Toothache Remedies | Orajel™

You have a painful toothache, but you can’t get to the dentist right away. What can you do? Don’t let it slow you down. Here are some ways you can get toothache pain relief quickly and easily.

Over-the-Counter General Pain Relievers for Toothaches

Take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS) such as Ibuprofen or Naproxen Sodium, or non-NSAID Acetaminophen for temporary relief.
NOTE: Consult a physician or dentist. Please use only according to the instructions on the label.

Over-the-Counter Toothache Pain Relievers

Orajel™ Toothache Pain Relief Gel, Cream, Strips, Liquid, and Swabs
contain benzocaine, a topical pain reliever for temporary relief, that can be used by adults and be given to children 2 years of age and older.
NOTE: Consult a physician or dentist. Please use only according to the instructions on the label.

Toothache Home Remedies

You can also try home remedies for toothache relief too:

• Avoidance – Do not chew on the side where the pain is located. Avoid extremely hot or cold beverages and don’t chew ice. When you brush, be very gentle.
• Saltwater – Mix a few teaspoons of table salt in a glass of warm water and swish it around in your mouth as long as you can stand it (but don’t swallow it). The salt and heat together may provide some pain relief.
• Flossing – This might help remove any food particles that are stuck between teeth.
• Clove Oil – You can soak a cotton ball in this natural pain reliever and bite down with the painful tooth.Caution: cloves are also a fairly strong spice and may result in burns to the gum.

Food-Based Home Remedies for Toothaches

Certain foods are also known home remedies for toothaches. These include:

• Garlic – Chewing on a clove of garlic is a time-honored remedy.
• Onions – Chop a fresh onion and hold it inside the mouth.
• Lime/Lemon Juice – Take a fresh lime or lemon and cut it into small slices. Bite into the slice if it’s not too painful.

Best Drugs for Dental Pain

People undergoing any kind of dental surgery should ask what treatments are available and communicate their preferences for pain control when making a plan with their dentist or oral surgeon, Dionne says.

Make sure you’ve provided a thorough medical history so that your doctor can recommend pain relievers that are safest for you. Most people who take blood thinners or who have advanced kidney disease should avoid NSAIDs, for example.

It’s important to know that taking too much of any kind of pain medication—even OTC products—isn’t safe. So get written instructions for how much of each type of medication to take and how often to take it.

Start with steps to reduce dental pain immediately after your procedure, when it’s likely to be most severe, Dionne says.

For example, your dentist can use a long-acting local anesthetic to keep you numb longer and inject a steroid to reduce swelling. You can apply cool packs when you get home and take an NSAID before the anesthetic wears off to start controlling inflammation as soon as possible.

The experts CR consulted advise tailoring your treatment to your level of pain, adjusting your medications as the pain recedes.

For mild pain, an NSAID typically suffices, Moore says. Your dentist may recommend taking a higher dose at first—600 mg of ibuprofen rather than the standard 200 mg to 400 mg—but never exceed the dosages stated on the label without your provider’s okay.

If you need further relief, you can add 325 mg to 500 mg of acetaminophen (one pill of regular- or extra-strength Tylenol, respectively.)

The new OTC pain reliever Advil Dual Action combines acetaminophen and ibuprofen, a convenient formulation that may work against milder pain. “The doses of ibuprofen and acetaminophen found in Advil Dual Action have been shown to provide safe and effective pain relief following minor dental surgery and simple tooth extractions,” Moore says.

But, Moore adds, the lower doses of pain relievers in this new product may be inadequate for some patients with more severe pain. “Higher doses of ibuprofen and acetaminophen may be appropriate for more complex and traumatic oral surgical procedures, such as extraction of multiple impacted wisdom teeth.”

Toothache Remedies You Can Make at Home

No one likes having a toothache. The discomfort, swelling, and pain while eating or drinking can be enough to put anyone in a bad mood – and make them want to get to a dentist right away. But what do you do if you can’t get into your dentist’s office? Here are a few at-home remedies that can help you cope with toothache pain.

Rinse with Saltwater

Saltwater is a natural disinfectant, which makes it many people’s go-to for cleaning cuts and bruises. However, it can also be an effective treatment for toothaches! A simple saltwater rinse can disinfect your gums and remove particles in between your teeth, which can help reduce pain and inflammation.

To make a saltwater rinse, combine half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. Then take a sip, swish it around your mouth, and spit into the sink. Repeat this process until you feel the pain begin to subside.

Peppermint Tea Compress

This treatment has a three-pronged approach. Firstly, the mere act of applying a cold compress (or a warm one, depending on your personal taste) to a sensitive area can be very soothing. Secondly, peppermint has a numbing effect that can help eliminate pain. And finally, the menthol in peppermint can help kill bacteria around your tooth!

To try this home remedy, simply take a used peppermint tea bag and allow it to cool in the freezer (or at room temperature, if you’d rather use a warm compress). Then, apply the bag directly to your toothache. The compress should provide you with a little relief.

Chew Some Garlic

Back in 2015, the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine published a study of natural remedies known to help with toothache. One remedy that showed some promise was garlic – no surprise, as garlic has long been considered a natural medicine. Garlic is an effective anti-inflammatory, which means it can help reduce swelling and pain around your tooth.

Some people suggest chewing on a clove of raw garlic to relieve toothache pain. However, if you don’t want to do any chewing (we get it), you can also make a paste out of crushed garlic and apply it to the affected area.

