Over the counter medicine for toothache
Non-prescription pain relievers can temporarily reduce toothache, but they do not remove decay, a cracked tooth, inflamed pulp, or a dental abscess
The short answer
Non-prescription pain relievers can temporarily reduce toothache, but they do not remove decay, a cracked tooth, inflamed pulp, or a dental abscess.
Where in or around the tooth can toothache begin?
Toothache comes from inflammation or infection in the pulp, periodontal tissues, or surrounding bone. Ibuprofen can reduce inflammatory pain for suitable adults, while paracetamol can provide analgesia; the correct choice depends on age, pregnancy, allergies, stomach or kidney disease, liver disease, anticoagulants, and other medicines.
How can you use toothache medicine safely at home?
Follow the product label and pharmacist advice, never exceed the stated dose, and do not place aspirin or tablets against the gum. Avoid very hot or cold triggers, keep the area clean, and book a dental examination so the cause can be treated.
Which signs mean toothache needs urgent dental care?
Seek urgent dental care for facial swelling, fever, pus, difficulty opening the mouth, swallowing or breathing, or pain that is severe or worsening. A toothache that lasts, wakes you, or returns after medicine needs an examination rather than repeated self-medication.
Which analgesic is suitable with your medicines?
Ask which analgesic is suitable with your medical history and medicines. Ask whether the tooth needs a filling, root canal treatment, drainage, extraction, or treatment of the gum, and what warning signs require emergency care.
Frequently asked questions
Could this be serious?
Seek urgent dental care for facial swelling, fever, pus, difficulty opening the mouth, swallowing or breathing, or pain that is severe or worsening.
What should I avoid?
Follow the product label and pharmacist advice, never exceed the stated dose, and do not place aspirin or tablets against the gum.
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.