What medicine helps a toothache. Effective Medications for Toothache Relief: Types, Dosages, and Precautions
What are the best medications for toothache relief. How do different pain relievers work for dental pain. What precautions should be taken when using toothache medications. When should you see a dentist for tooth pain.
Understanding Toothache: Causes and Symptoms
Toothache is a common dental issue that can cause significant discomfort and interfere with daily activities. To effectively manage tooth pain, it’s crucial to understand its underlying causes and recognize the symptoms.
Common Causes of Toothache
- Dental caries or cavities (tooth decay)
- Dental infections or abscesses
- Dental or facial injuries
- Gum disease
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Impacted wisdom teeth
Identifying the root cause of tooth pain is essential for determining the most appropriate treatment approach. While over-the-counter medications can provide temporary relief, persistent or severe toothache often requires professional dental care.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers for Toothache
When it comes to managing dental pain, over-the-counter (OTC) medications can be highly effective. These pain relievers fall into two main categories: nonopioid and opioid analgesics.
Nonopioid Analgesics
Nonopioid analgesics are the first line of defense against mild to moderate tooth pain. They include acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Acetaminophen is a popular choice for temporary pain relief and fever reduction. While its exact mechanism of action is not fully understood, it may inhibit the COX pathways through a different mechanism than NSAIDs. However, it lacks anti-inflammatory properties.
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs are often considered more effective than other options for reducing dental pain. The American Dental Association recommends them as first-line therapy for treating toothache. NSAIDs work by blocking the cyclooxygenase enzyme, which helps reduce both pain and inflammation.
Common NSAIDs for tooth pain include:
- Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
- Aspirin
- Naproxen (Aleve)
- Diclofenac
Proper Dosage and Precautions for OTC Pain Relievers
When using over-the-counter pain relievers for toothache, it’s crucial to follow the recommended dosages and be aware of potential risks and side effects.
Ibuprofen
The recommended dose for ibuprofen is 400 mg every 4-6 hours, with a maximum daily dose of 3,200 mg. Ibuprofen may affect heart, gastrointestinal, and kidney health, and can cause skin reactions. It’s not advisable for pregnant individuals from 30 weeks of gestation.
Aspirin
For aspirin, the recommended dose is 1-2 325 mg tablets every 4 hours, or 3 tablets every 6 hours, not exceeding 12 tablets (3,900 mg) daily. Some individuals may experience allergic reactions or stomach bleeding with aspirin use.
Naproxen
The starting dose for naproxen is 500 mg, followed by 250 mg every 6-8 hours as needed, with a maximum daily dose of 1,250 mg. Like other NSAIDs, naproxen can impact heart, gastrointestinal, kidney, and liver health, and may cause skin reactions. It’s not recommended for pregnant individuals from 30 weeks of gestation.
Diclofenac
The recommended dose for diclofenac is 100 mg per day, unless otherwise advised by a doctor. Research suggests that diclofenac use may increase the risk of heart problems and can affect gastrointestinal, kidney, and liver health.
It’s important to note that combining NSAIDs with acetaminophen can be an effective strategy for managing dental pain, as suggested by a 2018 systematic review.
Prescription Pain Medications for Severe Toothache
In cases of severe dental pain, prescription medications may be necessary. Opioid analgesics are a class of painkillers that can provide significant relief by binding to opioid receptors and blocking pain messages sent through the spinal cord.
Opioid Analgesics
While effective for short-term pain relief, opioid analgesics carry risks of dependency, overdose, and other serious side effects. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using these medications only when the benefits for pain management outweigh the potential risks.
Examples of opioid analgesics that may be prescribed for dental pain include:
- Codeine
- Co-codamol (a combination of codeine and acetaminophen)
- Hydrocodone
- Oxycodone
It’s crucial to note that opioid analgesics require a prescription, and a medical professional will determine the appropriate dosage based on individual factors.
Antibiotics for Dental Infections
In some cases, toothache may be caused by a bacterial infection. When this occurs, antibiotics may be prescribed alongside pain relievers to address the underlying cause of the pain.
