What Is Toothache?
You should see a dentist if you have toothache that lasts more than 2 days. MyHealthcare Clinic has award-winning dental practices using state-of-the-art equipment in Fulham, Wandsworth and Wimpole Street, Central London. Call 0207 099 5555 now to book a private dental appointment. While you wait for an appointment you can take painkillers.
Go to A&E if you have toothache and:
· The area around your eye or your neck is swollen
· Swelling in your mouth or neck is making it difficult for you to breathe, swallow or speak
To see a dentist in an emergency or out of hours:
· Call your dentist – if they’re closed, their answerphone may tell you what to do
If you do not have a dentist or cannot get an emergency appointment:
· Call 111 – they can advise you what to do
· Find a dentist near you – ask if you can have an emergency appointment
Call 0207 099 5555 now to book a private dental appointment with MyHealthcare Clinic in Fulham, Wandsworth, or Wimpole Street, Central London. Same-day appointments available.
How to ease toothache while waiting for an appointment
Do
· Take painkillers, like ibuprofen or paracetamol (children under 16 should not take aspirin) – a pharmacist can advise you
· Try rinsing your mouth with salt water (children should not try this)
· Use a pain-relieving gel for your mouth – this can be bought from pharmacies or supermarkets
· Eat soft foods, like yoghurt or scrambled eggs, and try to avoid chewing with the sore tooth
Don’t
· Do not eat foods that are sweet, very hot or very cold
· Do not smoke – it can make some dental problems worse
Causes of toothache
Toothache can be caused by:
· Tooth decay
· A dental abscess
· A cracked or damaged tooth
· A loose or broken filling
· An infection – this often happens when a tooth (such as a wisdom tooth) has broken the skin, but does not have enough room to fully come through
· Problems with your braces
How to prevent toothache
The best way to prevent toothache is to keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible.
To do this:
· Have regular dental check-ups
· Cut down on sugary foods and drinks – only have them as an occasional treat at mealtimes
· Brush your teeth twice a day for about 2 minutes with a fluoride toothpaste
· Clean between your teeth using floss or an interdental brush every day to remove food, debris and plaque