Dab on Vanilla Extract

Vanilla extract is an antioxidant, which means it can help slow damage to your cells caused by bacteria. Additionally, most vanilla extracts contain a small amount of alcohol, which means they can be effective pain relievers.

Simply dab a few drops of vanilla extract onto a cotton ball (or your finger). Then, apply the extract directly to your toothache. This should help relieve a little pain – and it may even keep bacteria at bay until you can get to the dentist!

Try OTC Medicine

Sometimes these natural remedies just aren’t effective enough. If you really can’t handle your tooth pain (or if you don’t have any of the previous ingredients handy), over-the-counter medication can be an effective way to get long-lasting relief. The most popular OTC options for toothaches are Ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) and Acetaminophen (Tylenol).

While these medications can be effective, it is important to remember that they should be used in moderation. In large doses, ibuprofen can irritate organs like your stomach or kidneys. Acetaminophen can lead to liver damage if you take too much. Make sure you follow the instructions on your bottle!

When to Call Your Dentist

Of course, if your tooth pain persists for more than a day or two, the best thing you can do is call your dentist. Our team will be happy to help you find real, long-lasting relief – and we’ll make your teeth and gums healthier, too!

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10 Toothache Remedies That Really Work – Forbes Health

There are a number of at-home remedies for temporary relief of toothache or pain, but talk to your dentist before taking them. “You should also speak with your dentist before using any of the following remedies if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have any medical conditions that might be impacted by herbal ingredients,” says Huang.

Clove Oil

Clove oil, an active ingredient in many dental products, is the best at-home remedy for tooth pain, according to Huang. “It is a natural antiseptic that reduces pain and inflammation due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties,” she says. “It also acts as a temporary pain reliever.”

The active ingredient in clove oil can be compared to benzocaine, the numbing ingredient in many dental gels. To use clove oil, she suggests soaking a cotton ball in it and applying directly to the area of the toothache, or rinsing your mouth with it.

Willow Bark

There is some evidence that willow bark can aid in reducing inflammation, which will help with pain relief. “Willow bark contains salicin, which is similar to the main ingredient in aspirin,” says Huang. Willow bark tea can be gargled, or a paste of willow bark powder can be applied to the area causing pain.

Cold Compress

A cold compress can help treat some types of oral pain. “If the origin of the toothache is from trauma, cold compress to the area will reduce swelling and inflammation and give you temporary pain relief,” says Huang. She suggests applying the cold compress or wrapped bag of ice to the affected area for intervals of 20 minutes, and repeating every few hours.

Saltwater Rinse

Rinsing your mouth with salt water can also help with a toothache. “Saltwater will naturally reduce inflammation and improve wound healing,” says Huang.

Indeed, a 2016 study in PlosOne found that short-term rinsing with a saltwater solution promotes cell migration, an important process during wound healing. Huang suggests mixing 1 tablespoon of salt with 1/2 cup of warm water. Swish the solution in your mouth for around 30 seconds as often as needed throughout the day.

Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse

A mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water may also help with tooth-related pain and inflammation. “This is an alternative option to the saltwater rinse,” says Huang. Mix a solution of equal parts over-the-counter hydrogen peroxide and water. Swish it around in your mouth for one minute, but don’t swallow it.

Peppermint Tea Bag or Oil

There is scientific evidence that peppermint can help relieve various types of pain. One in vitro study in the European Journal of Dentistry found that peppermint was one of three oils that worked as an effective intracanal antiseptic solution against oral pathogens—meaning it can effectively prevent the growth of bacteria.

If you have a toothache, Huang suggests applying a cold peppermint tea bag. “Chill it [by putting a steeped tea bag in the freezer for a few minutes] and apply it in the area causing pain,” she says. Alternatively, add a few drops of peppermint oil to a cotton ball and apply that directly against the affected tooth.

Thyme

The herb thyme “is a powerful antibacterial and antioxidant,” says Huang. A 2016 study in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies found that in essential oil form, thyme has “powerful antibacterial and antifungal” properties. “Put some thyme oil on a cotton ball and apply it directly to the area to help with pain relief,” says Huang. A few drops of the thyme oil can also be added to a glass of water and used as a mouthwash.

Garlic

There is some evidence that garlic can also help relieve pain. “Fresh garlic cloves contain allicin, which has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties,” says Huang. Crush or chew the garlic clove in order to receive the necessary benefits of the allicin. “Garlic powder will not have the same remedial properties,” she adds.

Topical Pain Relievers

Over-the-counter pain relief gels, creams, liquids and swabs can also temporarily relieve pain. “These treatments typically contain several active ingredients, typically including benzocaine, which will numb the area temporarily,” says Huang.

Over-the-Counter Pain Medication

“Anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, Advil, Motrin or naproxen work well with dental pain because they reduce inflammation,” says Huang.

Recent data has shown the combination of Advil (ibuprofen) and Tylenol (acetaminophen) is as effective as prescription opioids for tooth pain. Experts note that with the rise in opioid addiction, it’s nice to have an effective over-the-counter alternative. Be sure to talk to your dentist first about recommended dosage.

Toothache: First aid – Mayo Clinic

Tooth decay is the primary cause of toothaches for most children and adults. Bacteria that live in your mouth thrive on the sugars and starches in the food you eat. These bacteria form a sticky plaque that clings to the surface of your teeth.

Acids produced by the bacteria in plaque can eat through the hard, white coating on the outside of your teeth (enamel), creating a cavity. The first sign of decay may be a sensation of pain when you eat something sweet, very cold or very hot. Sometimes decay will show as a brown or white spot on the tooth.