Common Antibiotics for Dental Infections
- Amoxicillin
- Penicillin
- Metronidazole
- Clindamycin
It’s important to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by your dentist or doctor, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished. This helps prevent the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Natural Remedies and Home Care for Toothache
While medications can provide significant relief, there are also several natural remedies and home care techniques that can help alleviate tooth pain:
- Salt water rinse: Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and use it as a mouth rinse to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria.
- Cold compress: Apply a cold pack or ice wrapped in a towel to the outside of the cheek near the affected area to numb pain and reduce swelling.
- Clove oil: Apply a small amount of clove oil to the affected area using a cotton swab. Clove oil has natural analgesic and antibacterial properties.
- Peppermint tea bags: Apply a cooled, used peppermint tea bag to the affected area. Peppermint has mild numbing properties that can provide temporary relief.
- Garlic: Crush a clove of garlic and mix it with a little salt to create a paste. Apply this mixture to the affected tooth. Garlic has antimicrobial properties that may help fight infection.
While these home remedies can provide temporary relief, they should not replace professional dental care for persistent or severe toothache.
When to See a Dentist for Tooth Pain
While over-the-counter medications and home remedies can provide temporary relief for mild toothache, there are situations where professional dental care is necessary. Here are some signs that indicate you should see a dentist:
- Severe pain that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter pain relievers
- Pain lasting more than a few days
- Swelling in the face or jaw
- Fever accompanying the toothache
- Difficulty opening your mouth or swallowing
- Persistent bad taste in the mouth or bad breath
- Visible damage to the tooth, such as a chip or crack
- Loose or fallen out filling
Early intervention by a dental professional can prevent minor issues from developing into more serious problems. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices can also help prevent many causes of toothache.
Preventing Toothache: Tips for Maintaining Oral Health
Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to dental health. Here are some tips to help maintain good oral hygiene and prevent toothache:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to remove food particles and plaque between teeth
- Use an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen breath
- Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks
- Avoid tobacco products
- Wear a mouthguard during sports or if you grind your teeth at night
- Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings
- Address dental issues promptly to prevent them from worsening
By following these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing toothache and other dental problems.
Understanding the Risks of Self-Medication for Tooth Pain
While over-the-counter medications can provide effective relief for toothache, it’s important to understand the potential risks associated with self-medication:
Masking Underlying Issues
Pain relievers can mask the symptoms of serious dental problems without addressing the root cause. This can lead to the progression of underlying conditions, potentially resulting in more severe complications.
Overuse of Medications
Prolonged use of pain medications, especially NSAIDs, can lead to adverse effects such as stomach ulcers, kidney problems, or increased risk of heart disease. It’s crucial to follow recommended dosages and not rely on pain relievers as a long-term solution for dental issues.
Antibiotic Resistance
Inappropriate use of antibiotics, such as taking them without a prescription or not completing the full course, can contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This can make future infections more difficult to treat.
Allergic Reactions
Some individuals may be allergic to certain medications. It’s important to be aware of any known allergies and to watch for signs of allergic reactions when taking new medications.
Drug Interactions
Pain relievers and antibiotics can interact with other medications you may be taking. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications you’re currently using to avoid potential harmful interactions.
While self-medication can provide temporary relief, it’s not a substitute for professional dental care. If tooth pain persists or worsens, it’s crucial to consult a dentist to identify and address the underlying cause.
Best medication for toothache: Types and precuations
To manage toothache and reduce swelling, a person may consider using medications such as pain relievers, antibiotics, or drug-free alternatives.
Share on PinterestDesign by MNT; Photography by Yagi Studio/Getty Images & NICK VEASEY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY/Getty Images
Toothache is a common symptom of many dental issues. It can cause discomfort and may make eating and drinking difficult. Many options, including medications, are available to help reduce pain. If a person has a toothache lasting more than a few days, it is advisable to consult a dentist.
