Managing Toothaches

A toothache can be caused by tooth decay, gingivitis, a dental abscess, a cracked tooth or a broken filling. It is important to visit a dentist, especially if it the pain does not subside in 2 days or if you also develop a fever.

In the mean time however, you may take the following actions to reduce the pain:

Action#1 – Rinse your mouth with salt water or an antiseptic mouth wash

• Rinsing with either can remove bacteria from the infected area

Action#2 – Watch what you eat

• Eat soft foods like yoghurt or scrambled eggs to avoid chewing with the sore tooth
• Avoid eating very hot or very cold foods as it may worsen the pain

Action#3 – Apply an oral gel: Choline salicylate

• Can be purchased over the counter
• Classified as an anti-inflammatory gel – can be used to reduce pain and swelling
• Use a clean finger to apply the gel every 3 hours if necessary
• Not suitable if for those with a medication allergy to Aspirin

Action#4 – Take an oral painkiller: Paracetamol

• Can be purchased over the counter
• Not suitable for those with liver failure
• Do not exceed the maximum dosage
• Not suitable if for those with a medication allergy to Paracetamol

Action#5 – Take an oral painkiller: Ibuprofen or Mefenamic Acid

• Can be purchased through a pharmacist at a pharmacy
• Ibuprofen is classified as an NSAID (Non-Steroid-Anti-Inflammatory Drug)
• Not suitable for those with a medication allergy towards Aspirin and NSAIDs
• Not suitable for those with kidney failure, heart failure, or those with a recent stroke or heart attack
• Not suitable for those with gastritis – the pharmacist may advice you to take it after food or with an antacid
• Not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women