First aid for tooth ache
Toothache first aid can reduce irritation temporarily, but only dental treatment can address decay, pulp inflammation, infection, or a fracture.
The short answer
For toothache, rinse gently, remove trapped food, use directed pain relief if suitable, and arrange dental care to treat the cause.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
Pain may come from enamel decay, inflamed dentine, an irritated pulp, a cracked tooth, gum infection, or trauma to supporting tissues.
What can you do next?
Rinse with lukewarm water, clean gently around the tooth, eat soft foods, avoid extreme temperatures, and use pain medicine only according to its instructions. Never put aspirin, alcohol, or caustic products on the gum.
When should you seek dental care?
Seek prompt care for persistent or severe pain, swelling, fever, pus, pain on biting, a broken tooth, or a knocked-out tooth. Breathing or swallowing difficulty requires emergency help.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether the pulp is healthy, whether an X-ray is needed, and whether filling, crown, root canal treatment, drainage, or removal is appropriate.
Frequently asked questions
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