This article discusses appropriate medications for toothache, how to prevent toothache, and when to contact a dentist.
Toothache can occur due to various reasons, such as:
- dental caries or cavities, known as tooth decay
- dental infections, or as a complication, a dental abscess
- dental or face injuries
- gum disease
- teeth grinding
- impacted wisdom tooth
Identifying the cause of pain is essential for choosing an appropriate treatment option to relieve discomfort.
A primary care physician can determine if the pain originates from the tooth — known as odontogenic pain — and select a suitable treatment option. Some options that can alleviate dental pain include the below.
People can classify analgesics, or pain relief medication, as opioids or nonopioids. This term refers to whether they interact with the opioid receptors in the brain.
Nonopioid analgesic options include acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
These drugs are very effective for relieving mild or moderate dental pain and are some of the most frequently recommended analgesics by dentists.
Acetaminophen can temporarily relieve mild to moderate pain and fever.
Although researchers are unsure exactly how acetaminophen reduces pain, it may also inhibit the COX pathways through a different mechanism. However, it is not an NSAID as it does not have anti-inflammatory properties.
NSAIDs
The American Dental Association suggests that NSAIDs are often more effective than other options for reducing dental pain. As such, they typically recommend them as first-line therapy for treating toothache.
These drugs usually work similarly by blocking the cyclooxygenase enzyme to treat pain and inflammation. This is why doctors refer to these drugs as COX inhibitors.
NSAID types
Examples of NSAIDs a person can take for tooth pain include:
NSAID | Dosage | Risks |
---|---|---|
Ibuprofen | The recommended dose is 400 mg every 4–6 hours. People should not exceed more than 3,200 mg daily. | Ibuprofen may impact the heart, gastrointestinal health, and kidneys. It may also cause skin reactions. These drugs are not advisable for pregnant people from 30 weeks. |
Aspirin | The recommended dose is 1–2 325 mg tablets every 4 hours, or 3 tablets every 6 hours. People should not exceed 12 tablets, or 3,900 mg, daily. | Some people may experience an allergic reaction to aspirin, and it can cause stomach bleeding in some individuals. |
Naproxen | Doctors recommend a starting dose of 500 mg, then 250 mg every 6–8 hours as necessary. A person should not exceed a daily dose of 1,250 mg. | This drug may impact heart, gastrointestinal, kidney, and liver health and result in skin reactions. Doctors do not advise these for pregnant people from 30 weeks. |
Diclofenac | The recommended dose is 100 mg per day. People should not exceed unless a doctor advises. | Research suggests that taking diclofenac may increase the risk of heart problems. It may also impact gastrointestinal, kidney, and liver health. |
A 2018 systematic review suggests that combining NSAIDs with acetaminophen is an effective option for managing dental pain.
Opioids are a class of painkillers that can reduce pain by binding to opioid receptors. When this occurs, opioids block the body’s pain messages sent through the spinal cord. Dental pain is often the reason for a person’s first encounter with opioids.
These drugs are effective for relieving pain and are generally safe when people use them for a short time, as a doctor prescribes.
However, opioid analgesics can lead to use disorders, overdose incidents, and death. As such, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggest that a person only takes this medication in circumstances where the benefits for pain outweigh the risks.
As opioid analgesics require a prescription, a medical professional will advise the dosage that a person requires. Some examples of opioid analgesics that a dentist or doctor may prescribe for dental pain include:
- Codeine: This option is available as a tablet, and people can take 15–60 mg every 4 hours as necessary, but it should not exceed 360 mg in 24 hours. However, research suggests that codeine is less effective for managing dental pain than nonopioid analgesics. People can also use co-codamol, which contains both codeine and acetaminophen.
- Oxycodone: It is advisable to use oxycodone at the lowest effective dosage for the shortest duration. The recommended dosage is 5–15 mg every 4–6 hours as necessary for pain.
