What To Do For a Toothache

Experiencing a toothache can be a painful and worrying situation. At Sala Family Dentistry in Reno, NV, we understand the urgency and discomfort that comes with dental pain. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps you should take when you have a toothache and how to temporarily alleviate pain until you can visit our office.

Don’t Wait To See The Dentist

This is our most important advice: Make an appointment at the first sign of tooth pain to avoid painful and costly procedures that may occur if you let the problem persist! We have emergency office hours for this reason and can fit you in much faster than many other offices in Reno. 

Identify the Cause of Your Toothache

Understanding what might be causing your toothache is the first step towards finding relief. Common causes include:

• Tooth decay: This is often the primary reason for toothaches and occurs when bacteria in your mouth create acids that eat away at your tooth enamel.
• Gum disease: Infections in the gums can also cause pain that feels like it is coming from a tooth.
• Cracked tooth: A crack in one of your teeth can develop over time and result in pain when chewing.
• Impacted tooth: Wisdom teeth, or other teeth that fail to emerge properly, can also lead to significant discomfort.

Immediate Steps to Take at Home

When you first notice a toothache, there are several home remedies you can try to alleviate the pain temporarily:

Rinse with Warm Salt Water

A simple salt water rinse can help reduce swelling and kill harmful bacteria. Mix half a teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water and use it as a mouthwash.

Apply a Cold Compress

For toothaches caused by trauma or swelling, applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek can help reduce inflammation and numb the area.

Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

Non-prescription pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can temporarily ease your toothache pain. Always follow the dosage instructions and consider any personal health conditions.

When to See a Dentist

Immediately! Even if the pain does not seem severe, make an appointment right away to avoid infection or other issues that can be painful and costly to remedy.

If you have these symptoms, please make an appointment right away: 

• The pain is severe or persists for more than a day.
• You have a fever, earache, or pain when opening your mouth wide.

These symptoms could indicate a more serious issue that requires immediate dental care.

Preventing Future Toothaches

Prevention is the best medicine when it comes to toothaches. Here are some tips to help keep your teeth healthy:

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Brush twice a day, floss daily, and use an antiseptic mouthwash to eliminate dental plaque. Make sure your toothpaste contains fluoride, and try to use dental products that have the seal of approval from the American Dental Association (ADA).

Regular Dental Checkups

Visit Sala Family Dentistry for regular checkups and cleanings. Catching issues early can prevent them from developing into serious problems.

Find Treatment Options at Sala Family Dentistry in Reno, NV

At Sala Family Dentistry, we’re committed to providing our Reno community with the highest quality dental care. If you’re experiencing a toothache, don’t hesitate to reach out to us immediately for expert advice and treatment options. Let us help you relieve your pain and keep your smile healthy and bright.