A toothache can hijack your day in minutes. While the best fix happens in a dental chair, smart steps at home can reduce pain and prevent a small issue from becoming a big one. Use this calm, practical guide to get through the next few hours—and know when to call us right away.
First: Identify the Type of Pain
Sharp pain when biting: Could indicate a cracked tooth or high filling.
Lingering ache after hot/cold: Often points to nerve inflammation.
Throbbing with swelling: May be an infection that needs urgent care. Jot down what triggers the pain; those clues speed up diagnosis.
What You Can Do at Home (Short Term)
- Rinse gently with warm salt water to calm irritated tissues.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever as directed (avoid placing aspirin on the tooth—it can burn gum tissue).
- Use a cold compress on the cheek for 10 minutes on, 10 minutes off to reduce swelling.
- Keep the area clean; floss carefully to remove trapped food particles.
- Avoid chewing on the painful side and skip extremely hot, cold, or sugary foods.
When It’s an Emergency (Call Now)
Swelling in the face or jaw, fever, trauma, or a pimple-like bump on the gums are red flags that an infection may be present. Infections don’t improve with time; they spread. If you notice any of these, call us immediately.
Common Culprits Behind Tooth Pain
Deep decay: Bacteria reach the nerve, causing inflammation.
Cracked tooth: Pain on release when biting is classic.
Gum abscess: Localized swelling and tenderness near the gumline.
Sinus pressure: Upper teeth may ache together—especially during allergy season or a cold.
Treatment Paths That Provide Relief
Depending on the cause, we may recommend a filling, crown, deep cleaning, root canal therapy, or extraction. If removal is needed, we’ll discuss replacement options like dental implants or bridges to protect your bite long-term.
Prevention: Your Best Painkiller
Regular checkups catch small cracks and cavities early. Fluoride strengthens enamel and good home care keeps bacteria in check. If you grind at night, a custom nightguard can reduce sensitivity and prevent fractures.
How We Help in Pasadena
We reserve time for urgent needs and offer sedation dentistry for anxious patients. If cost is a concern, ask about our payment options so you can get relief without delay.
To get out of pain fast, call Eversmiles Dental at Call Us Today or Contact Us. We’ll guide you on immediate steps and schedule the earliest possible visit.