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May 26, 2013
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Toothache (cont.)

Medical Author:
Sara B. Trepanier, MD
Coauthor:
Ann S. Chinnis, MD
Medical Editor:
William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR
William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR
William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

Dr. Shiel received a Bachelor of Science degree with honors from the University of Notre Dame. There he was involved in research in radiation biology and received the Huisking Scholarship. After graduating from St. Louis University School of Medicine, he completed his Internal Medicine residency and Rheumatology fellowship at the University of California, Irvine. He is board-certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology.

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Toothache Treatment

Toothache Self-Care at Home

  • For toothaches
    • Over-the-counter pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) may be used. These should be taken these as directed on the package and around the clock on a schedule while the patient arranges a dental appointment.
    • Avoid very cold or hot foods because this may make the pain worse.
    • Relief may be obtained from biting on a cotton ball soaked in oil of cloves. Oil of cloves is available at most drug stores.
  • For jaw pain
    • Aspirin may be helpful for problems in the joint of the jaw in adults.
    • Acetaminophen (not aspirin) should be used for children and teenagers.
    • If pain occurs every time the patient opens their mouth widely, the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) may be the source of the pain. Yawning or taking a large bite of food may intensify the pain. An appointment with the doctor or dentist will help to determine the cause.

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Dental Abscess Bacteria from a tooth cavity can cause a dental abscess, or infection of the mouth, jaw or face. Symptoms include pain, swelling, facial redness, gum inflammati...learn more >>
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Gingivitis Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums surrounding the teeth. Gingivitis is caused by a bacterial infection of the gums. Symptoms may include pain, redness, ...learn more >>
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Toothache - Describe Your Experience

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Read What Your Physician is Reading on Medscape

Dental Abscess »

A dentoalveolar abscess is an acute lesion characterized by localization of pus in the structures that surround the teeth.

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