Taking care of a toothache at home

       Everyone will have a toothache at some point in their lives. Agony can strike suddenly and in varied degrees, ranging from a faint throb to a sharp and severe stabbing pain. Whatever amount of discomfort your toothache is generating, it can be rather stressful. And a toothache at night, when it interferes with your ability to sleep, may be a very dreadful experience.

What can I do at home to help alleviate the discomfort?

       If you are feeling significant pain, intense discomfort, or swelling in your mouth, teeth, or gums, please call us immediately and schedule an appointment to get it evaluated. If you have a mild toothache and can't get to the dentist right away, here are a few home treatments you can try to alleviate your discomfort: ? Apply a cold compress (or even a frozen vegetable bag) to the sore spot; Take pain medicines such as paracetamol and ibuprofen to help alleviate the discomfort; Brush your teeth with toothpaste designed specifically for sensitive teeth; Thoroughly floss (this might help to remove any trapped food that might be causing the pain.)

Why does the pain seem to be worse at night?

       One of the major reasons a toothache worsens at night is because your blood flow decreases as you sleep. When you lie down horizontally in bed, all of your blood goes to your head, putting pressure on the sensitive area where your hurting tooth is located. The powerful throbbing sensation that keeps you awake is caused by blood flow.

If this happens, consider sleeping with your head elevated, using pillows to support your head up so the blood doesn't put more pressure on your tooth. Don't dismiss your symptoms! Finally, if your toothache lasts longer than 1-2 days, DO NOT ignore it. A toothache is not something you can just ignore or 

self-medicate. It might be an infection, an abscess, or something more serious......or it could be something small. But don't take the chance. If you have a toothache, especially one that doesn't go away soon, here is the greatest place to be.