Brushing and flossing twice daily are essential to safeguarding your smile because it removes plaque and bacteria that detract from your dental health. Consistently cleaning your teeth and gums strengthens your enamel and connective tissues to reduce the likelihood of common problems like cavities and gingivitis.
However, there’s no guarantee that you won’t have a dental emergency, like a sudden or persistent toothache, when your provider’s office is closed. Keep reading to learn three at-home ways to find relief while you wait for them to reopen!
Method #1: Elevate Your Head
There are many potential causes for toothaches and some are more severe than others. If your discomfort worsens when you lie down to try to rest, it could be due to an infection. If bacteria penetrate your gums or enamel, they can penetrate the outermost layer to inflame the tender nerves and pulp inside. When you’re positioned horizontally, blood flows to your head and increases fluid buildup, intensifying the unpleasant sensation.
Propping your head up on several pillows can elevate your head at enough of an angle to prevent additional blood from pooling. This can provide just enough relief for you to finally drift off to sleep so you can call the dentist in the morning.
Method #2: Rinse with Salt Water
Did you know that salt acts as a natural disinfectant and anti-inflammatory? If you have cavities, gum disease, or some other injury triggering the throbbing in your mouth, one easy way to ease the ache is by rinsing with a glass of warm saltwater. Try stirring ½ tsp salt into a glass of warm H20 until dissolved. Take a sip and swirl the solution around your mouth, swishing around all your teeth and under your tongue, then spit it out and repeat until the cup is empty.
This removes harmful disease-inducing bacteria to prevent potential problems and draws fluid buildup out of your gums, providing a much-needed reprieve from pain.
Method #3: Apply a Cold Compress
Another effective way to reduce discomfort and inflammation is by pressing an ice pack or other cold compress to the sore side of your face in 15- to 20-minute increments. The below-average temperatures constrict your blood vessels in that area, which reduces swelling and associated tenderness. Be sure to wrap it in a cloth or paper towel and only repeat it ever few hours to avoid frostbite or ice burns.
If you prefer an internal approach, you can try holding ice water in your mouth for several minutes to numb the sharp or throbbing sensation.
Following these tips can help you address the symptoms of your toothache long enough to get some well-deserved rest while waiting for your dental office to open!
About the Practice
At Amberly Dental, you and your family benefit from two dentists dedicated to helping you build and maintain your happiest, healthiest smiles. Dr. Vacek and Dr. Hull share 20+ years of combined experience providing a full array of services to people of all ages. They reserve time for same-day emergency visits and offer multiple forms of sedation so if you have an urgent toothache, you don’t have to wait for relief. Then, they combine a compassionate approach with state-of-the-art equipment to deliver accurate treatment results intended to last. If you’re hurting and need help, you can request an appointment on the website or call (402) 786-2007.