A toothache can be one of the most frustrating and painful experiences. Whether it’s a dull ache or sharp, throbbing pain, finding quick relief is essential. The right toothache medicine can help ease discomfort until you get proper dental treatment.
Here we’ll cover:
✔ Best over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medicines for toothache relief
✔ Natural home remedies for temporary pain relief
✔ When to see a dentist for professional treatment
What Causes a Toothache?
Tooth pain can have many causes, including:
🔹 Cavities – Decay that reaches the nerve can cause severe pain.
🔹 Gum Disease – Infection in the gums can lead to swelling and discomfort.
🔹 Tooth Abscess – A bacterial infection that causes throbbing pain and swelling.
🔹 Cracked or Broken Tooth – Exposed nerves cause sharp pain when chewing.
🔹 Sensitivity to Hot or Cold—Worn enamel or receding gums expose the dentin, causing tooth sensitivity.
🔹 Sinus Infection – Sometimes, sinus pressure can mimic tooth pain, especially in the upper teeth.
Best Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medicines for Toothache
For mild to moderate tooth pain, OTC pain relievers can help reduce inflammation and discomfort.
1. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
✅ Best for: Inflammation and moderate pain
✅ Dosage: 200-400 mg every 4-6 hours (max 1200 mg/day)
✅ How it works: Reduces swelling and pain by blocking inflammatory chemicals.
2. Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
✅ Best for: Mild pain (not inflammation-related)
✅ Dosage: 500-1000 mg every 4-6 hours (max 4000 mg/day)
✅ How it works: Affects the brain’s pain signals, making pain feel less intense.
3. Aspirin
✅ Best for: Mild tooth pain and inflammation
✅ Dosage: 325-650 mg every 4-6 hours (max 4000 mg/day)
✅ How it works: Reduces inflammation and blocks pain signals.
Warning: Do NOT place aspirin directly on the tooth or gums—it can cause a chemical burn!
4. Naproxen (Aleve)
✅ Best for: Long-lasting pain relief
✅ Dosage: 220 mg every 8-12 hours (max 660 mg/day)
✅ How it works: Strong anti-inflammatory that lasts longer than ibuprofen.
5. Benzocaine (Orajel, Anbesol)
✅ Best for: Instant numbing relief
✅ How it works: A topical anesthetic that numbs the area within minutes.
✅ How to use: Apply a small amount directly to the affected area.
🚫 Warning: Avoid using benzocaine in children under 2 years—it can cause serious side effects.
Best Prescription Medications for Severe Tooth Pain
If OTC medicines don’t work, a dentist may prescribe:
1. Prescription Painkillers (Opioids)
🔹 Examples: Codeine, Hydrocodone (Vicodin), Oxycodone (Percocet)
🔹 Used for: Severe tooth infections or post-surgery pain
🔹 Short-term use only due to risk of addiction.
2. Antibiotics for Tooth Infections
🔹 Examples: Amoxicillin, Clindamycin, Metronidazole
🔹 Used for: Abscesses, severe swelling, and gum infections
🔹 Must be taken as prescribed to clear the infection.
💡 Important: Antibiotics do NOT relieve pain directly but help stop infections that cause pain.
Natural Remedies for Toothache Relief
If you prefer home remedies, these options can help ease pain temporarily:
1. Salt Water Rinse 🦷
✔ Mix 1 teaspoon of salt in warm water
✔ Swish in your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit it out
✔ Helps reduce swelling and bacteria
2. Clove Oil 🌿
✔ Contains eugenol, a natural anesthetic
✔ Apply one drop to a cotton ball and place it on the tooth
✔ Provides temporary numbing
3. Cold Compress ❄
✔ Wrap ice in a towel and apply to the cheek for 15-20 minutes
✔ Helps numb pain and reduce swelling
4. Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse 🦷
✔ Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide (3%) and water
✔ Swish for 30 seconds, then spit out (DO NOT swallow)
✔ Kills bacteria and reduces inflammation
5. Garlic Paste 🧄
✔ Crush a garlic clove and mix with a little salt
✔ Apply directly to the affected tooth for pain relief
⚠ Note: These remedies don’t treat the underlying cause—they only provide temporary relief until you see a dentist.
When to See a Dentist for a Toothache
You should see a dentist immediately if you have:
❌ Severe, throbbing pain that won’t go away
❌ Swelling in the face or gums (possible abscess)
❌ Pain that spreads to the ear, jaw, or head
❌ Fever or bad taste in the mouth (signs of infection)
❌ Broken, cracked, or loose teeth
Ignoring a serious toothache can lead to worsening infection, tooth loss, or even life-threatening complications.
Toothache Prevention Tips
To avoid future tooth pain, follow these simple dental care tips:
✔ Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
✔ Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
✔ Avoid excessive sugar and acidic foods
✔ Visit your dentist every 6 months for check-ups
✔ Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth at night
Conclusion
Toothaches can be miserable, but the right toothache medicine can provide fast relief until you get proper treatment. OTC pain relievers, numbing gels, and natural remedies can all help, but seeing a dentist is the only way to fix the root cause.
If your toothache is severe or lasts more than 2 days, don’t ignore it—seek professional care to prevent complications.
FAQs
1. What is the fastest medicine for toothache?
Ibuprofen or acetaminophen works within 30-60 minutes. For instant relief, benzocaine (Orajel) numbs the area within minutes.
2. Can I use aspirin for tooth pain?
Yes, but DO NOT place it directly on the tooth—it can burn your gums.
3. What if painkillers don’t work for my toothache?
If OTC medicine doesn’t help, you may need antibiotics for an infection. See a dentist immediately if pain is severe.
4. Will antibiotics stop tooth pain?
Only if the pain is caused by an infection. Antibiotics do NOT relieve pain instantly—you still need pain relievers.
5. Can I cure a toothache at home?
Home remedies only provide temporary relief. You’ll still need a dentist to fix the root problem.
Got a toothache? Don’t wait—see a dentist before it gets worse!