Other causes of a toothache can include:

• An accumulation of food and debris between your teeth, especially if your teeth have spaces between them
• Inflammation or infection at the root of the tooth or in the gums
• Trauma to the tooth, including injury or grinding your teeth
• Sudden fracture of the tooth or tooth root
• A split in the tooth that occurs over time
• Teeth that start to appear (erupt) through the gums, such as with teething or wisdom teeth that don’t have enough room to emerge or develop normally (impacted wisdom teeth)
• A sinus infection that can be felt as pain in the teeth

A toothache often requires some sort of treatment by your dentist.

Self-care tips

Until you can see your dentist, try these self-care tips for a toothache:

• Rinse your mouth with warm water.
• Use dental floss to remove any food particles or plaque wedged between your teeth.
• Consider taking an over-the-counter (OTC) pain reliever to dull the ache, but don’t place aspirin or another painkiller directly against your gums because it may burn your gum tissue.
• If the toothache is caused by trauma to the tooth, apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek.

Use caution with products containing benzocaine

Previous advice included sparingly applying an OTC antiseptic containing benzocaine directly to the irritated tooth and gum for temporary relief. But benzocaine has been linked to a rare and serious, sometimes deadly, condition called methemoglobinemia, which decreases the amount of oxygen that the blood can carry. So follow these guidelines:

• Talk to your dentist or doctor before using an OTC antiseptic containing benzocaine.
• Don’t use any products that contain benzocaine — such as teething gels with benzocaine (Anbesol, Orabase, Orajel, others) — in children younger than 2 years old.
• Never use more than the recommended dose of benzocaine.
• Store products containing benzocaine out of the reach of children.

Call your dentist

Call your dentist immediately if you have any of the following with a toothache:

• Pain that persists for more than a day or two
• Fever
• Signs and symptoms of infection, such as swelling, pain when you bite, red gums or a foul-tasting discharge
• Trouble breathing or swallowing

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Show references

1. Dental emergency. American Dental Association. http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/d/dental-emergencies. Accessed Oct. 5, 2017.
2. Top ten dental symptoms — Symptom: Toothache. American Dental Association. http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/top-dental-symptoms. Accessed Oct. 5, 2017.
3. Toothache and infection. Merck Manual Professional Version. http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/dental-disorders/symptoms-of-dental-and-oral-disorders/toothache-and-infection. Accessed Oct. 5, 2017.
4. What causes a toothache? Academy of General Dentistry. http://www.knowyourteeth.com/infobites/abc/article/?abc=T&iid=337&aid=1362. Accessed Oct. 5, 2017.
5. FDA drug safety communication: Risk of serious and potentially fatal blood disorder prompts FDA action on oral over-the-counter benzocaine products used for teething and mouth pain and prescription local anesthetics. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/ucm608265.htm. Accessed June 6, 2018.
6. Benzocaine and babies: Not a good mix. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/forconsumers/consumerupdates/ucm306062.htm. Accessed Oct. 5, 2017.
7. Decay. American Dental Association. http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/d/decay. Accessed Oct. 8, 2017.
8. Salinas TJ (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Oct. 11, 2017.

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What are the best painkillers for toothache?

Pain management in dentistry is of the utmost importance and can improve clinical outcomes. But it can also be a challenge. Work on the hard tooth structure does not usually result in excessive pain. Rather, the major cause of pain is often an inflammatory response which activates pain-producing mediators in the soft tissue. So the key lies in knowing if damage has already been done to the pulp and soft tissues, and whether or not treatment will create more of an inflammatory response. If so, the dentist must decide which analgesics (pain relief without the use of anesthesia or loss of consciousness) to administer, either pre or postoperatively, to relieve pain. Here are a few painkillers the dentist might prescribe:

Acetylsalicylic Acid (Aspirin)

This is one of the most well-known and most widely used pain killers in the world. In fact, it was the first nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) discovered. It reduces fever and works as an anti-inflammatory. It also reduces clotting, which is why many physicians prescribe it to help prevent strokes and heart attacks. For this reason, aspirin is not a good painkiller to use if you knock out a tooth (avulsed) or the dentist extracts it. Aspirin is not recommended for patients who are allergic to any NSAIDs, under the age of 16, or who have asthma or uncontrolled hypertension. Some side effects can include stomach irritation, indigestion, or nausea.

Ibuprofen or Ketoprofen

Many consider this to be the best over the counter painkillers for dental pain. This is another NSAID that is generally well tolerated, only producing some gastro-intestinal upset a few patients. Also, ibuprofen is often used in addition to paracetamol, to relieve more severe pain and add the anti-inflammatory. However, you should not use ibuprofen if you are asthmatic and be sure and read the label for other warnings and contradictions.

Acetaminophen or Paracetamol

Generally physicians prescribe this painkiller for minor headaches, muscle aches, backaches, fevers, and toothaches. Instead of reducing inflammation, these painkillers hinder the transmission of pain by blocking nerve signals to the brain. It is commonly used for patients who are allergic to NSAIDs and cannot take aspirin or ibuprofen. However, an excessive use of paracetamols can result in liver damage, especially when it is combined with other painkillers. This is why you should not take acetaminophen if you have severe liver disease.

