Ibuprofen and paracetamol for toothache
Ibuprofen and paracetamol can reduce toothache temporarily, but neither treats the dental cause that needs examination.
The short answer
Ibuprofen reduces inflammation and pain, while paracetamol reduces pain; use medicines only as directed on their labels and arrange dental care for the cause. They may make symptoms easier to manage, but they do not repair decay, a cracked tooth, or an infection.
How do these two pain medicines differ?
Ibuprofen is an anti-inflammatory medicine, whereas paracetamol is an analgesic that does not treat inflammation in the same way. Toothache commonly comes from irritated pulp, exposed dentine, a damaged filling, a crack, or inflamed tissues around a tooth.
What should you check before taking either medicine?
Check the label and your medical history before taking either medicine, especially if you have stomach, kidney, liver, bleeding, allergy, pregnancy, or medicine-interaction concerns. Do not place tablets against the gum, keep the area clean with gentle brushing, and avoid very hot, cold, or sugary triggers.
When should persistent toothache be examined?
Book an examination when pain persists, returns, interrupts sleep, or is triggered by biting or temperature. Seek urgent help for facial swelling, fever, difficulty swallowing or breathing, or swelling extending toward the eye or neck.
What could be causing the toothache?
Ask whether the pain comes from decay, pulp inflammation, a crack, gum disease, or an erupting tooth, and whether an X-ray is needed. Ask which treatment will remove the cause and which pain medicines fit your health conditions.
Frequently asked questions
Can these medicines cure toothache?
No. They can reduce symptoms temporarily, while dental treatment addresses the cause.
Can I take both medicines?
Some people are advised to use both, but the choice depends on the label directions, age, health, and other medicines.
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Who wrote this page
This library is published by Dental Nation, a licensed dental group practising in the United Arab Emirates. Pages are written and overseen by the same clinical team that treats patients in our clinics, and are held to a fixed editorial standard for safety and accuracy.
This page is patient education, not medical advice, and cannot replace an examination. Anything urgent — facial swelling, trauma, uncontrolled bleeding or severe pain — needs a dentist or emergency care now.