Allopathic medicine for toothache

Medicines can temporarily reduce toothache, but the cause usually needs dental diagnosis and treatment rather than tablets alone.

The clinical options are pain-relieving medicines such as paracetamol or an anti-inflammatory medicine when suitable for the person. Antibiotics do not remove decay, an inflamed pulp or a cracked tooth, and are reserved for selected infections with systemic or spreading signs.

Follow the label or a clinician's instructions and check for pregnancy, stomach ulcers, kidney disease, liver disease, blood thinners, allergies and medicine interactions before taking a product. Rinse gently with warm water, remove trapped food with floss, and avoid placing aspirin directly on the gum.

Arrange dental care for pain that persists, returns, or is triggered by heat, cold or biting. Seek urgent help for facial swelling, fever, difficulty swallowing or breathing, a swollen floor of the mouth, or inability to open the mouth normally.

Ask whether the pain comes from decay, a cracked tooth, gum disease, an abscess or another source, and what examination or radiograph is needed. Ask which treatment will remove the cause and which pain medicines fit your medical history.