Ibuprofen not working for toothache

If ibuprofen is not relieving tooth pain, the cause may need dental treatment rather than stronger self-medication.

Pain that persists despite the medicine is a reason to arrange a dental assessment, especially if it is spontaneous, throbbing, or worsens when lying down.

Ibuprofen is an anti-inflammatory pain medicine. Tooth pain can continue when bacteria have reached the pulp, pressure has built around the root, or exposed dentine is being stimulated by temperature.

The diagnosis may be pulp inflammation, an apical infection, a fracture, or another source. Each requires a different clinical step, such as a filling, root canal treatment, drainage, extraction, or gum care.

Use medicines only as directed on their label or by a clinician, and do not take extra doses because the first dose did not help. Avoid ibuprofen unless a healthcare professional has confirmed it is suitable if you have a history of stomach ulcer or bleeding, kidney disease, certain heart conditions, are taking interacting medicines, or are pregnant.

Keep the area clean, choose softer foods, and avoid very hot, cold, sweet, or hard foods that trigger the tooth. Do not place aspirin or concentrated substances directly on the gum.

Seek urgent dental care for facial swelling, fever, difficulty swallowing or breathing, spreading redness, pus, or inability to open the mouth normally. A dental infection can extend beyond the tooth and may require prompt treatment.

If pain is severe, rapidly worsening, follows an injury, or prevents sleep or eating, contact an urgent dental service rather than repeatedly increasing pain medicine.

Ask which tooth or tissue is causing the pain and whether testing or an X-ray is needed. Ask whether the problem is decay, pulp inflammation, a crack, gum disease, or an abscess.

Ask what treatment will remove the cause, which pain medicines fit your medical history, and what symptoms should send you to emergency care.