Dec 5, 2025
Best Pain Relief Options for a Dental Emergency
By Dr. Leslie Patrick, DMD
When a dental emergency strikes, the pain can be all-consuming. Whether it's a throbbing toothache or a sharp pain from a cracked tooth, your immediate priority is relief. While the only way to stop the pain permanently is to treat the underlying cause, you need to be able to function until you can get into our chair.
At Smyrna Dental Studio, we hate to see our patients in pain. While we prioritize emergency appointments, we want you to be comfortable in the meantime. This guide outlines the most effective, dentist-approved options for managing dental pain safely at home.
Over-the-Counter Medications: The "Dental Duo" Strategy
For dental pain, which is often caused by inflammation, not all painkillers are created equal.
Ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin): This is an NSAID (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug). It is typically the most effective single medication for toothaches because it reduces the inflammation pressing on the nerve.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol): This works by blocking pain signals to the brain.
The "Combo" Strategy: Research shows that taking ibuprofen and acetaminophen together (or alternating them) can provide pain relief superior to many prescription opioids, without the side effects. Note: Always follow package dosages and consult your doctor if you have medical conditions preventing you from taking these drugs.
Topical Anesthetics (Numbing Gels)
Products containing benzocaine (like Orajel or Anbesol) can offer temporary relief.
Best For: Gum pain, irritation from a broken tooth edge, or surface-level soreness.
Limitations: They cannot penetrate the tooth to stop deep nerve pain. Use sparingly to avoid irritating the tissue.
Home Remedies That Actually Help
Cold Compress: Apply an ice pack to your cheek for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off. This numbs the area and is crucial if you have any swelling.
Warm Salt Water Rinse: Mix 1 teaspoon of salt in warm water. Swish gently. This draws out fluid from inflamed gums and kills surface bacteria.
Clove Oil: A tiny dab of clove oil on a cotton ball applied to the tooth (not the gum) contains eugenol, a natural anesthetic used in dentistry.
FAQs: Pain Relief Questions
Can I put an aspirin right on the tooth?
No. This is a dangerous "old wives' tale." Aspirin is an acid (acetylsalicylic acid). If you let it sit on your gums or cheek, it will cause a painful chemical burn (ulcer) that can hurt worse than a toothache. Always swallow the pill.
Will antibiotics stop the pain?
Antibiotics kill bacteria; they do not kill pain directly. While they will eventually reduce the swelling caused by an infection (which relieves pressure and pain), it typically takes 24-48 hours for them to kick in. You will still need pain medication in the meantime.
Why does my tooth hurt more when I lie down?
When you lie flat, blood pressure in your head increases. This increased pressure pushes against the inflamed nerve inside your tooth, causing the "throbbing" sensation to worsen. Sleeping with your head elevated on two or three pillows can significantly help.
Do you prescribe stronger painkillers?
If over-the-counter options are not touching the pain, we can prescribe stronger pain management solutions during your emergency visit. However, our primary goal is to perform the treatment (like opening the tooth to drain it) that stops the pain at its source, often removing the need for heavy narcotics entirely.
Don't Suffer in Silence
Pain medication is a bridge, not a destination. It buys you time, but it doesn't fix the problem. If you are relying on painkillers to get through the day, your body is telling you that you need professional help immediately.
We are here to get you out of pain for good. Contact Smyrna Dental Studio immediately for an emergency appointment.