Naproxen

Naproxen is another NSAID that reduces swelling, and to a degree will help alleviate pain. It works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation in the body. Typically physicians prescribe naproxen for swelling associated with menstrual cramps, bursitis, gout, arthritis, tendinitis, or ankylosing spondylitis. It can work on dental pain as well, to some degree. Note, if you have a history of allergic reactions to aspirin or other NSAIDs you should not use naproxen. And you should not take in higher doses or for longer than prescribed, as it can increase your risk of stroke or heart attack.

Co-codamol

This is a mixture of paracetamol and codeine phosphate that physicians prescribe for short-term pain relief. It comes in different strengths and works like acetaminophen. It reduces the production of prostaglandins (pain receptors in the brain) while the codeine phosphate mimics the action of endorphins produced in the spinal cord and brain to reduce pain. Some common side effects of co-codamol can include constipation, nausea and vomiting, dizziness, and drowsiness. You should not take co-codamol if you are allergic to codeine or paracetamol, or if you have respiratory depression, asthma, or liver failure.

Diclofenac

Physicians often use diclofenac to treat mild to moderate pain. It is another NSAID that reduces substances that cause pain and inflammation in the body and is stronger than Ibuprofen. Doctors usually prescribe it to treat symptoms of arthritis, menstrual cramps, or migraine headaches. Common side effects can include indigestion, diarrhea, headache, drowsiness, stuffy nose, or increased blood pressure. Diclofenac can also increase your risk of stroke or heart attack and can cause stomach or intestinal bleeding. Tell your doctor if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding, asthma, and liver or kidney disease. 

Tramadol

Doctors generally prescribe tramadol for moderate to severe pain and it is a narcotic-like painkiller. It is an opioid analgesic that acts on the central nervous system (CNS) and works in the brain, changing how your body responds to pain. You should not take this painkiller if you have breathing problems, severe asthma, or blockage in your stomach or intestines. Common side effects might include headache, dizziness, drowsiness, constipation, nausea, stomach pain, feeling anxious, or sweating.

Homeopathic options

For minor pain there are also several things you can do for temporary relief. Some of the most common options include ice packs, clove oil, and a topical anesthetic. You can also rinse your mouth with salt water and apply an icepack. These will reduce swelling and alleviate pain until you can have your tooth looked at by a dentist.

Whether the pain comes sharp and fast, or as a dull, lingering ache—tooth pain is distressing. It can stem from dental trauma, sores, exposed dentin or tooth decay, broken or cracked teeth, or infection. If the pain is excruciating, the first thing you want to do is get in touch with your dentist and seek treatment for the underlying cause as soon as possible. The dentist can then prescribe these prescription or over the counter pain medications to get you relief. As with any medication, you must use it exactly as directed or your physician prescribes. And if you show any signs of allergic reaction, including hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing, get emergency medical help. 

4 Tips To Soothe A Toothache Before Your Appointment

SUDDEN TOOTHACHES ARE painful and far from convenient in today’s busy world. However, getting to a dentist as quickly as possible is the best thing you can do to treat and relieve your pain as well as prevent any further problems.
Your Dentist Can Provide Effective Treatment And Long-Term Relief.

It’s important to remember that there is always an underlying cause for a toothache, such as decay, gum disease, clenching and grinding, or tooth enamel erosion. They usually never go away on their own and only get worse–and more painful–over time.

Paying a visit to the dentist as early as possible is the best course of action for tooth pain. Your dentist will not only relieve your pain and provide long-term relief, but will also work to treat the cause of your toothache, preventing further discomfort and damage in the future.

Take a page out of our crocodile friend’s book…

In The Meantime…

With that being said, we know that not everyone can come in to see us the moment they feel tooth pain. We also know that the time between the start of a toothache and actually getting to the dentist can be excruciating. Between making your appointment and getting to the dentist, try some of these at-home, temporary toothache remedies to help relieve your pain.

Over-The-Counter Pain Relievers

OTC pain relievers–such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen and the like–can provide short-term pain relief. If you use aspirin, swallow it as you normally would. Do NOT put it right on your tooth or gums as this will not relieve any pain and can damage the soft tissues of your mouth.

The best OTC method for tooth pain is actually to alternate ibuprofen and acetaminophen every 3 hours. Take ibuprofen (i.e. Motrin or Advil), then 3 hours later take acetaminophen (i.e. Tylenol), then 3 hours later ibuprofen, ect. Continue this regimen until you see your dental provider.

Salt Water

Swishing salt water around your mouth can help clean out an infected area and loosen any food debris present. This can help relieve some discomfort, depending on the cause of your toothache.

Garlic

Garlic is said to have properties that help it inhibit the growth of bacteria and temporarily relieve pain. Simply chew some garlic or mash a clove of garlic into a paste and apply it to your tooth.Warning: this remedy may cause severe bad breath!

Clove or Peppermint Oil

Both clove and peppermint oil contain natural anesthetics and can act as numbing agents. They are very strong and can do damage to your mouth’s soft tissues, however, so you’ll want to be careful. Drip a drop or two of oil onto a cotton ball and apply it to the throbbing tooth.

Be sure to check with your dental or health care provider before you try any of these at-home remedies, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions.

Don’t Wait To Treat Your Toothache

Remember, toothaches only get worse over time, so don’t wait to come in and see us. These at-home toothache remedies are meant to help with short-term pain relief and are in no way a substitute for the treatment and care you’ll receive from the trained professionals in our practice!

Our specialty is serving YOU!

The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.

90,000 Ibuprofen versus paracetamol (acetaminophen) for pain relief after surgical removal of lower wisdom teeth

Review question

This review, prepared by the Cochrane Oral Health Group, compared the efficacy of two commonly used pain relievers, paracetamol and ibuprofen, alone and in a single tablet combination, in pain relief after surgical removal of lower wisdom teeth.