- Hydrocodone: This option is also available as a tablet that can contain acetaminophen. Depending on the strength of the tablet, a person can take 1–2 tablets every 4–6 hours as necessary. They should not exceed a daily dosage of eight 2.5–5 mg tablets or six 7.5–10 mg tablets.
- Morphine: People can take morphine as an oral solution. It is often available in three concentrations: 2, 4, and 20 mg per milliliter. The recommended dosage to start treatment in adults is 10–20 mg every 4 hours.
If the cause of the tooth pain is a bacterial infection, then a person will likely receive a course of antibiotics to clear the infection.
However, it is important that dentists follow proper guidelines and only prescribe necessary antibiotics to prevent the risk of antibiotic resistance. Some antibiotics that a dentist may commonly prescribe include:
- amoxicillin
- clindamycin
- azithromycin
- doxycycline
Topical anesthetics describe creams or gels that can help reduce pain by numbing a sore area. People can apply them directly to the sore tooth. Traditional topical anesthetics often contain lidocaine or benzocaine as active ingredients.
Benzocaine can help reduce toothache by blocking nerve signals around the painful area. A person can apply benzocaine gels up to 4 times daily or as per the instructions of their dentist or doctor. Lidocaine is another local anesthetic a person can use to relieve oral pain.
A person may want to address their toothache with natural remedies. Some options may include:
- Saline solution: Using salt water as a mouthwash can help loosen debris between the teeth, which may aggravate the sore tooth. As salt is a natural disinfectant, it can help reduce inflammation.
- Cold compress: Wrapping a cold pack in a cloth and then placing it against the side of the face can help to reduce swelling and pain.
- Elevation: Resting with the head propped up on a pillow can help to reduce dental pain when lying down.
- Garlic: This plant contains many compounds, such as allicin, that may possess antibacterial properties. Therefore, using garlic may help with a toothache that occurs due to bacteria.
A person may also consider eating foods that are soft and easy to chew to prevent discomfort with a sore tooth. They may also want to avoid food and drinks at extreme temperatures and try to limit smoking, if applicable.
Learn more about other toothache remedies and how to treat toothache at night.
The best way to prevent toothache is to keep teeth and gums healthy. Good oral hygiene is an important step in maintaining oral health. The American Dental Association recommends the following tips to keep teeth healthy:
- brushing teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
- cleaning between teeth daily using floss or sticks
- eating a balanced diet that limits sugary beverages and snacks
- visiting a dentist regularly
- avoiding tobacco products
While medications and other remedies can help reduce toothache, it is sensible to seek dental help.
Regular dental appointments are important as they can identify dental problems early. Health experts recommend visiting a dentist at least once a year. However, some individuals may require more regular appointments.
A toothache is a common reason for requiring a dental visit. A dentist can help determine the issue and prevent potential complications. Experts strongly advise people book an appointment with their dentist as soon as possible if they experience any of the following symptoms:
- pain that lasts more than 2 days
- they have additional symptoms, such as:
- fever
- bleeding
- bad taste in the mouth
- medication is not relieving the pain
- swollen cheek or jaw
Toothache is a painful symptom that people may experience for various reasons.
Many medications, such as analgesics, antibiotics, and anesthetics, are available to help alleviate discomfort.
Home remedies can also help reduce pain. To prevent tooth pain, it is advisable that people practice good oral hygiene and regularly attend their dental appointments.
Best medication for toothache: Types and precuations
To manage toothache and reduce swelling, a person may consider using medications such as pain relievers, antibiotics, or drug-free alternatives.
Share on PinterestDesign by MNT; Photography by Yagi Studio/Getty Images & NICK VEASEY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY/Getty Images
Toothache is a common symptom of many dental issues. It can cause discomfort and may make eating and drinking difficult. Many options, including medications, are available to help reduce pain. If a person has a toothache lasting more than a few days, it is advisable to consult a dentist.
This article discusses appropriate medications for toothache, how to prevent toothache, and when to contact a dentist.
