My tooth hurts! Help! How to stop a toothache and get out of dental pain.

My tooth hurts! Help! – How to stop a toothache and get out of dental pain

11/25/2018

The best method to get out of tooth or gum pain while you wait to see the dentist

You may have arrived here because you started having intense aching in your tooth, jaw or ear, can’t even drink cold water without sharp, severe pain, or can’t chew on that side at all. Unfortunately, you may have a toothache or other dental problem!

Of course, the best solution is to see your dentist as soon as possible. While home remedies may help relieve the symptoms, the reason your having pain in the first place is because there’s something that may need treatment. But this advice isn’t all that helpful when you can’t see your dentist right away and the pain is unbearable!

Here I’m sharing the best method to get out of toothaches or gum pain while you wait to see the dentist!

If you live near Upland, Rancho Cucamonga, Chino, or Wildomar, CA you can get the finest dental care from the caring and experienced dentists at Upland Dental Implant and Orthodontics.

The 3-3-3 Method for tooth pain

Tooth or gum pain is largely due to inflammation or swelling. Reduce the swelling and you’ll reduce the pain. The best way to reduce this inflammation in the short-term is with the 3-3-3 method: 3 ibuprofen (600 mg total) 3 times a day for 3 days.

What not to do: Don’t take the ibuprofen and stop once you start to get pain relief. The trick is to keep the ibuprofen levels up to reduce the inflammation. If you stop, then it’ll take a while before the ibuprofen will kick in again.

Please keep in mind that this only treats the symptoms and does nothing to address the root cause of your pain. Also, make sure you can take ibuprofen and it doesn’t interfere with any health condition or medication you are already taking. (Check with your doctor if you aren’t sure.)

Natural toothache relief

If you can’t take ibuprofen or if you need extra relief, there are natural home remedies you can use to reduce the pain.

Keep the area cold: Cold treatment constricts blood vessels helping to reduce swelling and numb pain. If you don’t have a cold pack, frozen peas or a plastic bag with half water and half ice works just as well.

Salt water rinse: Slowly stir in salt into a cup of hot water. Keep adding until you see salt crystals at the bottom that are no longer dissolving. Rinse with this solution for 30 seconds 4-5 times a day to reduce gum inflammation. This is especially helpful if you have gum pain or something stuck between the teeth like a seed.

Clove Oil: This is an essential oil that has been used for decades as a way to calm inflammation. Apply a small amount with a cotton swab to the affected area. This works best if you can directly apply the oil to the affected area like if there is an exposed nerve due to a deep cavity or your pain in your gums.

Pillows: Keep your head elevated. Stack a couple pillows when you sleep to keep your head higher than your heart. Resting totally flat allows blood flow to the head and may make swelling and pain worse.

When making your dental appointment:

DO let them know if you are having any severe pain or facial swelling. It may be critical to diagnose and treat right away to avoid serious health issues.
DO ask the office if there’s anything they recommend to deal with the pain in the meantime.
DO record your pain and what you’ve been doing to alleviate that pain
DON’T put off your appointment as you may be ignoring a problem that needs treatment

Should I go to the emergency room?

Don’t hesitate to go straight to the ER if you have:

Trouble breathing or swallowing due to the swelling
Eyes that are swelling shut
A fever

What is causing the pain?

There are many causes of tooth/gum pain, but here are a few common ones:

Cavity deep into the nerve sometimes needing a root canal treatment
Trauma to the area (dental injury, fracture from biting on something hard, grinding your teeth)
Sinus infection causing pain on upper teeth
Swollen gums from gingivitis or periodontitis
Food getting stuck between your teeth, especially if you have spaces between them

If you are in pain right now, I hope you learned some tips that help and I wish you a speedy recovery!

Blog post by our Endodontist Dr. Rita Hung. Proudly providing great dental care in Upland, Rancho Cucamonga, Chino, and Wildomar.

63 Comments

Zachary Tomlinson link

12/1/2020 10:25:49 pm

I had no idea that if you have tooth cavities that have penetrated deep enough to the nerves of your tooth, it could be the reason why a person is experiencing toothaches. I should share this with my friend who's experiencing dull tooth pain for a while now. This way, he can visit a dentist who can check this for him.

Sandra Lewis

7/22/2021 12:40:47 am

Following the guidlines I found here ( http://cavities.best-cure.info ) I got rid of cavities naturally, my teeth look whiter, gums are pink and less puffy and there has been no more bleeding at all, and my breath is fresher even in the morning.

