Here is some first aid for toothache

DENTAL MATTERS

Salt water rinse is an effective first-line of treatment for toothaches. Salt water is a natural disinfectant and it can help loosen food particles and debris that may be stuck in between your teeth. Treating a toothache with salt water can also help reduce inflammation and heal any oral wounds

Tooth aches are debilitating in nature and the worst thing is that a tooth can start aching suddenly and very excruciatingly. Therefore many of us are likely to recall how a toothache had interfered with our work or leisure at some point of time. Indeed if your tooth starts aching in the midst of work, suddenly at night or while you are travelling or on a vacation things can really get out of hand. Therefore here are certain things that can be done until you seek professional help.

1. Use of OTC medications: Over the counter medications like Ibuprofen, Paracetamol and Aspirin can be kept at home in a first aid kit. These drugs can relieve your pain temporarily until you can get professional help. They are very effective against mild to moderate pain.

2. Use of Cold Compress: A common mistake that most people do while handling a toothache is that they apply warm compression against the affected area (on the face or jawline). Instead one should take an ice pack and apply it. Cold compression will constrict the blood flow in the area and reduce the inflammation

3. Use of salt water rinse: Salt water rinse is an effective first-line of treatment for toothaches. Salt water is a natural disinfectant and it can help loosen food particles and debris that may be stuck in between your teeth. Treating a toothache with salt water can also help reduce inflammation and heal any oral wounds. To use this approach, mix 1/2 teaspoon (tsp) of salt into a glass of warm water and use it as a mouthwash.

4. Use of Hydrogen Peroxide rinse: Hydrogen peroxide is a disinfectant. It is effective against bacteria and reduces pain and inflammation. It should be properly diluted before use. Use one part of hydrogen peroxide with three parts of water.

5. Use of pepper mint leaves: Mint leaves soothe the area and can be used to alleviate the pain. The mint leaves should be ideally placed in a freezer before applying over the affected area in a paste form.

6. Use of garlic: Garlic has proven anti bacterial properties. Freshly cut garlic should be crushed into a paste and applied. It is better to add a bit of salt in the paste before application.

7. Use of clove: Clove has been used to relieve toothaches since ages. Clove can be crushed, made into a paste form and applied. If there is clove oil at home dilute it with any carrier oil like sun flower oil in a ratio 15:1 and apply it in the affected area by dabbing with cotton.

The above remedies are merely to keep the pain at bay for a very short duration. These remedies are never the alternative for correct treatment. It is advisable to seek professional help for any form of toothache as soon as possible.

By: Dr Swagat Pranam Sharma

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