How to relieve toothaches

Toothaches can be caused by any number of things, including tooth sensitivity, a cavity, an abscess or braces. Your pharmacist, in partnership with your dentist, can help you find ways to ease the pain.

Tooth sensitivity

Do you get a sharp, sudden pain if you eat or drink something really hot or really cold? Does this also happen with sweet or acidic foods? If so, you may be suffering from tooth sensitivity.Tooth sensitivity can be due to damaged enamel or receding gums, among other factors. It can be prevented and treated as follows:

•     Maintain good oral hygiene.
•     Use a soft bristle toothbrush. 
•     Follow the brushing technique recommended by your dentist (no aggressive brushing). 
•     Reduce your intake of acidic foods and drinks, and when you do consume them, wait 30 minutes before       brushing your teeth. 
•     Use toothpaste or mouthwash specially formulated for sensitive teeth. 

If these measures fail to work, your dentist will be able to recommend different options, based on the severity of your pain.

Relief for various types of pain

A toothache can have several different causes. In every case, the answer is to consult your dentist to determine the specific source of your pain and its proper treatment. But until you get an appointment, here are some things you can do to find relief.

Cavity, broken tooth, damaged filing

•     Apply a cold compress to the affected area. If this makes the pain worse, use a lukewarm compress.
•     Take a pain reliever. Your pharmacist can recommend a product.
•     Rub oil of cloves on the painful tooth. 

It is extremely important to consult your dentist as soon as possible in order to receive the proper treatment and avoid complications.

Abscess

•     Apply a cold compress to the affected area. If this makes the pain worse, use a lukewarm compress.
•     Rinse your mouth with warm salt water (1/2 tsp [2.5 ml] in 1 cup [250 ml] of water) 4 times a day or with a               specially formulated medicated mouthwash (follow directions on the label).
•     Use an oral wound cleanser. 
•     Take a pain reliever. Your pharmacist can recommend a product.

See your dentist rapidly to receive appropriate treatment. Abscesses will not heal on their own.

Canker sore

•     Apply a cold compress to the affected area. If this makes the pain worse, use a lukewarm compress.
•     Rinse your mouth with warm salt water (1/2 tsp in 1 cup [250 ml] of water) 4 times a day or with specially                 formulated medicated, alcohol-free mouthwash (follow directions on the label).
•     Apply a local anesthetic (gel, ointment or liquid) directly on the sore.
•     Use an oral wound cleanser.
•     Cover the sore with a protective paste to avoid friction. 
•     Take a pain reliever.

Note: Do not apply salt on a canker sore. This old home remedy does not work and can be painful.

Injury due to orthodontic device (braces)

•     Place a piece of orthodontic wax on the part of braces causing the injury.
•     As a preventive measure, rinse your mouth with salt water (4 times a day).
•     Use an oral wound cleanser. 

Pharmacy services

If you are experiencing oral pain, remember that you can always consult your family pharmacist for advice and information on the right products that will provide you with optimal relief. Your pharmacists can also prescribe* medications for certain minor health problems, including canker sores, when the treatment and diagnosis are known.  A consultation will be required to make sure you meet the prescribing criteria. 

To avail yourself of this service, you may need to book an appointment with your family pharmacist. Ask a member of the pharmacy team for more details. Some Uniprix-affiliated pharmacies also offer an online appointment booking service. To locate the store nearest you providing this service, click here.