Dental pain can be sudden, sharp, or constant. It might stop you from eating, sleeping, or even talking properly. If you’re in Aberdeen and unable to access urgent dental care in Aberdeen immediately, you’ll need to manage the pain on your own for a short time. This guide will help you deal with the discomfort until your emergency appointment.
Understand What’s Causing the Pain
Before anything else, try to figure out why your tooth is hurting. The pain could come from:
- A broken or cracked tooth
- A cavity or tooth decay
- A lost filling or crown
- Gum disease or infection
- Something stuck between your teeth
Knowing the cause helps you choose the right way to ease the pain.
Rinse Your Mouth with Warm Salt Water
One of the easiest things to do is rinse your mouth. Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. Swish it gently around your mouth for 30 seconds. Do this a few times a day. Salt water helps clean the area, reduce swelling, and ease pain. It’s safe and simple.
Use Cold Compresses
If your face is swollen or your tooth hurts, try a cold compress. Wrap a bag of ice in a towel and press it against your cheek near the sore spot. Hold it there for 15 to 20 minutes. Take a break, then repeat. This can help reduce swelling and numb the pain.
Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relief
You can use painkillers to help manage tooth pain. Paracetamol and ibuprofen work well for most people. Always follow the instructions on the packet. Don’t take more than the recommended dose. If you’re not sure which one to use, ask a pharmacist. Do not place painkillers directly on the gum or tooth. This can cause burns and damage your mouth.
Avoid Very Hot or Cold Food and Drinks
Extreme temperatures can make dental pain worse. Avoid things like ice cream or hot tea. Stick to lukewarm foods and drinks. This helps stop sharp pain or tooth sensitivity from flaring up.
Eat Soft Foods Only
Try not to chew on the side that hurts. Avoid crunchy, sticky, or hard food. Choose soft things like soup, mashed potatoes, or yoghurt. This reduces pressure on your sore tooth and lowers the chance of more damage.
Keep Your Head Raised When Lying Down
Tooth pain can get worse at night. Lying flat can increase pressure and blood flow to your head. Use an extra pillow to keep your head higher. This may help reduce pain and help you sleep better.
Clean Your Mouth Gently
Even if it hurts, you must keep your mouth clean. Brush gently around the sore area. Use a soft toothbrush. Floss carefully to remove any trapped food. This helps prevent infection and stops the pain from getting worse.
Use Clove Oil
Clove oil is a natural remedy for tooth pain. It has been used for many years. Soak a cotton ball in clove oil and place it on the sore tooth. You can also dab it directly with a clean cotton bud. Be careful not to swallow it. It may taste strong, but it works well.
Avoid Smoking and Alcohol
Smoking and alcohol can make dental pain worse. They can also slow healing and increase infection. Try to avoid them while you’re waiting to see your emergency dentist.
When to Call an Emergency Dentist in Aberdeen
Some pain can be managed for a short while. But if you have any of the signs below, call an emergency dentist straight away:
- Swelling in your face or jaw
- Bleeding that won’t stop
- Fever with dental pain
- Pain that lasts longer than two days
- A tooth that is loose or knocked out
These could mean there’s a serious issue like an infection or abscess. It’s always better to be safe and get checked by a professional.
What Not to Do
While waiting for your appointment, avoid these:
- Do not poke the sore area with fingers or tools
- Do not use sharp objects to remove food
- Do not ignore signs of infection
- Do not use random online remedies without checking
These could make the problem worse or cause injury.
Stay Calm and Prepare for Your Visit
Try to stay calm. Dental pain is stressful, but help is on the way. Prepare for your emergency dental visit in Aberdeen by noting:
- When the pain started
- What makes it better or worse
- If you’ve taken any medicine
- Any swelling or fever
This helps your dentist understand the issue faster and start treatment right away.
Final Thoughts
Tooth pain can be unbearable, but there are safe ways to manage it until you see a dentist. Rinse with salt water, use a cold compress, eat soft food, and take proper medicine. Don’t ignore serious signs. Help is always available through an emergency dentist in Aberdeen.
Get Fast Relief at Cove Dental and Implant Centre
Don’t let dental pain take over your day. At Cove Dental and Implant Centre, we offer same-day emergency appointments to help you feel better quickly and safely. Whether you’re dealing with a broken tooth, swelling, or severe discomfort, our friendly team is here to help. Call now or book online to get expert care when you need it most.
Call us today to schedule your emergency visit. Your smile is our priority.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What can I take for tooth pain before seeing a dentist?
You can take over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen. Always follow the dosage instructions. Avoid placing painkillers directly on the tooth or gum. If unsure, speak to a pharmacist for advice. These steps can offer relief until you visit an emergency dentist in Aberdeen.
2. Is it safe to use clove oil for tooth pain?
Yes, clove oil is a natural remedy that helps numb pain. Apply it carefully using a cotton bud on the sore tooth. Don’t swallow it, and avoid overuse. While it may ease discomfort temporarily, it’s still important to see an emergency dentist for a proper solution.
3. What foods should I avoid with a painful tooth?
Avoid very hot, cold, sticky, or hard foods. These can make pain worse or damage your tooth further. Choose soft, lukewarm meals like soup or mashed potatoes. Eating on the opposite side of your mouth can also help reduce pressure on the affected tooth.
4. When should I see an emergency dentist in Aberdeen?
If you have severe pain, swelling, bleeding, fever, or a knocked-out tooth, contact an emergency dentist right away. These signs may point to an infection or urgent dental issue that needs fast treatment. Delaying care could lead to further problems or long-term damage.
5. Can I sleep with dental pain?
Sleeping with tooth pain can be difficult. Try propping your head up with extra pillows to reduce blood flow and pressure. Take pain relief and avoid eating before bed. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water beforehand. These tips may help you get some rest before your appointment.