A toothache could be telling you it’s time to seek urgent dental care. While you’re waiting for an appointment with an emergency dentist, there are some steps you can take at home to reduce your tooth pain.

1) Over-the-counter pain relievers.

For temporary pain relief, over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen, can help reduce pain and swelling. 

2) Rinse with warm salt water.

Rinsing your mouth out with warm salt water a few times a day is a tried and true at-home remedy that can help reduce swelling and bacteria.

3) Cold compress.

Gently placing an ice pack or cold compress to your face at the affected area can help reduce pain and swelling.

4) Garlic poultice.

Another proven at-home remedy for temporary pain relief is garlic. It’s not only tasty on food, but it also has beneficial medicinal purposes. You can either chew a garlic clove whole, or form a paste by mashing it and then applying it to your tooth. 

5) Hydrogen peroxide.

It will not relieve tooth pain, but it will help fight off infection and reduce bacteria left behind by food debris. Mix a small amount with warm water as a mouthwash solution.