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How can you care for tooth and gum pain?
- To reduce pain and facial swelling, put an ice or cold pack on the outside of your cheek for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Put a thin cloth between the ice and your skin. Do not use heat.
- If your doctor prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.
- Ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve). Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
- Avoid very hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks if they increase your pain.
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water every 2 hours to help relieve pain and swelling. Mix 1 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of water.
- Talk to your dentist about using special toothpaste for sensitive teeth. To reduce pain on contact with heat or cold or when brushing, brush with this toothpaste regularly or rub a small amount of the paste on the sensitive area with a clean finger 2 or 3 times a day. Floss gently between your teeth.
- Do not smoke or use spit tobacco. Tobacco use can make gum problems worse, decreases your ability to fight infection in your gums, and delays healing. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about stop-smoking programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good.
Tooth and gum pain in teens: When to call
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You have trouble breathing.
Call your dentist or doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have signs of infection, such as:
- Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
- Red streaks leading from the area.
- Pus draining from the area.
- A fever.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your dentist or doctor if:
- You do not get better as expected.
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The content above contains general health information provided by Healthwise, Incorporated, and reviewed by its medical experts. This content should not replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Not all treatments or services described are offered as services by us. For recommended treatments, please consult your healthcare provider.