Topical medicine for toothache

Topical toothache products may briefly numb surface tissue, but they do not treat decay, a crack, or an infected pulp.

Tooth pain usually comes from inflamed dentine or dental pulp, a cracked tooth, gum inflammation, or an abscess. A topical gel reaches only superficial tissue, so pain from inside the tooth often returns when its effect fades.

Rinse gently with warm water, remove trapped food with floss, and use an oral pain medicine only as directed on its label and appropriate for you. A dentist may examine the tooth, test pulp response, take radiographs, and restore, drain, or remove the source.

Seek urgent care for facial swelling, fever, difficulty swallowing or breathing, pus, or pain that is severe or worsening. Arrange an examination promptly when pain lasts, recurs, or wakes you from sleep.

Ask whether the pain is from decay, a crack, the pulp, or the gum, and which treatment addresses that cause. Ask which pain medicines are suitable with your health conditions and current medicines.