Home first aid in dental health: How to act in case of toothache, swelling, or injuries?

How to relieve toothache with home remedies?

Toothache can be agonizing, especially at night, but there are several home remedies that can help alleviate it until your dental visit:

1. Pain relievers:
   Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory pain relievers, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, can temporarily relieve tooth pain. Always read the medication instructions carefully before use and follow dosing recommendations. If the toothache is very severe, your dentist may prescribe stronger medications.

2. Avoiding warm compresses:
   Although a warm compress may seem tempting, do not place a warm compress directly on the tooth. This can increase the spread of inflammation and promote pus accumulation. Using a cold compress is much more effective for reducing swelling and inflammation.

3. Clove as a natural pain reliever:
   Place a clove, known as a spice, into the tooth cavity for pain relief and hold it there for a few hours. Clove has natural numbing properties, but this is a temporary solution—be sure to see a dentist to resolve the issue permanently.

How to deal with swelling in the face or gums?

If you notice swelling in your face or gums, it may indicate an infection or abscess. Here are some first-aid techniques to help control the swelling:

1. Using a cold compress:
   Place a bag filled with cold water or ice cubes on the affected area to reduce swelling and numb the pain. Keep the cold compress on the affected area for about 20 minutes, but avoid prolonged exposure to ice to prevent frostbite.

2. Staying upright to reduce pain:
   Being lying down may worsen tooth pain as more blood accumulates in the head area. It is advisable to stay upright or use extra pillows to keep your head elevated and reduce pain.

3. Consulting a dentist:
   If the pain and swelling do not subside or worsen, definitely consult a dentist or oral surgeon. Quick action can prevent complications.

Nighttime toothache: Why does it intensify and what to do?

Toothaches tend to worsen at night because lying down increases blood pressure in the head area. Here are some suggestions on how to deal with nighttime toothache:

1. Elevating your head:
   Use two pillows while sleeping to keep your head elevated. This helps reduce blood pressure in the head area and alleviates pain.

2. Pain relievers and a calm environment:
   Take a pain reliever before bed and create a calm environment to help you sleep better. The tooth needs to be at rest and not irritated.

3. Morning dentist visit:
   Although these methods help temporarily relieve pain, it is important to contact a dentist in the morning to address the root cause of the issue.

What to do if a tooth is knocked out due to trauma?

If a tooth is knocked out along with the root, immediate and decisive action is necessary:

1. Cleaning the tooth root:
   Gently clean the tooth by rinsing it with water or milk. Avoid scraping the tooth or damaging the root.

2. Putting the tooth back in the mouth or a neutral environment:
   The best solution is to place the tooth back in its socket immediately. If that is not possible, place the tooth in neutral liquid (water or milk) and promptly consult a dentist. The best results are achieved if you visit a dentist within 30 minutes.

3. Baby teeth and injuries:
   If a baby tooth is knocked out, it does not need to be put back since it may harm the development of the permanent tooth. Place a sterile dressing on the wound and hold it until the bleeding stops.

What to do if there’s bleeding in the mouth area?

1. Sterile dressing to stop the bleeding:
   Place a sterile dressing on the wound and apply gentle pressure. If the dressing becomes very soaked with blood, replace it with a new one.

2. Seek immediate medical assistance:
   If the bleeding does not stop, promptly consult an oral surgeon or dentist.

Braces or dentures are poking – What to do?

If an orthodontic appliance or denture is poking or rubbing, it can cause discomfort and even sores:

1. Using wax:
   Place soft wax (e.g., dental wax) over the sharp edge or metal parts to protect your mouth from friction.

2. Visiting the dentist:
   Consult your dentist to resolve the issue before a deeper sore develops.