Toothache

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