Tooth pain: what to do before your appointment

Toothache is a signal, not a diagnosis. The cause might be decay, a cracked tooth, an infection, or the gum around a wisdom tooth, and only an examination can tell which. Pain that goes away is not always a problem that has gone away.

Until you can be seen, these steps are safe for most people.

Safe first steps

• Rinse your mouth gently with warm water mixed with a little salt.
• Keep the area clean. Brush gently, and if food is stuck, remove it carefully with dental floss.
• Avoid very hot, very cold and sweet food and drinks on that side, and chew on the other side.
• If there is swelling, a cold pack on the outside of the cheek for a few minutes at a time can ease it.

What not to do

• Do not put a tablet directly on the tooth or gum. It can burn the gum.
• Do not take pain medicine without checking what is safe for you. Ask a doctor or pharmacist, especially if you are pregnant, take other medicines, or have a medical condition.
• Do not cancel your visit because the pain has eased. A tooth infection can settle and then flare up again.

Get help the same day if

• swelling is spreading to your face, eye or neck
• you have a fever along with the tooth pain
• you find it hard to swallow, breathe or open your mouth

These can be signs of a spreading infection. Contact us straight away. If you cannot reach us, go to the nearest hospital emergency department.

Booking

When you book, tell us which tooth hurts and since when. It helps us plan your visit. Dental treatment is available at both our clinics, in Sayan and on Chhaprabhatha-Variyav Road. Book an appointment, or ask us on WhatsApp using the button below.