Toothache: what to do until you see a dentist

Toothache usually has a cause that will not go away on its own: deep caries, or inflammation of the nerve or the gum. Painkillers only help for a while.

Until your visit

• Rinse your mouth with lukewarm water.
• Avoid very cold, hot or sweet food on the painful side.
• Do not put aspirin on the gum and do not warm the area.

When to call straight away

If your face swells, you have a fever, difficulty swallowing, or the pain wakes you up at night, call us for a same-day appointment.