Relevance

There are a huge number of wisdom tooth extractions performed worldwide, with approximately 63,000 extractions performed annually in National Health Service (NHS) hospitals.This has a significant impact on the quality of life of patients and many patients need a break from work. However, despite these consequences, people most often worry about pain after surgery, which can be very severe. It is assumed that the most severe pain is felt three to five hours after surgery. The pain experienced after oral surgery is widely used as a model for measuring the effectiveness of pain relievers in general.

Paracetamol and ibuprofen are often used to relieve pain after surgical removal of lower wisdom teeth.In 2010, a new pain reliever (with the brand name Nuromol) containing paracetamol and ibuprofen in one tablet was licensed for use in the UK.

All drugs studied in this review caused minimal side effects when used correctly for short-term pain relief.

Research characteristics

The evidence in this review is current as of 20 January 2013. This review included seven studies involving 2241 people head-to-head comparison between ibuprofen and paracetamol, or a combination.All participants underwent surgery to remove the lower tooth or wisdom teeth that required partial bone removal or that caused at least moderate to severe pain. The studies compared different doses of pain relievers that were taken after surgery.

Most of the studies were conducted in the United States, and one study was conducted in Puerto Rico. Four of the clinical trials were conducted at clinical research facilities, two at university dental hospitals, and one at a private dental surgery clinic.The ages of the participants varied slightly across the studies, but were broadly similar and ranged from 15 to 65 years old. All studies involved men and women.

All studies included in this review looked only at information on pain relief and pain intensity after taking a single dose of pain reliever after surgery. The pain is known to continue thereafter, and the drugs studied in this review are usually administered every six to eight hours (maximum four times a day).

Key findings

Ibuprofen was more effective than paracetamol at all doses studied in this review. Based on limited evidence, the combination of paracetamol and ibuprofen was no more effective than these drugs alone when evaluating the effect two hours after surgery. However, again based on limited evidence, the combination of these drugs was more effective than their use alone when evaluating the effect six hours after surgery. Participants taking the combination drug were less likely to require emergency medications.

Available information on adverse events in studies (including nausea, vomiting, headaches and dizziness) indicated that they were comparable between treatment groups. However, the review authors were unable to formally analyze the data, as it was not possible to find out how many adverse events there were.

Quality of evidence

All results (outcomes) comparing ibuprofen to paracetamol were of high quality.This means that further research is unlikely to change our confidence in the estimate of the effect.

When comparing the combination with the single drugs, the quality of the evidence for the proportion of patients with> 50% maximal pain relief at two and six hours was rated as moderate due to imprecise estimates based on single studies. This means that further research is likely to significantly affect our confidence in the estimate of the effect. The quality of the evidence for the use of drugs in an emergency was assessed as high.

90,000 Use of pain relievers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen before dental treatment in children and adolescents to relieve pain after treatment

Review question

Do pain relievers such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen help relieve pain after dental treatment?

Relevance

Toothache is common after dental interventions and can lead to increased fear of dental treatment, treatment refusal and other problems.Reducing pain is important, especially in children and adolescents. One way is to administer pain relievers prior to treatment, so that the pain relievers are already working during treatment.

The reviewers, together with the Cochrane Oral Health Group, developed this updated review to review the evidence for the use of pain relievers in children under 17 years of age who were treated without sedation or general anesthesia, but who may have received local anesthesia. Treatments included tooth extraction, tooth restoration, and braces (braces).

Research characteristics

We searched multiple electronic databases on January 5, 2016, and also performed additional manual searches. We included five studies in this review, involving a total of 190 people. We did not find any new research between the previous 2012 Cochrane Review and our updated January 2016 search.

Three studies included in the review were related to dental treatment (fillings and tooth extractions) and two other studies related to orthodontic treatment (braces / plates). Three of the five included studies compared paracetamol to placebo (sugar tablets) and four of them also compared ibuprofen to placebo.

Key findings

Based on the available evidence, we were unable to determine whether the use of pain relievers is beneficial for dental treatment under local anesthesia in children and adolescents.There is potential for benefit from using pain relievers before placing the braces / plates. Only one study reported an adverse event (one participant in each group had a lip or cheek injury) More studies are needed.

Quality of evidence

The risk of bias was not low in any of the included studies. The quality of the evidence is low.

How to urgently relieve a toothache at home

How to urgently relieve a toothache at home

Toothache is a lot of concern.It hurts when you smile or frown, eat or drink, when you clench or open your jaw, or turn your head. Sometimes it hurts even when you breathe because cold air rushes into your mouth and passes over a sensitive tooth.

If an attack of acute toothache happened late at night or on a weekend, and there is no way to run to a round-the-clock dental clinic, it remains to resort to emergency methods to temporarily relieve suffering.

