Suffering from dental pain or swelling?
How to fix it the right way
Have you ever experienced unbearable tooth pain? If yes, you would know that dental pain can become a nightmare if not treated properly and how useful it is to know ways you can reduce your suffering till the dentist comes to your aid.
What is causing your dental pain and swelling?
The most common cause for dental pain and swelling is tooth decay. When you neglect tooth decay it can eventually lead to an infection that could be severe.
Different causes could be:
gum problems, wisdom tooth eruption, sensitivity , abscess(pus formation), food/debris stuck between teeth, loss of previous tooth filling, trauma to the tooth, improper dental care etc.
In case of dental pain/ swelling it is essential to visit your dentist immediately and follow up upon the instructions/treatment procedures advised by them. In case you are unable to visit a dentist immediately you can practice the following methods to relieve pain/ your symptoms:
Cold compression: In case of swelling or dental pain treat the area with an ice pack (ice wrapped in towel). Cold compression helps with the pain as it constricts the blood vessels. Apply an ice pack for a duration of 10-15 mins in 2-3 hours.
Saline gargle – take a tablespoon of salt, mix it with lukewarm water, gargle with the water. Saline water acts as an antibacterial, which helps with the infection causing pain. It can also wash away debris stuck between your teeth.
Mouthwash – you can use chlorhexidine mouthwash. Mouthwash should be used at least 30 minutes after brushing.
Head position– Dental pain might increase during the night, it is advised to elevate your head (use a pillow or two) to reduce the pain.
Over the counter painkiller – ask your dentist if you can take OTC drugs for temporary pain relief if you experience intolerable pain. Painkillers will only give you relief for some time. It is not the treatment for your dental pain and swelling. (it is essential you tell your dentist about any systemic conditions and allergies you have and never exceed the recommended dose)
Avoid hot/cold beverages and acidic/sweet food – cold/ hot beverages will lead to sensitivity and discomfort if you already have dental pain/swelling.
Even acidic and sweet food can increase your dental pain as tooth decay can worsen in presence of sweet food.
Oral hygiene routine – continue brushing twice a day and flossing. It’s important to brush the right way (not too vigorously) and maintain good oral hygiene to prevent any further decay/damage.
Avoid hot compress/ fomentation – avoid applying heat on your face as it increases inflammation which will also increase the swelling.
Remember these above mentioned methods are not the definite treatment or ways to delay the treatment your oral health needs.
Prevention is better than cure!
Preventing dental pain:
The best way to prevent tooth pain and swelling is to visit the dentist every 6 months for dental check-ups. Follow a good dental routine, brush twice a day and don’t forget to floss.
Routine check-ups are an investment for a healthy oral health, taking care of minute dental problems beforehand leads to treatments which are less painful and affordable. Neglect causes these minute dental problems to lead to a situation where you have to suffer from tremendous pain and expensive treatment procedures. Dental problems left untreated can eventually affect the overall health. Remember dental treatment is not expensive but neglect is!
Dr Shagorika Choudhury
