A toothache is one the most severe types of pain felt by individuals. The intense distress is associated with a throbbing tooth pain can interrupt your entire night's sleep (in worst cases). The pain often begins as a mild sensation; however, it slowly extends to other areas of your mouth in gradual manner. It’s like the more you try to sustain the pain, the more it makes you feel awful!

In this blog, we will provide you with some useful advice for overnight toothache relief. For your convenience, we have also highlighted some of the most frequent causes for tooth pain below – helping you set up an urgent dental appointment in critical times. Read below to learn more.

Top 5 homely remedies to fix a toothache

Take a painkiller

This is the most useful thing when situations get extreme. Although over-the-counter pain relievers have temporary effect, they can significantly help minimise the inflammation over your affected tooth’s site. Read the label thoroughly and gulp down a pill as directed – that’s it. 

(Note: However, if you have any existing health condition or are using any other medications, consult with your doctor once to determine whether to take painkillers.)

Use the cold compressing technique

Toothaches that associate with swelling can be managed well with a cold compress. Ice packs are also good for minimising inflammation, reducing blood flow to the affected site. However, do not apply the cold pack directly on your skin. Instead, wrap the ice in a clean towel and hold it over the side of your face for at least ten minutes. Repeat the process for three to four times a day.

Rinse the mouth properly

Sometimes, stuck food remnants can also cause toothaches. Hence, it would be better if you can use an antiseptic mouthwash. If not available, do not worry. Add half a teaspoon of salt into a cup of lukewarm water and mix it thoroughly to make a uniform solution. Swish it into the mouth for at least 30 seconds and spit out – doing this simple home remedy can reduce oral bacteria and inflammation to a great extent. 

Put a mouth guard on

If you have bruxism, consider using a customised mouth guard before going to sleep at night. It will minimise the surface contact area between your teeth (especially the affected one) and external grinding forces. 

Apply a topical gel relief

Topical gels, such as, benzocaine, can be highly beneficial in achieving rapid pain relief. These gels also help prevent issues like dental infection, gum irritation, etc. ensuring optimal oral well-being in the long run. 

Some natural oils at your help

• Clove oil: It is an essential oil that has been used for ages to numb toothache sensations and reduce inflammation. Clove oil is one of the best natural analgesics.

How to use: First, dilute two to three drops of clove oil with base oil (either obtained from sunflower seeds or olives). Then, slowly dab a clean cotton ball and apply directly over the affected tooth region. 

• Vanilla extract: Other than ice creams, vanilla extract can also be used in tooth pain management. The natural chemicals present in vanilla extract soothe your dental nerves and help in healing.

How to use: Gently dab a small, clean piece of cloth in vanilla extract and use it directly over your pain site.

• Thyme: This is a herb used commonly in cooking. Thyme has antioxidant and antibacterial properties, making it one of the best and most effective solutions to remove toothache. (The usage procedure is same as the above).
• Peppermint tea: Available in the form of bags, peppermint tea can be a good numbing agent for easing tooth pain.

Usage directions: Take a warm peppermint tea bag and simply keep it over the site of your pain (inside the mouth). Within a few minutes, you will see notice a significant soothing effect. 

(Note: Even if you feel better after doing the above remedies, do not ignore a dental visit, because it is going to prevent painful recurrences.) 

Common causes of toothache: Explained

• Dental decay and cavities: These happen when bacteria, plaque and tartar accumulate for over a long period of time, damaging the tooth’s internal layers. Once the pulp gets infected, you will experience severe pain and tooth sensitivity.
• Infections and abscesses:Dental infections, abscesses, etc., can penetrate deep into the jawbone and surrounding soft tissues of your mouth. When left untreated for long, the infection enters the bloodstream, causing symptoms like swelling, fever, and pain.
• Fractured teeth: When any tooth gets cracked, it exposes the sensitive layers and nerves beneath it. You may not notice issues initially, but, with time, you will feel more pain (especially while eating and drinking).
• Sinus infections: The sinuses are located near the upper dental roots; hence, any infection over there can lead to dental pain. This is generally associated with swelling due to fluid accumulation, causing extreme pain and discomfort.
• Impacted teeth: When the last set of molars (or wisdom teeth) starts to appear, the mouth does not have enough space to accommodate them. This results in impacted teeth and gum inflammation, characterised by debilitating dental pain.
• Periodontitis: Also known as ‘gum disease’, periodontitis can eventually lead to toothaches when left untreated for long. Also, it paves the way for future dental infections, weak jawbone, etc., ultimately resulting in tooth loss.

When do I visit an emergency dentist?  

Never sit back if a toothache does not improve with time. Consider your case as urgent and visit a dental clinic immediately if you face persistent dental pain along with the following signs:

• A chipped or cracked tooth that has worsened
• Abscessed teeth
• Bleeding gums
• Swelling in the face, eyes, neck and mouth
• Difficulty while breathing, swallowing, and speaking

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek help from an urgent dentist in London to prevent further complications and receive prompt treatment.

Conclusion

Toothaches happen whenever there is an underlying problem in your mouth; hence, seeking urgent medical is necessary (especially when you are being unable to sleep with the pain). With several private dental clinics available now, it is easy to manage toothaches and preserve overall oral health. The best part is that such initial consultations also minimise the need for more invasive treatments down the line – book your appointment at the nearest dental clinic today.