A toothache is usually a symptom of a serious oral health issue that will require the attention of a dentist. If you can’t get to an emergency dentistry professional right away, however, you can still take some steps to temporarily alleviate your discomfort. Here, the dentists of BridgeView Dental Group in Kodiak, AK, provide their top emergency dentistry tips for tackling toothaches.

When you’re suffering from tooth pain, keep in mind the following tips to ease the pain:

• Address Swelling: In most cases, tooth pain is caused by inflammation. While the causes may vary, addressing the symptom of swelling can make your situation easier until help is available. Apply cold to the area using frozen peas or ice packs. Some dentists also recommend the three-three-three method — take three Advil (600 mg total), three times a day, for three days.
• Rinse With Salt: A homemade salt rinse can soothe swollen tissues, making this solution especially handy if you’re experiencing gum pain. It can also prove handy if you have food lodged in your mouth. Combine warm water with Himalayan or Dead Sea salt until dissolved. Rinse four to five times per day.
• Elevate Your Head: This is especially important while sleeping. Keep your head elevated by stacking several pillows underneath your head when resting. If your head is lying down at the level of your heart, blood supply will move to your head, which in turn increases swelling and pain.
• Seek Professional Help: These tricks can help you tackle tooth pain, but they won’t fix the root cause of your discomfort — which is why it’s important to see a dental professional as soon as possible. Seek emergency dentistry care immediately if you experience tooth pain that persists for more than a day or two, or if you also display symptoms including fever, swollen eyes, or trouble breathing or swallowing.

If you are in need of reliable dental care in Kodiak, look to BridgeView Dental Group. From periodontal disease treatments to teeth implants, these professionals use advanced dental technology to provide an array of services. To make an appointment, visit their website or call (907) 486-3257. You can also connect with the staff on Facebook.