Toothache can occur due to various reasons, such as:
- dental caries or cavities, known as tooth decay
- dental infections, or as a complication, a dental abscess
- dental or face injuries
- gum disease
- teeth grinding
- impacted wisdom tooth
Identifying the cause of pain is essential for choosing an appropriate treatment option to relieve discomfort.
A primary care physician can determine if the pain originates from the tooth — known as odontogenic pain — and select a suitable treatment option. Some options that can alleviate dental pain include the below.
People can classify analgesics, or pain relief medication, as opioids or nonopioids. This term refers to whether they interact with the opioid receptors in the brain.
Nonopioid analgesic options include acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
These drugs are very effective for relieving mild or moderate dental pain and are some of the most frequently recommended analgesics by dentists.
Acetaminophen can temporarily relieve mild to moderate pain and fever.
Although researchers are unsure exactly how acetaminophen reduces pain, it may also inhibit the COX pathways through a different mechanism. However, it is not an NSAID as it does not have anti-inflammatory properties.
NSAIDs
The American Dental Association suggests that NSAIDs are often more effective than other options for reducing dental pain. As such, they typically recommend them as first-line therapy for treating toothache.
These drugs usually work similarly by blocking the cyclooxygenase enzyme to treat pain and inflammation. This is why doctors refer to these drugs as COX inhibitors.
NSAID types
Examples of NSAIDs a person can take for tooth pain include:
NSAID | Dosage | Risks |
---|---|---|
Ibuprofen | The recommended dose is 400 mg every 4–6 hours. People should not exceed more than 3,200 mg daily. | Ibuprofen may impact the heart, gastrointestinal health, and kidneys. It may also cause skin reactions. These drugs are not advisable for pregnant people from 30 weeks. |
Aspirin | The recommended dose is 1–2 325 mg tablets every 4 hours, or 3 tablets every 6 hours. People should not exceed 12 tablets, or 3,900 mg, daily. | Some people may experience an allergic reaction to aspirin, and it can cause stomach bleeding in some individuals. |
Naproxen | Doctors recommend a starting dose of 500 mg, then 250 mg every 6–8 hours as necessary. A person should not exceed a daily dose of 1,250 mg. | This drug may impact heart, gastrointestinal, kidney, and liver health and result in skin reactions. Doctors do not advise these for pregnant people from 30 weeks. |
Diclofenac | The recommended dose is 100 mg per day. People should not exceed unless a doctor advises. | Research suggests that taking diclofenac may increase the risk of heart problems. It may also impact gastrointestinal, kidney, and liver health. |
A 2018 systematic review suggests that combining NSAIDs with acetaminophen is an effective option for managing dental pain.
Opioids are a class of painkillers that can reduce pain by binding to opioid receptors. When this occurs, opioids block the body’s pain messages sent through the spinal cord. Dental pain is often the reason for a person’s first encounter with opioids.
These drugs are effective for relieving pain and are generally safe when people use them for a short time, as a doctor prescribes.
However, opioid analgesics can lead to use disorders, overdose incidents, and death. As such, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggest that a person only takes this medication in circumstances where the benefits for pain outweigh the risks.
As opioid analgesics require a prescription, a medical professional will advise the dosage that a person requires. Some examples of opioid analgesics that a dentist or doctor may prescribe for dental pain include:
- Codeine: This option is available as a tablet, and people can take 15–60 mg every 4 hours as necessary, but it should not exceed 360 mg in 24 hours. However, research suggests that codeine is less effective for managing dental pain than nonopioid analgesics. People can also use co-codamol, which contains both codeine and acetaminophen.
- Oxycodone: It is advisable to use oxycodone at the lowest effective dosage for the shortest duration. The recommended dosage is 5–15 mg every 4–6 hours as necessary for pain.
- Hydrocodone: This option is also available as a tablet that can contain acetaminophen. Depending on the strength of the tablet, a person can take 1–2 tablets every 4–6 hours as necessary. They should not exceed a daily dosage of eight 2.5–5 mg tablets or six 7.5–10 mg tablets.