Here are some proven guidelines for toothache relief at home

• Gently brush your teeth – remove all food debris from the interdental spaces and from the cavity in the tooth, and then keep it clean.
• Rinse your tooth with warm baking soda solution (1 teaspoon in a glass of water), you can add a drop of iodine.
• Suck on a piece of ice. You can also apply ice to a sore tooth or adjacent cheek for 15 minutes, at least 3 or 4 times a day.
• Massage your hand. It can relieve up to 50% pain when a tooth hurts. Rub an ice cube over the V-shaped area where your thumb and forefinger bones meet. Gently press the ice into this area in jerks for 5-7 minutes.The action of this procedure is based on the fact that during friction, impulses are sent along the nerve pathways along which toothache is normally transmitted. Because these pathways can only carry one signal at a time, friction drives out the pain.
• Don’t chew on the sore side.
• Keep your mouth closed if the flow of air over the aching tooth intensifies the pain.
• Keep your mouth open. Sometimes a toothache is aggravated by the fact that a person has a wrong bite. In this case, cover your mouth as little as possible until the dentist sees it.
• Take a pain reliever (ketanal, nurofen, analgin, baralgin), but do not get carried away – pain relievers in large quantities are harmful to the body. Do not take aspirin – its analgesic effect is small and you need to take it in large quantities that are unsafe for your health. It is necessary to stop taking painkillers no later than 3 hours before the visit to the doctor, because this can distort the picture of the disease and complicate the diagnosis.
• It is important not to do any warming compresses and lotions – this procedure can significantly worsen the situation and complicate further treatment.
• Do not take antibiotics! It is absolutely impossible to take them without a special doctor’s prescription. In general, taking antibiotics for any disease is a very responsible procedure. These drugs are taken according to a special scheme, and not 1 tablet 3 times a day, as is often thought.

These are all helpful tips you can follow before your dentist appointment. And do not be afraid of the clinic on duty, because in most cases it is possible to remove acute symptoms without tooth extraction.

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Toothache: causes, nature and relief of toothache

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Date of last update: 26.08.2021

Average Read Time: 5 minutes

Contents:

Possible causes of toothache
Nature of toothache
How to relieve pain
Complex treatment of dental diseases

Toothache is one of the most unpleasant sensations, familiar to almost all of us. Sometimes it is so strong that a person cannot enjoy life, sleep and eat, respectively, his mental and physical performance decreases.And the prospect of an upcoming dental treatment causes tension and fear ¹ .

Possible causes of toothache

Let’s see why sometimes teeth hurt a lot. The main reason is damage to the teeth themselves and the tissues surrounding them. Most often, such pain occurs with the following dental pathologies ² :

Toothache Educational Video

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The nature of toothache

The most common cause of a tooth ache is caries ³ . In the early stages, sweet, sour, hot, or cold foods may be painful. Discomfort disappears immediately after the stimulus stops acting ² . The deeper the caries, the stronger and longer the pain is felt ³ .

Gradually the carious process progresses, the pulp of the tooth becomes inflamed – pulpitis develops. This disease is characterized by severe, spontaneous, throbbing pain radiating to the adjacent teeth, temple, ear and even the eye, and intensifying in the evenings and at night ³ .

Launched pulpitis leads to the development of a more serious disease – periodontitis. Severe aching pain appears, which increases when biting or pressing on the tooth ³ . Patients often complain of a “grown tooth sensation” ³ .

Trauma is the second most common cause of tooth tissue integrity violation after caries ⁴ . Symptoms depend on the degree of damage and can manifest itself as short-term pain when touching the tooth, and sharp pain sensations from mechanical and thermal stimuli ⁴ .

Another reason people go to the dentist is pain when teething wisdom teeth. This process is characterized by the following symptoms: aching pain in the tooth area, soreness when opening the mouth and swallowing, fever, swelling of the mucous membrane and soft tissues of the face ⁵ .

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How to relieve pain

Experts believe that pain should never be tolerated. It must be stopped, because it harms the body – violates immunity, hormonal balance, etc.d ² . Severe pain can even affect mental balance, so the use of pain relievers for toothache is a necessary measure to maintain physical and mental health ² .

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used in dental practice ⁶ . If you are looking for pills that can help manage toothache, then look at Motrin®. It is a universal pain reliever, the active ingredient of which is naproxen ⁸ .It has not only a pronounced analgesic, but also anti-inflammatory effect ⁷ .

Medicines based on naproxen help to cope with toothache and last up to 12 hours ¹⁰ .

Keep in mind that uncontrolled use of NSAIDs can lead to serious complications from the gastrointestinal tract, cardiovascular system and kidneys ⁷ . Therefore, in no case should you engage in self-diagnosis and self-medication – take any drugs only as directed by your doctor.Do not forget that at home, taking remedies for toothache, you can only temporarily eliminate the pain, and not heal the tooth, so an analgesic drug is only a temporary measure. Once the pain pill stops working, the pain will return.

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Complex treatment of dental diseases

When a toothache hurts, a person has a question: how can this be cured? Unfortunately, not everything is so simple. In order to get rid of dental pain, it is important to find its cause, and this can only be done by a specialist.Therefore, if you have a bad toothache, do not indiscriminately take pills. First of all, go to the dentist for a consultation.

The tactics of dental treatment depends directly on the diagnosis. In case of caries, it is enough to put a filling ² , but pulpitis requires long-term treatment: removal of the nerve, filling the root canals with special materials, and only then – installing the filling. Sometimes, after filling, the tooth may ache when biting, but this symptom normally disappears within 2-4 days.

Complex dental treatment includes not only the placement of fillings, but also professional cleaning of teeth, and, if necessary, the manufacture of orthopedic structures and surgical interventions. This approach involves the well-coordinated work of several specialists: therapist, surgeon, orthopedist, periodontist and dental technician. This is the only way to achieve a good result ⁹ .

