who recommend them. Complementary Therapies in Medicine. 2017;35:64-69.
- Sisson D, Balmer C. A Chemical Burn from a Garlic Poultice Applied to the Face to Treat Toothache: A Case Report. Primary Dental Journal. 2014;3(1):28-29.
Writer Bio
Valencia Higuera is a freelance writer from Chesapeake, Virginia. She has contributed content to print publications and online publications such as Sidestep.com, AOL Travel, Work.com and ABC Loan Guide. Higuera primarily works as a personal finance, travel and medical writer. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English/journalism from Old Dominion University.