- Morphine: People can take morphine as an oral solution. It is often available in three concentrations: 2, 4, and 20 mg per milliliter. The recommended dosage to start treatment in adults is 10–20 mg every 4 hours.
If the cause of the tooth pain is a bacterial infection, then a person will likely receive a course of antibiotics to clear the infection.
However, it is important that dentists follow proper guidelines and only prescribe necessary antibiotics to prevent the risk of antibiotic resistance. Some antibiotics that a dentist may commonly prescribe include:
- amoxicillin
- clindamycin
- azithromycin
- doxycycline
Topical anesthetics describe creams or gels that can help reduce pain by numbing a sore area. People can apply them directly to the sore tooth. Traditional topical anesthetics often contain lidocaine or benzocaine as active ingredients.
Benzocaine can help reduce toothache by blocking nerve signals around the painful area. A person can apply benzocaine gels up to 4 times daily or as per the instructions of their dentist or doctor. Lidocaine is another local anesthetic a person can use to relieve oral pain.
A person may want to address their toothache with natural remedies. Some options may include:
- Saline solution: Using salt water as a mouthwash can help loosen debris between the teeth, which may aggravate the sore tooth. As salt is a natural disinfectant, it can help reduce inflammation.
- Cold compress: Wrapping a cold pack in a cloth and then placing it against the side of the face can help to reduce swelling and pain.
- Elevation: Resting with the head propped up on a pillow can help to reduce dental pain when lying down.
- Garlic: This plant contains many compounds, such as allicin, that may possess antibacterial properties. Therefore, using garlic may help with a toothache that occurs due to bacteria.
A person may also consider eating foods that are soft and easy to chew to prevent discomfort with a sore tooth. They may also want to avoid food and drinks at extreme temperatures and try to limit smoking, if applicable.
Learn more about other toothache remedies and how to treat toothache at night.
The best way to prevent toothache is to keep teeth and gums healthy. Good oral hygiene is an important step in maintaining oral health. The American Dental Association recommends the following tips to keep teeth healthy:
- brushing teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
- cleaning between teeth daily using floss or sticks
- eating a balanced diet that limits sugary beverages and snacks
- visiting a dentist regularly
- avoiding tobacco products
While medications and other remedies can help reduce toothache, it is sensible to seek dental help.
Regular dental appointments are important as they can identify dental problems early. Health experts recommend visiting a dentist at least once a year. However, some individuals may require more regular appointments.
A toothache is a common reason for requiring a dental visit. A dentist can help determine the issue and prevent potential complications. Experts strongly advise people book an appointment with their dentist as soon as possible if they experience any of the following symptoms:
- pain that lasts more than 2 days
- they have additional symptoms, such as:
- fever
- bleeding
- bad taste in the mouth
- medication is not relieving the pain
- swollen cheek or jaw
Toothache is a painful symptom that people may experience for various reasons.
Many medications, such as analgesics, antibiotics, and anesthetics, are available to help alleviate discomfort.
Home remedies can also help reduce pain. To prevent tooth pain, it is advisable that people practice good oral hygiene and regularly attend their dental appointments.
Tablets for toothache | What to drink for a toothache
When it comes to what to drink for a toothache and which pills are most effective, confusion often begins due to the numerous promotional articles from non-professionals. Let’s consider this topic from the point of view of specialists, dentists with many years of experience.
Will it help?
Of course, before taking painkillers for toothache, you should evaluate the degree of pain and think about the potential consequences of taking medications. In fact, according to statistics, units think about these aspects as soon as they experience pain in the oral cavity.
The most important fact is that the relief of toothache with pills will only be a temporary solution. This approach will help to alleviate the general condition, but only for a certain time.
It should also be noted that often pain in the teeth is accompanied by concomitant symptoms, which manifests itself in inflammation of the gums, cheeks, fever and a feeling of general malaise. Many of the tablets help relieve secondary manifestations, but do not affect the cause.