Char

12/30/2021 09:02:40 am

How did you get rid of cavities naturally?

Sheba Khan

10/11/2022 09:15:52 am

Take two cloves and just put in the mouth where you feel the pain....it work wonders ❤️

Tabatha

1/11/2023 11:43:58 am

Where do I get cloves

James Franklin link

12/20/2020 10:40:39 pm

i have Pain/inflammation in and around the tooth, then i started using the same tips, now the situation is ok, and it is mendatory to visit dentist, home remedy always not working. thanks for the informations.

Nazia Parveen

2/27/2022 10:02:50 am

Hi my name is nazia pls can you help me as I have a very bad thoot pain its been 1 week i am in such a big pain been dentist too but nothing helping

dentist Hamilton link

4/13/2021 11:55:50 pm

Your article is quite helpful! I have so many questions, and you have answered many. Thank you! Such a nice and superb article, we have been looking for this information about dental blog. Great post…

ricky link

7/30/2021 06:41:41 am

Very Informative post. Thanks for sharing your knowledge with us.
<b><a><a href="https://www.drrudy90210.com/" title= "Best Dental Care Beverly Hills">Best Dental Care Beverly Hills</a></b>

Adam Golightly link

8/12/2021 09:51:41 am

My sister has been having a lot of problems with one of her left teeth hurting a lot, and she would really like to make sure that it isn't a serious problem. She would really like to get some help from a professional dentist that can relieve the pain. I'll be sure to tell her that she should record the pain, how she has been dealing with it, and ask the office if there is anything she should do before coming into the office.

Doc Martenz

10/29/2021 04:29:30 pm

Yes, normally for pain i recommend using needles through the gums to alieve swelling and inflammation, sort of like acupuncture.

Rick link

11/2/2021 12:44:32 am

Very Informative post. Thanks for sharing your knowledge with us.
<b><a><a href="https://www.drrudy90210.com/2021/07/28/is-having-sensitive-teeth-a-serious-issue/" title= "Having Sensitive Teeth a Serious Issue">Having Sensitive Teeth a Serious Issue</a></b>

John Carston link

11/23/2021 06:41:34 pm

I like how you mentioned that the best solution for toothache is too see your dentist as soon as possible. My cousin mentioned to me last night that he is having a hard time with his toothache and asked if I have any idea where is the best option to consult for surgery. Thanks to this informative article and I'll be sure to tell him that it will be much better if he consults a trusted dental clinic that specializes in tooth extraction as they can answer all his inquiries and will surely provide good-quality service.

Vivian Black link

1/19/2022 06:33:41 am

Last night I woke up with a toothache that would not let me sleep. I had some signs beforehand, but it always went away. This time it is not going and I am desperate to see a dentist. My appointment isn't for a few days. Thank you for the suggestion to use the 3-3-3 method of using three ibuprofens three times a day for three days to reduced the inflammation. This advice has, so far been great.

Lisa

2/12/2022 04:33:29 pm

I am having pain that will not go away using any pain meds. My appointment is 4 days out. Any other suggestions?
Thank you!

Revenant

2/25/2022 04:54:23 am

Oragel mouth wash helped me

Isra

2/28/2022 06:40:57 am

I have unbearable pain, but an appointment is a week away! I can’t sleep, barely eat, unable to focus on anything. Top it all off, my painkillers (tylenol, motrin, aspirin) have stopped working after only a day or two. As well as trying a cold compress, salt water, wishing upon a star…. nada! I feel like I’ve been sent to hell. Any more advice out there for me, or have I exhausted all efforts? All of the thanks in advance, you’ll be my savior!!

Ryan

3/7/2022 04:32:04 pm

Black tea bags in your mouth will help draw out the pain and infection

Topazolite

3/26/2023 08:38:36 am

Try combining painkillers with antiinflammatories
I.e paracetamol with ibuprofen
Mouthwash with salted water, make sure water not too hot or too cold because of sensitivity
Numb area with ice

Michelle

4/16/2022 08:44:42 pm

Ear infection turned to tooth ache I have bad teeth can't go to dentist anytime soon. Pain is getting worse only thing helping us keeping cold water in my mouth constantly. I need sleep oragel, anbasol, Advil liquid gels, whiskey, heat compress, salt water, nothing is working I can't stand heat on it it makes it worse.i need the nerve to deadend. Sitting upright don't stop the pain either. Also have used peroxide HELP

Richard

5/3/2022 01:17:10 am

HElp it hurt so bad

Peter J Blank, DDS link

6/22/2022 03:58:24 am

Thank you for sharing this helpful article. I really learned a lot from this. This is my first time to know about the 3-3-3 method. Would this also be applicable for pain caused by a chipped tooth?