An untreated tooth can cause serious complications: sinusitis (inflammation of the maxillary sinus), periostitis (inflammation of the periosteum), abscess and phlegmon (purulent inflammation in soft tissues), osteomyelitis (necrosis of bone tissue) and the most dangerous of them – mediastinitis (inflammation of the organs) , including the heart, trachea, esophagus) ³ . If you have a toothache, do not postpone your doctor’s appointment indefinitely.

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The information in this article is for reference only and does not replace the professional advice of a physician. Consult a qualified professional for diagnosis and treatment.

References

1. Toothache and anesthesia in dentistry. Tilis S. Yu. Nurse. 2005. No. 8. S. 19-21.
2. Pain in dentistry.Dentistry problems. 2012. No. 2. S. 38-40.
3. Toothache. Akhmetzhanova Zh.O. Bulletin of surgery of Kazakhstan. 2011. No. 3 (27). S. 104.
4. Traumatic injuries of teeth in children. Terekhova T.N., Melnikova E.I., Minchenya O.V., Borovaya M.L. Minsk: BSMU. 2011.47 S.
5. Diagnosis and treatment of obstructed eruption of lower third molars complicated by pericoronitis. Poyarkova T.A., Voikovsky O.V., Kovaleva N.S., Stefantsov N.M. Bulletin of the Smolensk State Medical Academy.2014.Vol. 13.No. 3.P. 107-110.
6. Pharmacoepidemiological analysis of outpatient NSAID prescriptions in therapeutic dentistry. Samigullina L.I. Modern problems of science and education. 2012. No. 2. P. 62.
7. Naproxen: a universal analgesic with minimal risk of cardiovascular complications. Karateev A.E. Modern rheumatology. No. 2. 2016.S. 70-77.
8. Instructions for the medical use of the medicinal product Motrin® Tablets // Registration number P N002874 / 01 // State radar of the Russian Federation.- URL: https: //grls.rosminzdrav.ru/Grls_View_v2.aspx? RoutingGuid = 27b4d367-41fd -… (date accessed: 3.10.2020)
9. Complex dental treatment. Lutskaya I.K., Novak N.V., Ershov-Pavlov P.E. Modern dentistry. 2015. No. 2. S. 52-55.
10. Frick et al. Efficacy and safety of naproxen sodium and ibuprofen for pain relief after oral surgery. Ongoing Therapeutic Research. 1993. No. 54 (6). S. 619-627.

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90,000 How to relieve a toothache without medication

It is important to properly care for your teeth so as not to face the need to use medications
Photo: pixabaycom

What to do if a toothache hurts and painkillers are contraindicated for you? Food in the kitchen will come to the rescue.

Pain in your teeth or gums can ruin your day by making it impossible to eat, speak, or just concentrate on what you are doing. Unfortunately, there is often no way to go to the dentist right away, let alone endure pain along the way.You can of course take a pain reliever pill, but if you don’t have one on hand, natural remedies can help you.

Garlic . Garlic is known for many health benefits and one of them is to relieve pain in the teeth and gums. The fact is that garlic contains allicin, a substance with antibacterial properties. Just crush the clove and apply it to the aching tooth.

Salt water . As a natural disinfectant, salt water can help reduce gum inflammation and kill harmful microorganisms.Stir the salt in warm water and rinse your mouth. It will also help remove food particles that may be causing pain.

Essential oils . It may come as a surprise, but essential oils can also fight tooth pain. The main thing is not to overdo it with quantity. Just put a couple of drops on your finger and gently massage the sore spot.

Aloe Vera . An antibacterial agent, well known in folk medicine, can also be useful for pain in the teeth.Just apply the gel to the affected area and wait.

Tea bags . Tea leaves and stems contain high levels of tannins, which destroy disease-causing bacteria. For ease of use, you can take tea bags – just brew the tea as usual and hold the bag in your mouth for about five minutes.

Source: Medical Daily.

Toothache in a child – Smile

Dentists of the “Smile” clinic professionally solve such a problem as a toothache in a child using modern techniques and technologies.With us, the treatment will be quick and comfortable.

Even in an adult, the mere mention of a toothache evokes negative memories, needless to say, how hard it is for the child? At the same time, statistics show that every third baby under the age of 7 is susceptible to various dental diseases.

Regular complaints may become a reason to go to the dentist, refusing pharmacy and folk remedies. Stable pain means there is an infection in the mouth.

Why does a child have a toothache?

The causes of painful sensations can be completely different, but most often experts identify the following ones:

• Teeth are being cut. The growth of the first teeth in infants is often accompanied by swelling of the gums, fever, and discomfort.
• Caries. The milk tooth is covered with the finest enamel, which is subject to rapid destruction by bacteria. Too hot / cold food can create a microcrack, which later grows into a carious cavity, and it, in turn, will react to sweets or pressure when chewing.
• Pulpitis. Formed as a result of untreated caries. This is inflammation in the soft tissues of the teeth. It is characterized by acute and prolonged toothache, which the child cannot tolerate. Urgent treatment is needed to avoid spreading the infection to the jaw.
• Pain in the gums after tooth extraction. Immediately after surgery or the next 1-2 days, this is a normal recovery of the body, which can be facilitated with the help of pain relievers prescribed by the doctor.In a longer version, it is possible for an infection to enter the gum. The main signs are swelling, high fever, and bad breath. An urgent need to see a dentist.
• Another reason. Often, pain occurs when a piece of food is stuck between the teeth. You can remove it yourself.

How to relieve a toothache in a child?

At the first complaints of the child, the parents should conduct an independent examination of the oral cavity. Often a problem tooth is visible to a non-specialist.You should be wary of a change in the shade and structure of the enamel, red or swollen gums. Once you are convinced of your suspicions, make an appointment with your dentist.

