A toothache can occur for a number of reasons, and pain can range from minor to excruciating. While a dental appointment is essential, you may not be able to get in right away, which is why the staff at Richmond Hill Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Richmond Hill, GA, wants to share a few tips on how to temporarily alleviate pain. These aren’t a substitute for seeing the dentist, but they should lessen the effects until you get in for professional treatment. If you suffer a toothache, try the at-home remedies below.

3 Tips for Relieving a Toothache

1. Ice

A toothache generally comes with a lot of inflammation. The best way to combat this is with ice. Either with a single ice cube or ice pack, rest it against your cheek where the toothache is. The cold will subdue some of the inflammation, and in turn numb out some pain. Do this for 15 minutes, and leave a 15-minute window between icings. If it worsens the pain, it could mean you’re dealing with nerve damage, so stop right away.

2. Pain Relievers

Over-the-counter pain relievers can do wonders for reducing or temporarily eliminating pain. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are two of the most common and should be swallowed, not held against the gums, as it can cause more pain or damage tissue. Take the recommended amount on the bottle and speak with your dentist’s office to see if they have any advice until your appointment.

3. Go Organic

A variety of vegetables and oils can do wonders for reducing inflammation and providing pain relief. There are a variety to try — clove oil and oregano oil can help with pain; ginger, olive oil, and tea can help with swelling; and tea tree oil can numb the area. Just be careful with dosing and make sure to avoid anything you may be allergic to.

A little at-home care for a toothache can go a long way, so try these tips leading up to your appointment with a dentist at Richmond Hill Family & Cosmetic Dentistry. They offer comprehensive general and cosmetic dentistry services, and a family dentist will work closely with you to ensure you maintain a healthy mouth. Call (912) 756-3880 today to schedule an appointment, and visit their website and Facebook page to learn more about their practice.