Toothaches aren’t just bothersome – they can also be a symptom that you’re developing a larger oral health issue. While scheduling an appointment with your dentist is the first step you take to treat this problem, you may have to wait a few days to be seen. Alleviate your toothache prior to your dentist appointment using the following four methods.

How to Alleviate Toothaches at Home

1. Use an Ice Pack

Toothaches typically occur because of inflammation in the nerves or gums. A simple remedy to address this inflammation is by placing an ice pack on the afflicted area for at least 20 minutes. If you repeat this as needed, the ice will help to reduce the inflammation and alleviate the pain.

2. Make a Saltwater Rinse 

Another cause of dental pain is bacteria that can cause inflammation and infection. Using a saltwater rinse can help remove the bad bacteria from your mouth, reducing aches and pains. To make this rinse, add two teaspoons of salt to warm water and swish it around to kill any lingering bacteria.

3. Use Clove or Peppermint Oils

Clove and peppermint oils are available at most health food stores and have anesthetic properties that can numb the pain. It is important to get oils that are made for oral use, and only one or two drops should be applied to a cotton ball and then the tooth. If you use too much oil, you may notice some irritation to your soft mouth tissues, so always check with your dentist before trying this remedy.

4. Take Over-the-Counter Medication

When you develop a toothache, your brain receives signals that you are experiencing pain. Using an over-the-counter medication, like ibuprofen, can redirect these signals, easing your pain. Never placed crushed up pain medication directly on your tooth as this can cause burns to the mouth tissues, and always follow the recommended dosage amounts.

Toothaches aren’t something you should ignore, which is why families in Fort Wright, KY, and surrounding communities trust the dentists at Tri-State Dental Care. With emergency appointments available on short notice, these professionals provide a range of solutions you need to care for your oral health, from routine cleanings to fillings. To learn more about how to soothe your toothache, visit them online or call (859) 426-2790.