That is why, in most cases, a visit to the dentist will still be required. After all, painkillers will simply reduce the level of pain, but not for long. Moreover, in many situations, the ongoing disease will only gain momentum, and the pain will increase. Therefore, it makes no sense to endure without visiting a doctor for a long period with persistent toothache, it makes no sense.
Types of strong painkillers for toothache
Different types of painkillers can be used for toothache. We list:
- Tablets are used to influence the pain epicenter. Able to dull discomfort for several hours.
- Powder spares the gastrointestinal tract, has anti-inflammatory and antipyretic effects.
- Toothpaste helps with hypersensitivity in tooth enamel. That is, in the presence of caries, pain relief will not occur. And in the first case, it is enough to brush your teeth regularly.
- Gel is also able to temporarily relieve toothache due to local anesthetic action.
Let’s go through the list
This material is not an advertisement of any means, so we will list the most suitable solutions in toothache tablets in alphabetical order:
- Analgin.
- Ibuklin.
- Ketanov.
- Ketorol.
- Mig.
- Nise.
- Nimesil.
- Nurofen (ibuprofen and similar drugs).
- Sanaprox.
- Tempalgin.
Ketanov is considered one of the most suitable options when asked what to drink for a toothache. It has a sufficient speed of impact, that is, fast, and at the same time effective. Such pills in some cases help to stop even pronounced pain. But you should remember about the frequency of administration and dosages.
Nurofen not only helps relieve pain, but also has an anti-inflammatory and antipyretic effect on the entire body. You should be aware that some of the modifications of these toothache tablets contain a potent substance in the form of codeine. We are talking about variations of Nurofen Plus and Nurofen Plus N. It will also enhance the analgesic effect. The classic version can be used to relieve toothache in both adults and children.
A simple version with classic toothache tablets in the form of Analgin is also popular in the fight against this ailment. The main substance here is metamizole sodium, which, due to its acidic structure, has a negative effect on enamel. For this reason, in the presence of damage in the latter, the area of \u200b\u200bcarious lesions may increase. But if a filling falls out or chips, it will be effective.
About contraindications
Any doctor will say that any painkillers for toothache also have a negative effect on the body. This is due to the fact that they involve the work of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, liver, cardiac and nervous systems. But side effects are observed when pills and other types of drugs are not taken correctly or treatment regimens are not followed.
Main contraindications for toothache tablets:
- idiosyncrasy;
- pregnancy;
- lactation period;
- ulcer;
- heart failure;
- kidney or liver problems;
- asthma;
- problems with the circulatory system;
- children’s age.
In fact, the body can react individually to the action of substances, so before taking any painkillers, you should read the instructions, and, if possible, also consult a specialist.
Toothache ways to quickly get rid of, tablets, rinses, massage
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Filatova Natalya Valerievna
dentist-therapist
Work experience 35 years, Highest category
More about the doctor
No one will argue that toothache is the most painful. Often it appears suddenly and immediately begins to affect all aspects of our lives. We cannot fully chew food, work and communicate with people – pain makes itself felt every minute.
As a rule, in the evening the malaise only intensifies: in a horizontal position, the blood rushes more strongly to the head and increases pressure on the nerve endings. Saliva, which is a natural antiseptic, begins to be produced weaker, which exacerbates inflammation in the mouth. Another reason for night pain is a decrease in the activity of the adrenal glands. They are responsible for the production of steroid hormones that suppress the pain effect during the daytime.
Why does my tooth hurt?
Temporary pain from mechanical damage is easily relieved by painkillers, but the cause of prolonged and intense pain lies much deeper:
- Increased tooth sensitivity . The reaction of teeth to cold, hot, sour, sweet can be an innate feature. But if the discomfort appeared for no clear reason, sensitive teeth can become evidence of more serious diseases – from dental in the form of thinning of tooth enamel to pathologies occurring inside the body. Among them may be diseases of a neurological nature, hormonal disorders.
- Caries . In the early stages, the disease is almost asymptomatic. Discomfort may appear during the reception of cold or hot food. With advanced caries, damage to dentin and enamel begins, and the pain syndrome worsens and is accompanied by the development of pulpitis.
