Over the counter meds for toothache
Over-the-counter pain medicine may reduce toothache temporarily, but the choice depends on medical conditions, medicines and the cause.
The short answer
Over-the-counter pain relievers can temporarily reduce toothache, but they do not treat decay, infection, a crack or gum disease causing it.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
Common non-prescription options include an anti-inflammatory pain reliever and acetaminophen, but each has different interactions and organ risks. Read the local label, use only the stated dose and avoid taking duplicate products with the same ingredient.
What can you do next?
Check with a pharmacist before taking medicine if you are pregnant, have stomach ulcers, kidney or liver disease, take blood thinners or have an allergy. Rinse gently, keep the area clean and avoid placing aspirin or chemicals on the gum.
When should you seek dental care?
Book a dental examination for toothache that persists, returns or worsens. Seek urgent care for facial swelling, fever, pus, a broken tooth, uncontrolled bleeding or difficulty breathing or swallowing.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether the pain comes from decay, pulp inflammation, a crack, gum tissue or an impacted tooth. Ask what treatment removes the cause and which pain medicine fits your medical history.
Frequently asked questions
Can painkillers cure a tooth infection?
No; they may reduce pain while the dentist treats the infected tooth or surrounding tissue.
Can I put aspirin on a painful tooth?
No; aspirin held against the gum can irritate or burn the tissue, so use medicines only as directed for swallowing.