Toothache: waiting for dental care

While waiting for the appointment

Choose soft foods and avoid chewing on the sore side. Avoid very hot, cold or sweet food if it triggers pain. Brush gently with fluoride toothpaste. A pharmacist can advise on appropriate pain relief, taking account of age, pregnancy and other medicines.

Do not put aspirin or caustic remedies directly on a tooth or gum. Antibiotics are not a substitute for dental treatment and are not needed for every toothache. Swelling around the eye or neck, or difficulty swallowing, speaking or breathing, requires emergency assessment.