Tooth pain is never something you should ignore. The moment you notice it, contact your dentist, as the odds are good it’s a sign of a problem that will grow worse without professional treatment. That’s why the team at Main Street Dental in La Crosse, WI, emphasizes the importance of preventive dentistry, which involves taking steps to address minor issues before they develop into major problems. They would also like to share some tips to help soothe dental pain as you wait for your appointment. If your teeth are hurting, keep these points in mind.

Local Dentist Shares 5 Tips for Dealing With Tooth Pain

1. Try an Ice Pack

Apply a cold compress or ice pack to any area of your mouth where you’re experiencing dental pain. Inflammation exacerbates your discomfort, but cold temperatures will decrease it.

2. Rinse With Salt Water

Mix about half a teaspoon of salt with a cup of water and rinse the affected area. Salt helps kill off the bacteria that is making your pain worse.

3. Take Over-the-Counter Painkillers

Over-the-counter painkillers, when taken according to the directions on the packaging, can help alleviate dental pain. Just make sure you’re only taking the safe, recommended dosage.

4. Avoid Chewing on That Side

As much as possible, avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the pain is most noticeable. Doing so could irritate the tissue.

5. Try Peppermint Tea

Many people find that peppermint tea has a mild numbing effect on dental tissues. Drinking it throughout the day will help to reduce your pain.

While these tips will help, you still need to see a dentist to find out what’s causing your discomfort. That’s why scheduling teeth cleanings at a preventive dentistry clinic every six months is so important. Professionals need to regularly look at your teeth to monitor their condition and spot any early warning signs of a problem. At Main Street Dental, offering five-star dental services to patients throughout the La Crosse, WI, area for more than 30 years, they’ll make sure you get the treatment you need. Visit them online to learn more about becoming a patient, or call (608) 784-4063.