Victoria Addington link

6/22/2022 04:44:00 am

I didn't know that keeping your head elevated through the use of a pillow can help ease toothache. My friend should know this since her wisdom tooth is giving her sleepless nights. I should also advise her to visit a dentist for wisdom teeth removal.

James link

8/10/2022 04:36:35 pm

I am on my fourth day with tooth pain in my upper right teeth and my nose is a little stuff some times. The pain feels sever but I felt worse tooth pain years ago I have no dentist I called one yesterday and still am waiting for a email but I rinsed my mouth out with salt it dose not help I take a lot of Ibuprofen and it some times helps using something cold makes it hurt more and I have 2 chipped theeth one decayed tooth and one cracked tooth so I’m not sure how bad it is nor can I locate what is wrong with me.

VIMSRC link

8/23/2022 04:02:51 am

An informative post with great tips and tricks. All the techniques are really helpful to prevent tooth decay. Thanks for sharing it.

Charmaine

9/7/2022 01:34:47 am

I have a bad toothache but I'm going to Scotland on holiday for 10 days can't get into a dentist what can I do ease x

Anderson Dental Professionals link

10/3/2022 07:32:16 pm

I've tried these and my tooth still hurts. My appointment is scheduled in 2 days. Any other recommendations for pain relief?

Carmel Dental Care link

10/3/2022 07:51:16 pm

Very helpful blog article. Thank you for this. It's good to know these for emergency purposes. Would this also work for pain caused by a chipped tooth?

Iris Smith link

10/12/2022 12:05:33 am

Thank you for advising me not to use ibuprofen and to quit as soon as pain relief sets in. My daughter is suffering from a toothache. I'll take her to the dentist so that she may receive the best and most appropriate treatment.

Kevin Ross link

12/6/2022 12:58:10 am

Nice article! The last time I experienced intense pain in my tooth and jaw to the point that I can't even drink cold water, I can't help but say oh my god - that's all happening! Good thing there are emergency dental clinics near me, and I was able to avoid serious health issues.

srikanth link

12/20/2022 04:57:39 am

This Blog Is Very Helpful And Informative For This Particular Topic. I Appreciate Your Effort That Has Been Taken To Write This Blog For Us. ear doctor near me, ear clinic near me, hearing doctor near me, ear cleaning clinic, best ear doctor near me, ear cleaning clinic near me, best ear clinic in Hyderabad, ear cleaning doctor near me, earwax removal clinic near me <a href="https://www.carehearingclinics.com"> Best audiologist in Hyderabad </a>

1/9/2023 04:21:40 am

1/12/2023 03:03:54 am

2/17/2023 07:11:07 am

This Blog Is Very Helpful And Informative For This Particular Topic. I Appreciate Your Effort That Has Been Taken To Write This Blog For Us. Ear care centre, ear care near me, ear care medical center, best hearing doctors near me, near by ear clinic, ear check up clinic near me, nearest ear clinic, ear cleaning centre near me <a href="https://www.carehearingclinics.com/p/about-us"> Best audiologist in Hyderabad </a>

Kelly Dobbs

2/27/2023 09:18:33 pm

I had to stop buying the toothpastes and mouthwashes they sell in the store after I found out that most of them contain toxic ingredients that actually ruin your teeth and gums by killing the good bacteria in your mouth.

Now I realize that my dental health was steadily deteriorating the more I kept using all those popular toothpastes that we are all familiar with.

Instead, I'm now chewing this dissolvable tablet that puts back millions of good bacteria into the gums and teeth: https://www.healthwise101.com/dental-tablet-that-heals-teeth-and-gums

And you know what? Since I've been chewing this tablet, my teeth feel amazing and my gums have never looked better. Slowly but surely, I'm turning back years of damage from using all those brand-name dental products that most people use, believing they are helping when the reality couldn't be further from the truth.

