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Toothache? Here’s what to do right now.

A toothache is your body telling you something’s wrong, and knowing what to do about it starts with a little relief while you figure out next steps. Call (702) 363-0444 if the pain is severe, or read on for what helps right now.

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What helps right now

These won’t fix the underlying problem, but they can take the edge off until you’re seen:

These are temporary measures. They buy you time. They don’t treat the cause.

An over-the-counter pain reliever. Ibuprofen tends to work better than acetaminophen for dental pain because it reduces inflammation, not just the sensation of pain. Follow the package directions, and check with your doctor first if you’re not sure it’s right for you.

Clove oil. A small amount dabbed near the tooth (not soaked into gauze and left there) has a mild, temporary numbing effect.

A cold compress on the outside of your face. This helps with swelling and general discomfort.

Avoid very hot or cold food and drink on that side while it’s sensitive.

Sleep with your head slightly elevated. Extra blood flow to the area at night can make throbbing worse lying flat.

What’s actually causing the pain?

Toothaches usually trace back to one of these:

• A cavity (the most common cause)
• A cracked tooth
• Gum disease
• An exposed tooth root
• A dental abscess
• A loose or damaged filling
• Occasionally, sinus pressure that mimics tooth pain

When is a toothache a dental emergency?

Call us right away if you notice:

These signs point to an infection that’s spreading, and that needs prompt care rather than a wait-and-see approach. If you want a fuller picture of how to tell whether your symptoms are a dental emergency, that guide walks through it.

• Severe pain that OTC medication isn’t controlling
• Swelling in your face, jaw, or neck
• Fever along with the pain
• Throbbing that spreads toward your ear or jaw

Why a toothache won’t go away on its own

The nerve inside a tooth doesn’t heal itself the way a cut on your skin does. Once it’s irritated or infected, the problem tends to spread rather than resolve, and a cavity far enough along to cause pain is past the point where it can remineralize on its own. Waiting usually means more complex, and more costly, treatment later. Our emergency dentist in Las Vegas can see you quickly and stop that progression before it gets there.

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Common questions

Will antibiotics fix my toothache?

Antibiotics can calm down an active infection, but they don’t fix the cavity, crack, or damage causing it. You’ll still need treatment once the infection is under control.

How long can I let a toothache go before it’s a problem?

There’s no safe number of days. If it’s mild and just started, call to schedule within a day or two. If it’s severe or comes with swelling or fever, call today.

Do I need an emergency dentist, or can I just wait for my regular dentist?

If you’re already a patient here, call the same number either way. We’ll tell you how soon you need to be seen.