If you're experiencing dental swelling and pain, the first step is to contact your dentist. They will be able to determine the cause of the inflammation of your gums and teeth and recommend the best treatment for you. At home, however, you can gargle with warm salt water, which will help eliminate bacteria. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, can also help reduce swelling and pain.
A cold compress is also a great way to reduce swelling and ease tooth pain. Wrap the ice pack in a cloth before placing it against your skin. Most cold compresses available on the market don't crease, so it can be difficult to get them to fit the curves of the face or neck perfectly. Instead of a commercial cold compress, you can make your own by wrapping some ice in a washcloth or towel.
Or, you can always put it in the freezer and pick up a bag of frozen corn or peas that will stay cold for a long time and adapt well to the contours of your face and neck. Pain relievers can also help you control your pain while you wait to see a dentist. Ibuprofen is the preferred pain reliever for dental abscesses, but if you can't take it for medical reasons, you can take acetaminophen instead. Dental insurance can help cover the costs of x-rays, exams and other treatments, as well as more expensive care, such as root canals. A tooth abscess is a buildup of pus in the teeth or gums caused by an infection. You need urgent treatment from a dentist.
A tooth abscess won't go away on its own. Antibiotics aren't routinely prescribed for tooth abscesses, but they can be used if the infection spreads or is particularly severe. You can reduce the risk of developing dental abscesses by keeping your teeth and gums as healthy as possible. Even if you practice good dental hygiene and take care of your teeth, you can end up with an infected tooth that needs to be treated right away. If you think you may have a vitamin C deficiency, talk to your dental and medical professionals, as they can determine how much you should add to your diet. If you experience any signs of tooth swelling, contact your dentist right away.
If you feel that the swelling is severe and requires medical attention, contact your dentist right away or visit the emergency room.