Painkillers for Toothache (2024)

FAQs

What is the best painkiller for toothache? ›

Ibuprofen, aspirin, and acetaminophen are all effective pain killers—though one study suggests that ibuprofen is more effective against toothaches. To find fast relief from toothache pain, take one of these over-the-counter remedies as prescribed on the bottle.

Acetaminophen: Known for its fever-reducing properties, acetaminophen is a go-to option for mild to moderate tooth pain, especially if anti-inflammatory effects are a concern. Aspirin: Beyond its cardiovascular benefits, aspirin's anti-inflammatory properties make it a contender for easing tooth discomfort.

You can try to get rid of a toothache in 5 minutes by rinsing with hydrogen peroxide, salt water, or wheatgrass. Next, you can apply clove oil, vanilla extract, or garlic paste to the affected area. Finally, apply a cold compress or ice pack. If the pain doesn't resolve or if it's severe, talk with your dentist.

If painkillers aren't providing relief, it may be due to the underlying cause of the toothache. Painkillers can temporarily mask the pain but won't treat the root problem. Consult with an emergency dentist to diagnose and address the issue properly.

An extraction handles the problem by removing the tooth, including the infected tissue and the nerve that was responsible for the pain. Root canal therapy is a more conservative treatment. During the procedure, a dentist removes the damaged tissue and the nerve from inside the tooth.

Sleep with your head elevated – Prop up a few pillows to prevent your blood flow from rushing to your head, making your tooth pain worse. Use a cold compress – A cold compress (or towel-wrapped ice pack) can reduce inflammation and numb the area.

Naproxen. Naproxen (Aleve) is the most powerful anti-inflammatory pain reliever available without a prescription. It is especially effective for sprains, sunburns and arthritis and other conditions. Similar doses of Naproxen tend to last longer than other non-prescription pain relievers.

Using medications like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), acetaminophen (Tylenol), and aspirin can relieve minor pain from a toothache. Using numbing pastes or gels with benzocaine can help dull the pain long enough for you to fall asleep. Don't use any products with benzocaine to treat infants or children under age 2.

What drink helps a toothache? ›

A toothache can result from tooth decay, an infection, loose or broken fillings, or receding gums. Home treatment options include applying a cold compress, gargling with salt water, and drinking peppermint tea. If the pain lasts for more than 1 or 2 days, it is best to consult a dentist immediately for treatment.

You may have gasses trapped in your tooth. If you keep ice cold water in your mouth, the gasses will contract and pain either lessens or ceases.

The ER staff can get patients stabilized, control bleeding, and give treatment for dental fractures. In the case of bacterial infections, they can provide antibiotics and will arrange for transfer to the hospital if necessary. They can also treat broken, dislodged, or fractured teeth and help to control severe pain.

If your toothache is not going away despite home management or if it is getting worse, you must contact your dentist. Contact your dentist immediately if you notice any of these signs: Pain while opening the mouth.

If over-the-counter painkillers are not working for your toothache, call your dentist right away. You may need another medication, such as an antibiotic, in preparation for having the tooth pain fixed.

Tramadol. Tramadol is a powerful painkiller related to morphine that can be used to treat neuropathic pain that does not respond to other treatments a GP can prescribe. Like all opioids, tramadol can be addictive if it's taken for a long time. It'll usually only be prescribed for a short time.

If your dentist checks out your oral health and doesn't find anything, there could be a variety of possibilities to the true source of pain. This type of pain is known as referred pain. The types of referred pain patients can experience are related, but not limited, to: Congested or Infected Sinuses.