Bryan

3/3/2023 12:27:15 pm

Everyone needs to know how scary it is getting out there. When your in pain, your in PAIN. Once you hear pain killer, automatically your saying give it to me I need it bad, cause pain killers in your cabinet do not work" unless you take the hole bottle (pretty much). Someone can easily give you a bad pill without them even knowing it. Fentanyl Asking someone else they know trying to help you out .an Oxycodone Vicodin,Oxy cotton.the stuff that really works, is now laced with fentanyl. At the southern boarder cops seized million pills. 1 of 3 pills had a deadly dose of fentanyl. And when your in that much pain and the dentist's schedule you a couple days later knowing or not knowing how much pain your in . I probably will take my chances cause the pain I'm in OMG, my teeth I can't function at all . I need pain killers , can you get any!

3/8/2023 04:09:25 am

Sami link

3/23/2023 05:03:48 am

I had no idea that tooth decay that had advanced far enough to develop a cavity might also be the source of toothaches. I appreciate you giving this knowledge. Very beneficial!

Samara link

3/23/2023 05:08:59 am

The previous time I had jaw and teeth ache that was so bad that I couldn't even sip cold water. Thanks to the nearby emergency dentistry clinics, I was able to escape more significant health problems. Great article!

Harold link

3/23/2023 05:13:33 am

An insightful article with useful advice. All of the methods are quite effective at preventing tooth decay. Regards for spreading it.

Sheena link

3/23/2023 05:17:32 am

Great blog! I had no idea that keeping your head raised with a pillow could relieve toothache.

4/5/2023 04:28:12 am

This Blog Is Very Helpful And Informative For This Particular Topic. I Appreciate Your Effort That Has Been Taken To Write This Blog For Us. Best Hearing Clinic in Hyderabad, Hearing Aid Specialist, Top digital hearing aid dealers in Hyderabad, Digital hearing aids, Hearing Aids At Discount Price, Buy Hearing Aids Online, Buy Hearing Aids At Low Price, Top Audiologists In Hyderabad, Best Audiologists Hyderabad, qualified audiologists, experienced audiologists, hearing labs hyderabad, hearing lab test hyderabad, hearing solutions Hyderabad <a href="https://www.carehearingclinics.com"> Best audiologist in Hyderabad </a>

7/25/2023 05:08:05 am

This Blog Is Very Helpful And Informative For This Particular Topic. I Appreciate Your Effort That Has Been Taken To Write This Blog For Us. Best Audiologists In Hyderabad, Best Hearing Aids Seller In Hyderabad, Hearing Evaluation Centre In Hyderabad, Hearing Test Centre In Hyderabad, Hearing Clinic in Hyderabad, Best Hearing Clinic in Hyderabad, Hearing Aid Specialist, Top digital hearing aid dealers in Hyderabad, Digital hearing aids, Hearing Aids At Discount Price, Buy Hearing Aids Online, Buy Hearing Aids At Low Price, Top Audiologists In Hyderabad, Best Audiologists Hyderabad, qualified audiologists, experienced audiologists, hearing labs hyderabad, hearing lab test hyderabad, hearing solutions Hyderabad<a href="https://www.carehearingclinics.com"> Best audiologist in Hyderabad </a>

dental crowns near me Redwood City link

7/25/2023 05:22:50 am

Regular dental visits can help overcome dental anxiety and phobia.

Med Clinic link

9/13/2023 03:30:09 am

Med Clinic, your trusted healthcare haven, places the keyword "Med Clinic" at the center of its mission. Our state-of-the-art facility embodies excellence in medical care, where compassionate professionals and cutting-edge technology converge to provide top-notch services. Experience the future of healthcare at Med Clinic, where you are the priority.

Mythrispeechandhearing link

9/20/2023 04:45:50 am

This Blog Is Very Helpful And Informative For This Particular Topic. I Appreciate Your Effort That Has Been Taken To Write This Blog For Us. Speech And Hearing Solutions in Hyderabad, Speech Therapist in Hyderabad, Speech Therapist Hyderabad, Hearing Solutions in Hyderabad, Hearing Solutions Hyderabad, Hearing Specialists In Hyderabad, Hearing Specialist Hyderabad, Best Audiologist In Hyderabad, Best Audiologist Hyderabad, Best Audiologist Near Me, Best Speech Therapist Near Me, Best Hearing Aids Seller Near Me, Hearing Solutions Near Me <a href="https://mythrispeechandhearing.com"> Best audiologist in Hyderabad </a>

10/9/2023 05:45:47 am

11/2/2023 04:15:49 am

chitaranjan das link

11/24/2023 03:07:59 am

helpful info......