Avoiding hard, hot or cold, sweet and sour foods can relieve pain and support your baby before the doctor’s appointment. It is recommended to solve a significant problem with the help of more “weighty” pharmaceuticals. Attention! Before using it, be sure to read the instructions and choose a method suitable for the child in terms of age, weight and physical reactions of the body to the constituent drugs.

As for the composition and form, first aid preparations for toothache in children are as follows:

• Tablets – “Nise”, “Ibuklin”, “Nurofen”, “Dentokind” and others. These funds are not only convenient to use, but also highly effective: they can eliminate pain for up to 4 hours, and have an anti-inflammatory effect. But it is worth remembering that they will not stop the progression of the disease.
• Suspensions – Panadol, Nurofen. They work the same way as tablets, but are more convenient for young children, as they have a sweet taste.

Beginning at the age of 12, a person can use most adult drugs.

Prevention is a guarantee of health, because the prevention of illness is better than its subsequent treatment. Regular check-ups with a pediatric dentist.

The listed medicines only temporarily relieve pain. A visit to the dentist should not be postponed for patients of age, since the doctor is able to find an effective method of treatment and maintain a healthy and beautiful smile.

Professional help with toothache in children

When choosing dentistry for a kid or a teenager, pay attention to the “Smile” clinic.The principles of our work:

• Comfortable conditions for recording, waiting and a complete list of dental procedures from therapy (elimination of acute pain, cleaning the root canal of a tooth, placing fillings) to maxillofacial surgery.
• Attentive attitude to each little patient, including not just treatment, but also psychological adaptation in front of him: games, joint watching cartoons, etc.
• The use of different methods of anesthesia: sedation, anesthesia, local anesthesia.
• Work using modern techniques with the latest instruments and drugs.
• Professional advice on dental health preservation, prophylaxis.

Both parents and children trust “Smiles” dentists.

what to do – dentistry President

Toothache is by no means a rare phenomenon during pregnancy. And even if you regularly visit the dentist, there is no one hundred percent guarantee that during the period of carrying a child you will not have problems with your teeth.What to do if pain still appears, is it possible to treat teeth during pregnancy and how to relieve acute pain before going to the dentist – about this in our article.

Contents

Causes of frequent toothache in pregnant women

Despite the different living standards and the nature of the course of pregnancy, even absolutely healthy women in the situation often complain of toothache and exacerbation of chronic diseases. This can be influenced by a number of factors:

• lack of vitamins and minerals;
• changes in metabolic processes in the female body;
• hormonal changes;
• Increased acidity of saliva as a result of toxicosis in the early stages.

When to see the dentist?

Dental problems during pregnancy can be avoided by not neglecting visits to the dentist. During this period, preventive examinations are especially important, so go to the doctor at least a couple of times during pregnancy. Remember that caries in the early stages is not always painful. The started inflammation is always more difficult to treat than the one that has just arisen. If you feel an increased sensitivity of your teeth to hot and cold, then all the more contact a specialist.During treatment, do not forget to inform your doctor about your situation.

On the treatment of teeth during pregnancy

The statement that it is impossible to treat teeth for pregnant women is nothing more than a myth. And a dangerous myth. If you feel pain while eating, be sure to make an appointment with your doctor. In pregnant women, caries progresses many times faster, and therefore, after a week or two, pulpitis may develop from a simple speck. In the early stages of treatment, you can do without anesthesia and X-rays, which means that the risk of harming the baby will be zero.

Ideal Time for Conversion – Second Trimester

The most favorable time for dental treatment for pregnant women is the second trimeter. For this period, as a rule, complex measures are planned, such as tooth extractions and prosthetics. You can fill your teeth at any time.

What pain relievers are allowed for pregnant women?

All modern anesthetics based on articaine and mepivacaine are approved for pregnant women. Only those painkillers that contain adrenaline should be avoided.It increases blood pressure, and therefore is not useful for a child.

What about X-rays?

Despite the general prohibition of X-rays for pregnant women, dental images can still be taken. True, not often with the use of specialized equipment and protection.

During pregnancy, it is allowed to take 1-2 pictures of teeth using a computer radiovisiograph. The radiation from this device is so small that it cannot harm the baby.In addition, during the procedure, a lead apron must be placed on the tummy. It provides additional protection against radiation exposure.

Emergency toothache

Suddenly a tooth ached – with whom does it not happen? But if time or state of health does not allow you to urgently see a doctor, take a pain reliever based on paracetamol. Do not swallow the entire pill at once, limit yourself first? -? norms. If that doesn’t work, have some more.

Paracetamol is one of the few medicines allowed for pregnant and lactating women.It not only helps to bring down the temperature, but also effectively cope with pains of various kinds. In many cases it is much better than “NO-SHPY” recommended by doctors. However, remember that paracetamol is excreted from the body 6-7 hours after ingestion, so you should not get carried away with breastfeeding.

Disease prevention

It is highly desirable to take care of dental health even during the planning period of pregnancy. At this time, it is recommended to go for an examination even if there are no complaints and if problems with teeth or gums are detected, eliminate them.

Immediately during pregnancy, you should be especially careful about oral hygiene; it will not hurt, with the permission of your doctor, to purchase a vitamin complex to strengthen your teeth. Additionally, you can revise the diet and make the diet more balanced. This, by the way, is useful not only for the teeth, but also for the figure.

That’s all the simple tips. Be healthy!

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