When you develop a toothache, it is very important to see your dentist as soon as possible. Dental pain can be a sign of tooth decay, an abscess or gum disease. While you wait for your emergency dental appointment, here are some tips for relieving your pain without compromising your treatment options.

1. Don't Take Aspirin

Although aspirin is an effective pain-relieving medication, dentists recommend that you do not take it before an emergency dental appointment. This is because aspirin increases the risk of excessive bleeding during emergency dental work. If you have taken aspirin before your appointment, be sure to let the dentist know.

2. Do Take Paracetamol

If you need to use pain relief, paracetamol is a much safer option. Paracetamol does not increase the risk of bleeding. However, it can cause liver damage if you take too much, so be sure to stick to the dose recommended on the packaging. If paracetamol is not an option for you due to an allergy or medical condition, ask your pharmacist for advice.

3. Rinse With Salt Water

If you cannot see a dentist right away, rinsing your mouth with salt water is a good way to reduce the risk of developing an oral infection. Salt water disrupts the growth of bacteria, so it can help to reduce their numbers and tackle infection. At your emergency dentist appointment, the dentist might also give you antibiotics to treat an infection or prevent one from developing.

4. Use an Ice Pack

Applying an ice pack to your cheek is an excellent way to reduce dental pain. Ice also reduces swelling, which can be present with many dental conditions. However, you should not apply ice directly to your skin as the extreme cold can damage skin cells. Wrap your ice pack (or bag of frozen vegetables) in a clean towel before you press it to your face.

Apply the ice for short periods throughout the day. Do not fall asleep with the ice pack against your cheek, as an excessively long period of icing could cause damage to the skin.

5. Don't Touch the Sore Spot

When you have a toothache, abscess or pain in your gum, it is very important not to poke or prod the sore part of your mouth. Putting your fingers in your mouth introduces bacteria, which could cause an infection. If you have an abscess, you also risk bursting it, which could be very painful. Resist the temptation to touch the sore spot before your dental appointment.

For more information, contact a company like Montmorency Dental Group.