11/25/2023 06:09:30 am

Indianapolis Endodontics link

12/5/2023 07:54:39 am

This insightful article provides practical advice for managing tooth or gum pain before a dental appointment, acknowledging the urgency of relief when faced with unbearable discomfort. The highlighted 3-3-3 method with ibuprofen serves as a valuable short-term solution, effectively addressing inflammation and providing interim relief. This article not only offers practical tips for immediate relief but also encourages responsible dental care practices, ensuring a well-rounded approach to oral health.

12/6/2023 06:00:06 am

Root Canal Treatment Christchurch link

12/12/2023 01:10:41 am

I appreciate your practical advice on dealing with toothaches. The blog offers helpful tips on managing dental pain and seeking professional assistance. It's reassuring to know that there are effective remedies available. The emphasis on oral health is commendable, and your guidance will undoubtedly assist those in need.

12/15/2023 06:50:17 am

1/3/2024 05:51:58 am

Noblesville Family Dentistry link

1/4/2024 09:27:33 am

Great article! The 3-3-3 method for tooth pain is a valuable tip, especially when dental help isn't immediately available. The advice on not stopping ibuprofen once you feel relief is particularly useful. Natural remedies like the saltwater rinse and clove oil are excellent alternatives for those who can't take ibuprofen. Quick question: Are there any other home remedies you recommend for toothaches, or is there a specific preventive measure you suggest for maintaining dental health? Thanks!

1/30/2024 03:06:03 am

2/29/2024 12:15:01 am

4/10/2024 05:50:33 am

Daniel link

7/29/2024 11:46:41 pm

Thank you for the practical and informative guide on dealing with toothaches. Your detailed explanations of potential causes and immediate relief strategies are incredibly helpful. I appreciate the emphasis on when to seek professional dental care and the step-by-step tips for managing pain at home. This article is a valuable resource for anyone experiencing tooth discomfort and looking for effective solutions. Excellent job in providing clear and actionable advice to help alleviate dental pain and address underlying issues!

Dentistry at the Cross link

9/9/2024 11:16:27 pm

Excellent post on managing toothaches and dental pain! The practical tips for alleviating discomfort and the advice on when to seek professional help are very helpful. I appreciated the clear guidance on both home remedies and the importance of timely dental care. This is a great resource for anyone dealing with tooth pain and looking for effective solutions. Thanks for sharing this valuable information!

zoihospitals link

9/10/2024 02:40:56 am

<a href="https://zoihospitals.com/orthopedics/">Orthopedic Hospitals in Hyderabad</a>
<a href="https://zoihospitals.com/orthopedics/best-orthopedic-hospital-hyderabad/">Best Orthopedic Hospital in Hyderabad</a>
<a href="https://zoihospitals.com/orthopedics/best-knee-replacement-hospital-hyderabad/">Best Knee Replacement Hospital in Hyderabad</a>
<a href="https://zoihospitals.com/orthopedics/top-orthopedic-hospital-hyderabad/">Top Orthopedic Hospital in Hyderabad</a>
<a href="https://zoihospitals.com/orthopedics/knee-replacement-hyderabad/">Knee Replacement in Hyderabad</a>
<a href="https://zoihospitals.com/orthopedics/best-orthopedic-hyderabad/">Best Orthopedic in Hyderabad</a>
<a href="https://zoihospitals.com/orthopedics/knee-hospital-hyderabad/">Knee Hospital in Hyderabad</a>
<a href="https://zoihospitals.com/orthopedics/knee-replacement-hospital-hyderabad/">Knee Replacement Hospital in Hyderabad</a>
<a href="https://zoihospitals.com/orthopedics/ortho-hospital-hyderabad/">Ortho Hospital Hyderabad</a>
<a href="https://zoihospitals.com/orthopedics/orthopaedic-hospital-hyderabad/">Orthopaedic Hospital Hyderabad</a>
<a href="https://zoihospitals.com/orthopedics/orthopedic-hospital-ameerpet/">Orthopedic Hospital in Ameerpet</a>
<a href="https://zoihospitals.com/orthopedics/orthopedics-hospitals-somajiguda/">Orthopedics Hospitals in Somajiguda</a>
<a href="https://zoihospitals.com/orthopedics/best-orthopedic-hospital-somajiguda/">Best Orthopedic Hospital in Somajiguda</a>
<a href="https://zoihospitals.com/orthopedics/best-orthopedic-atthapur/">Best Orthopedic in Attapur</a>

crystal pro max link

9/13/2024 10:17:59 am

Thank you for providing such informative content! Your blog is a great resource for both beginners and experienced vapers. I especially enjoyed comment section as it clarified a lot for me.