Note: If you require an emergency dentist appointment in Wellington, contact Simply Dental on 0800-123-343 or 044-739-283. Find out more here. 

Managing dental pain at home can be crucial when you’re unable to make a dentist appointment immediately. Here are some effective strategies and remedies to alleviate dental pain:

1. Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

  • Ibuprofen or Paracetamol: These medications can help reduce pain and inflammation. Follow the dosage instructions on the package.
  • Aspirin: Can also be used, but avoid placing aspirin directly on the tooth or gums, as it can cause a chemical burn.

2. Cold Compress

  • Ice Pack: Apply a cold compress or ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the outside of your cheek for 15-20 minutes. This helps reduce inflammation and numb the area.

3. Salt Water Rinse

  • Warm Salt Water: Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and rinse your mouth with it. This can help reduce swelling and cleanse the affected area.

4. Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse

  • Diluted Hydrogen Peroxide: Mix equal parts of 3% hydrogen peroxide and water, and use it as a mouthwash. This can help with pain caused by infections and reduce bacteria.

5. Clove Oil

  • Natural Analgesic: Dip a cotton ball in clove oil and apply it directly to the painful area. Clove oil contains eugenol, which has anaesthetic and antibacterial properties.

6. Garlic

  • Natural Antibacterial: Crush a garlic clove to make a paste and apply it to the affected area. Garlic has allicin, which can help reduce pain and kill bacteria.

7. Peppermint Tea Bags

  • Cooling Effect: Place a cooled, used peppermint tea bag on the affected area. Peppermint has numbing properties that can provide temporary pain relief.

8. Vanilla Extract

  • Alcohol-Based Solution: Dab a small amount of vanilla extract onto a cotton ball and apply it to the sore area. The alcohol content can provide a numbing effect.

9. Elevation

  • Elevate Your Head: Keep your head elevated when lying down. This can help reduce blood flow to the painful area, decreasing inflammation and pressure.

10. Avoid Certain Foods

  • Stay Away from Hard, Crunchy, or Sticky Foods: These can exacerbate the pain.
  • Avoid Hot or Cold Foods and Beverages: Extreme temperatures can aggravate the pain.

11. Good Oral Hygiene

  • Gentle Brushing and Flossing: Keep the area clean to prevent further infection, but be gentle to avoid aggravating the pain.

12. Hydration

  • Drink Plenty of Water: Staying hydrated can help flush out bacteria and keep your mouth clean.

When to Seek Immediate Help

While these remedies can help manage dental pain temporarily, it’s important to make a dentist appointment as soon as possible, especially if you experience:

  • Severe, Unbearable Pain: Indicates a potentially serious issue.
  • Swelling in Your Face or Jaw: Could signal an infection.
  • Fever: Sign of an infection.
  • Difficulty Breathing or Swallowing: Indicates a serious condition that needs urgent attention.

Making a Dentist Appointment

Always consult a dentist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan to address the underlying cause of your dental pain.

To make a dental appointment in Wellington, contact Simply Dental.