8 Methods to Help With Dental Pain

Dental pain can be a real nuisance, disrupting your daily activities and keeping you up at night. It can stem from various issues, such as cavities, gum disease, impacted teeth, or even just a piece of food lodged in the wrong place. While it's essential to see a dentist for a proper diagnosis and treatment, there are several methods you can try at home to alleviate the pain. However, it's crucial to remember that if your pain worsens or becomes unbearable, you should immediately seek help from your dental provider or an emergency dentist in Modesto.

1. Cold Compress

A cold compress or an ice pack can help numb the pain, especially if the discomfort is due to a trauma or a swollen face. Just wrap ice in a thin cloth and apply it to the affected area for 15 minutes every hour. 

• It can reduce swelling and inflammation
• It can numb the area, providing temporary relief

However, do not apply ice directly to your skin or gums as it can cause tissue damage.

2. Over-the-counter Pain Relievers

Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can provide temporary relief for dental pain. 

• They can reduce inflammation and pain
• They are readily available at most pharmacies

However, they should not be used as a long-term solution, and you should always follow the recommended dosage on the packaging.

3. Salt Water Rinse

A salt water rinse can help soothe a toothache by removing any food particles stuck in your teeth and promoting healing.

• It can kill harmful bacteria and promote healing
• It is a natural disinfectant

Just dissolve half a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water and use it as a mouthwash.

4. Clove Oil

Clove oil has been used for centuries to alleviate toothaches due to its natural analgesic and antibacterial properties.

• It can numb the area and reduce pain
• It can kill harmful bacteria

Just dab a small amount on a cotton ball and apply it to the affected area.

5. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Maintaining good oral hygiene can prevent dental problems that cause pain.

• Brush your teeth twice a day
• Floss daily
• Use a mouthwash regularly

6. Peppermint Tea Bags

Peppermint tea bags can be used as a natural remedy for dental pain due to their numbing properties.

• They contain menthol, which has a mild numbing effect
• The warmth can help soothe the affected area
• Apply a cooled, used peppermint tea bag to the painful area for several minutes.

7. Garlic

Garlic has been used for centuries as a natural pain reliever and has antimicrobial properties.

• It contains allicin, which has antibacterial effects
• It can help reduce pain and inflammation
• Crush a clove of garlic into a paste and apply it to the affected area. Alternatively, you can chew a clove of garlic on the side of your mouth where the pain is located.

8. Elevate Your Head While Sleeping

Elevating your head while sleeping can help reduce blood flow to the affected area, potentially alleviating pain and swelling.

• It can help reduce pressure in the mouth and head
• It may improve sleep quality when dealing with dental pain
• Use an extra pillow to prop up your head while sleeping.

Need Dental Care in Modesto?

If your dental pain persists or worsens, don't hesitate to reach out to us at Downey Park Family Dentistry. Dr. Corey Acree and our dedicated team are here to provide the highest quality dental care. Call us at (209) 529-0674 or request an appointment online. We're here to help you maintain a healthy, pain-free smile.