Tooth pain rarely picks a good moment. These steps won’t fix the cause, but they can make the wait more comfortable until a dentist can see you.

When not to wait: if you have severe swelling of the face or neck, trouble breathing or swallowing, or bleeding that won’t stop, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Call us first

During office hours, the phone is the fastest way to reach us. We’ll ask a few questions and tell you how soon we can see you. You can also send a request and choose Emergency visit; requests are read during office hours.

Steps that can help in the meantime

• Rinse with warm water to clean the area.
• Floss gently around the tooth — sometimes a trapped bit of food is the cause.
• Use a cold compress on the outside of your cheek, for short periods, if there’s swelling.
• Take an over-the-counter pain reliever exactly as the label directs, if it’s safe for you. If you’re not sure, ask a pharmacist.

What to avoid

• Don’t put aspirin or any painkiller directly on the gum — it can burn the tissue.
• Avoid very hot, very cold or sugary food and drinks on that side.
• Don’t ignore pain that goes away on its own. It can come back, and it’s still worth a check.

Other problems worth a call

• A broken or chipped tooth — keep any pieces and rinse your mouth with warm water.
• A lost filling or crown — keep the crown and bring it with you.
• A knocked-out tooth — call right away; time matters.