Instant relief for toothache at home

Home measures can reduce toothache briefly, but lasting relief requires treatment of the tooth or gum source.

Inflamed pulp, root-supporting tissues, gums, erupting teeth, and trauma can produce toothache with different triggers.

Rinse gently, remove trapped food, avoid triggers, keep your head raised when resting, and use an appropriate pain reliever as directed.

Recurrent pain, swelling, pus, fever, broken teeth, or difficulty opening the mouth needs prompt care; breathing or swallowing trouble is an emergency.

Ask which tissue is involved and what treatment removes the cause.