- Pulpitis . Acute toothaches cover soft tissues, arteries and nerve endings inside the tooth. They do not go away, almost do not give in to tablets for acute toothache and can lead to fever and deterioration of the general condition. As a result, you can lose a tooth.
- Periodontitis . The inflammatory process in the tissues surrounding the top of the tooth may not bother you for a long time. As the disease progresses, bleeding gums, bad breath, itching and pain when chewing appear.
- Periodontitis . The disease is the result of untreated pulpitis or improper canal filling. Inflammation affects not only the periodontal tissues, but also the bone. The pain becomes cutting, in some cases the tooth begins to stagger, a cyst forms.
One should not endure pain for weeks in the hope that it will subside on its own. This is fraught with complications and the risk of losing a tooth.
How can you relieve a toothache?
If you have a toothache, and you can not immediately consult a doctor, you can reduce its intensity with the help of oral hygiene. Gently brush and rinse your mouth to get rid of food particles and bacteria. This will help create an unfavorable environment for the development of infections and the reproduction of microorganisms.
Next, you need to act deliberately and not panic. You will not be able to cure the symptom on your own, but some methods will help reduce toothaches for a while:
Toothache tablets
Painkillers are the best toothache remedy that has a quick effect. In Belarus, most often in a home first-aid kit you can find:
Ketanov.
Ketorolac.
Aspirin.
Analgin.
Paracetamol.
Ibuprofen.
MIG.
Nimesil.
Niz.
They all act differently and relieve pain to varying degrees. Pregnant women and children should be careful with medications. When pregnant, it is better to consult a doctor. Paracetamol is considered safe drugs. Nurofen can be taken in the 1st and 2nd trimester of pregnancy.
Most medicines are contraindicated for children under 12 years of age, so it is recommended to give them Ibuprofen, Paracetamol, Nurofen children’s tablets for toothache.
Rinse
Rinse reduces the activity of harmful microflora and helps relieve inflammation. It is recommended to rinse your mouth with warm solutions to prevent burns or hypothermia of the mucous membrane.
Both homemade and commercial products can be used as a solution:
- Salt and water. Dilute 2 teaspoons of salt in a glass of water. Salt solution kills pathogenic bacteria and fungi, disinfects the oral cavity and relieves swelling.
- Soda. One of the best antiseptics that does not cause allergies. To prepare the solution, mix 1 tsp of soda and a glass of water and mix well.
- Herbal decoctions. In addition to tablets, mint, sage, chamomile and lemon balm leaves are best for toothache. 2 tablespoons of dry leaves are poured with boiling water and allowed to brew for about 20 minutes. Rinse your mouth with warm decoction 4-5 times a day.
- Oak bark. Put water on the stove and add 2-3 tablespoons of dry powder. After boiling, boil the medicine for about 5 minutes, strain and cool slightly. You can use oak bark every 3 hours – it will have an anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect.
- Pharmaceutical preparations. Special remedies for dental pain can also be purchased in pharmacies in Belarus. They have almost no contraindications, prevent the growth of microbes and relieve inflammation. You can rinse your mouth with antiseptic drugs Chlorhexidine or Miramistin, as well as anti-inflammatory drugs – Tantum Verde and Stomatofit.
Compresses
Cold compresses provide short-term relief. Wrap an ice cube or frozen food in a towel and apply to the sore cheek. The cold helps constrict the blood vessels, and the toothache becomes weaker.
But hot compresses are strictly contraindicated, as they only stimulate blood flow and lead to the growth of bacteria. It is also impossible to apply gruel from analgin – this can destroy the tooth and create a mucosal burn.
Acupressure
According to the Chinese folk method, pressing on certain points for 2-3 minutes will help reduce pain and even get rid of pain completely. Massage is carried out on 4 points:
- Between the phalanges of the thumb and forefinger.
- Earlobe on the opposite side of the diseased tooth.