Feb 09, 2026

National Toothache Day: What to do if you have Tooth Pain (Before you can see a Dentist)

OHDP Team

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Toothache can be miserable. It can affect your sleep, your mood, your ability to eat, and sometimes even your confidence to speak or smile.
 
On National Toothache Day, we want to share practical, safe advice to help you manage tooth pain at home until you can get in to see us — and importantly, how to recognise the signs that need urgent dental attention.
 
First: Why Do Toothaches Happen?
Toothache is usually a sign that something needs attention, such as:
• Tooth decay (a cavity).
• A cracked tooth or broken filling.
• Gum infection or gum disease.
• A dental abscess (infection).
• Wisdom tooth pain.
• Sensitivity from worn enamel or exposed roots.
• Teeth grinding (especially at night).
 
Even if the pain settles, the underlying problem often remains — so it’s always worth getting checked.
 
What You Can Do At Home (Safe, Evidence-Based Advice)
 
1) Take Pain Relief Properly (This Helps Most People).
For many toothaches, the most effective short-term relief is anti-inflammatory pain relief.
• Ibuprofen can reduce inflammation and pain (if safe for you).
• Paracetamol can be taken alongside ibuprofen for stronger relief.
 
Always follow the instructions on the packet and do not exceed the maximum daily dose.
If you have asthma, stomach ulcers, kidney problems, are pregnant, or take blood thinners — ibuprofen may not be suitable. Ask a pharmacist if unsure.
 
2) Rinse With Warm Salt Water
This is simple but surprisingly effective.
 
Mix:
• 1 teaspoon of salt.
• Into a glass of warm water.
 
Swish gently for 30 seconds, then spit out.
 
This can help:
• reduce bacteria.
• calm irritated gums.
• soothe inflammation.
 
3) Keep the Area Clean (Even If It Hurts).
If the toothache is caused by trapped food or gum inflammation, cleaning can make a big difference.
 
Try:
• gentle brushing with a soft toothbrush.
• cleaning between teeth with floss or interdental brushes.
• rinsing after meals.
 
Many people avoid brushing the sore area, but this can make symptoms worse.
 
4) Cold Compress for Swelling
If you have swelling in your cheek or jaw, apply:
• a cold pack (or wrapped frozen peas).
• for 10–15 minutes.
• on the outside of the face.
 
This can reduce swelling and dull pain.
 
5) Avoid Making It Worse
Until you’re seen, try to avoid:
• chewing on the painful side.
• very hot or very cold drinks.
• sugary snacks (these can trigger pain in decayed teeth).
• hard foods (can worsen cracks).
 
If your pain is sharp when biting down, stick to soft foods.
 
What NOT To Do (Important)
 
Some home remedies online can actually cause harm.
 
Do not put aspirin directly on the tooth or gums.
This can burn the tissue and make things worse.
 
Do not use clove oil directly on gums.
Clove oil can irritate and even damage soft tissue if used incorrectly.
 
Do not ignore swelling
Swelling can be a sign of infection and may worsen quickly.
 
Do not rely on antibiotics alone.
Tooth infections usually need the cause treated (for example: drainage, root canal treatment, or extraction). Antibiotics alone often only give temporary relief.
 
When Is Toothache an Emergency?
 
Please seek urgent help if you have:
• swelling of the face, jaw, or neck.
• difficulty swallowing or breathing.
• fever or feeling unwell.
• pus, a bad taste, or a “pimple” on the gum.
• severe pain that is getting worse quickly.
• inability to open your mouth properly.
• swelling around the eye.
 
These symptoms can indicate spreading infection and should not be left.
 
Toothache Relief Is Temporary — The Cause Still Needs Treating.
 
Even if painkillers and rinses help, toothache is usually your body’s way of saying something isn’t right.
 
The sooner it’s checked, the more likely we can treat it simply — and help you avoid worsening pain, infection, or a more complex procedure.
 
Need Help? We’re Here.
 
If you’re experiencing toothache, please contact Oswyn House Dental Practice and we’ll advise you on the next steps and the soonest available appointment.
 

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