Easing wisdom tooth discomfort at home
Five things to try tonight, and the signs that mean you shouldn't wait for an appointment.
Pain relief
Pain relief
Easing wisdom tooth discomfort at home
When a wisdom tooth starts to push through, the ache can arrive fast — often in the evening, right when the practice has closed. The good news is that most flare-ups can be calmed at home while you wait for an appointment.
Five things that usually help
- Warm salt-water rinses. Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and swish gently for 30 seconds, two or three times a day. It soothes inflamed gum and helps keep the area clean.
- A cold compress. Ten minutes with a wrapped ice pack against the cheek reduces swelling and dulls the ache.
- Over-the-counter pain relief. Taken as directed on the packet, ibuprofen tackles both pain and swelling — check it's suitable for you first.
- Soft foods. Give the area a rest with soup, yoghurt and pasta, and chew on the other side where you can.
- Keep it clean. Keep brushing gently around the tooth; trapped food makes the soreness worse, not better.
When you shouldn't wait
Book to be seen promptly if swelling spreads to the jaw or neck, you develop a fever, there's a bad taste that won't shift, or you struggle to open your mouth or swallow. These can signal an infection that needs treating rather than riding out.
This is general information, not a substitute for an examination. If you're in pain, get in touch and we'll find you a slot.