Reviewed By Dr. Tyler N Davis, DMD
Reading Time: 4 minutes
Tooth pain can strike at the worst times—when you’re trying to sleep, enjoy a meal, or trying to get through a busy day.
Whether it’s caused by tooth decay, gum disease, or a dental emergency, all you can think of is how to make it stop!
In this blog, we will share practical tips to relieve tooth pain fast and explain when it’s time to see your dentist for a permanent solution.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaway
To stop tooth pain fast, use remedies like warm salt water rinses, cold compresses, and over-the-counter pain relievers. However, tooth pain often signals underlying issues like tooth decay, infections, or nerve damage. For lasting relief and proper treatment, visit your dentist as soon as possible.
What Causes Tooth Pain?
Tooth pain is often a signal that something isn’t right with your oral health.
Here are common causes and the pain they typically produce:
1. Tooth Decay
Tooth decay starts when plaque buildup damages the enamel and exposes the underlying dentin (the softer layer beneath the enamel) or nerves.
You may feel sharp, stabbing pain when eating sweets, or drinking hot or cold beverages.
2. Gum Disease
Inflamed and receding gums expose tooth roots, which can lead to increased sensitivity and infection.
You may experience a dull ache or sensitivity when brushing near the gum line, with occasional bleeding.
3. Tooth Sensitivity
Worn enamel, exposed roots, or aggressive brushing habits can make sensitive teeth more reactive to temperature changes.
It might be a quick, sharp pain when consuming hot, cold, or acidic foods and drinks.
4. Tooth Abscess or Infection
Bacterial infections in the pulp of the tooth or surrounding gums cause swelling and intense pressure.
It is often described as a persistent, throbbing pain, accompanied by swelling, fever, or a bad taste in the mouth.
5. Dental Trauma or Cracked Tooth
Cracks or fractures expose the inner layers of the tooth, leading to nerve irritation.
You can experience sporadic, sharp pain when biting or chewing, especially on the affected side.
Fast Remedies for Tooth Pain Relief
Here’s how you can find temporary relief at home while waiting for professional care.
Warm Salt Water Rinse
Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water.
Swish the solution in your mouth for about 30 seconds, then spit it out. This rinse acts as a natural antibacterial agent and helps to minimize swelling.
Cold Compress or Ice Pack
Place an ice pack or wrap some ice cubes in a towel and apply it to the sore area for 15–20 minutes.
The cold helps reduce blood flow, which in turn numbs the pain and decreases inflammation.
Clove Oil
Clove oil has numbing and antibacterial properties.
Dab a small amount on a cotton swab or cotton ball, then gently apply it to the painful tooth.
Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse
Dilute equal parts of 3% hydrogen peroxide and plain water.
Rinse your mouth thoroughly to kill bacteria and reduce oral infections. Do not swallow the solution!
Garlic Paste
Crush a fresh garlic clove to make a paste.
Garlic contains allicin, a natural compound with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Apply it to the sore tooth for temporary relief.
Peppermint Tea Bags
Steep a peppermint tea bag in hot water and let it cool slightly.
Apply the warm tea bag to the painful area to soothe and numb the discomfort.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Non-prescription pain medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can ease severe toothache pain. Always follow the dosage instructions.
When to Seek Professional Care
These remedies can provide temporary relief, but they won’t address the root cause of your pain.
Schedule an appointment with your dentist if you experience:
- Persistent pain that lasts more than a day or two.
- Swelling in the face or gums.
- Signs of infection, such as pus, fever, or a foul taste in your mouth.
- A broken or fractured tooth.
If you “somehow” are able to ignore severe tooth pain, it can lead to complications like tooth loss, bone damage, or systemic health issues.
Long-Term Solutions for Tooth Pain
Your dentist will recommend treatments based on the underlying issue, such as:
- Dental cleanings to remove plaque buildup and prevent gum disease.
- Dental fillings or dental crowns to repair cavities and protect damaged teeth.
- Root canal therapy for infected pulp or abscessed teeth.
- Tooth extractions for severe cases of decay or damage.
Preventing Tooth Pain
Protect your teeth and gums with these simple oral hygiene habits:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and a soft toothbrush.
- Floss regularly to remove food particles and plaque between teeth.
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash to kill harmful bacteria (if recommended by your dentist).
- Avoid sugary and acidic foods that weaken enamel.
- Visit your dentist every six months for professional cleanings and check-ups.
Trust Your Emergency Dentist in Mesa, AZ
If you’re dealing with extreme tooth pain, don’t wait—seek professional care.
At Power Road Dental Care in Mesa, AZ, we provide personalized treatments to find the cause of your dental pain and restore your oral health.
📞 Call us at (480) 664-1438 to schedule your appointment at our dentist office in Mesa, AZ.
📍 Find us at 2500 South Power Road, Suite 102, Mesa, AZ.
FAQs
What is the 3-3-3 method for toothache?
The 3-3-3 method means taking 3 ibuprofen tablets (200 mg tablets, 600 mg total) every 3 hours, 3 times a day. This helps reduce inflammation and provides temporary pain relief. Always check with your dentist for proper treatment.
How do you stop nerve pain in your tooth ASAP?
To stop nerve pain quickly, rinse your mouth with warm salt water to clean the area, use a cold compress on your face to numb the pain, and take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen. Apply a small amount of clove oil directly to the tooth to provide quick relief.
How long will a toothache last before the nerve dies?
A toothache from a nerve issue can last days or weeks. If the nerve eventually dies, the pain may stop, but this often leads to more serious problems like infections or abscesses that require dental treatment.