Many families keep various types of medication to deal with minor injuries or illness at home, such as fever or cough. But in fact, over-the-counter medicines for toothache are often forgotten. Though toothache can be very annoying, because the pain can appear suddenly and is unbearable.
Handling of toothache depends on the specific cause. Toothache can be caused by a tooth condition or an unhealthy gum condition. Instead of seeing a dentist, we often prefer to use over-the-counter drugs for toothache to relieve complaints of pain and swollen gums. The question is whether free drugs of this type are effective in dealing with toothaches.
Guide to Taking OTC Drugs for Tooth Pain
It never hurts to consume drugs that are usually sold freely in pharmacies, but still pay attention to the dosage and conditions listed on the packaging. In general, these medicines are only to relieve pain, not to overcome the cause of toothache.
Below are toothache medicines that are sold freely and can be obtained without a doctor's prescription:
- Paracetamol. OTC drugs can be used to relieve toothache. Be sure to choose paracetamol specifically for children if you want to give it to your little one who has a toothache.
- Clove oil can be applied several times a day to relieve pain. Another way is to wet the cotton with clove oil and bite it near the problematic teeth. Be careful, do not sleep with cotton that is still in the mouth.
- Hydrogen peroxide specifically used as a mouthwash can also be used to relieve pain in the teeth and gums. But remember, this mouthwash is only used as an external medicine and should not be swallowed.
Although easy to obtain, but to avoid risk, there are still signs that must be obeyed when taking over-the-counter medicines for toothache, namely:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which are anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and mefenamic acid can indeed be obtained at pharmacies. However, this drug should be consumed after consulting a doctor.
- Especially adults who experience toothaches can apply benzocaine gel or mouthwash that can be obtained at pharmacies. But keep in mind that this drug is only appropriate for short-term use. This drug aims to provide immunity to the teeth from pain. But it is recommended not to give this drug to children under 2 years.
- Avoid consuming more than the dosage written on the drug packaging. Exaggerating a fixed dose will not make the pain disappear faster or reduce pain longer.
- Always read the instructions for use on the packaging.
- Do not take drugs that have caused you to be allergic.
- Pregnant and nursing mothers are not advised to take drugs other than paracetamol, unless prescribed by a doctor.
Dental Pain Treatment at Home
In addition to using over-the-counter medicines for toothache above, there are also ways to treat toothaches that can be done alone at home, namely:
- Avoid drinks or foods that are too cold, too hot, or too sweet.
- Compressing the cheeks on the affected tooth area with ice wrapped in a towel or cotton cloth. However, avoid putting ice directly on the tooth or gum that hurts.
- Gargling with salt water. This method can be done to overcome mild toothache.
The thing to remember is that over-the-counter medications for toothache pain relievers are often only needed to relieve pain while waiting for a doctor's visit. Check with your dentist if the toothache does not go away after two days or if the toothache is getting worse. Likewise, when a toothache accompanied by a fever. Fever can be a sign of serious infection.
In the end, both taking medication for prescribed and over-the-counter toothaches, it is important to consult the dentist first. This is especially important if you have a drug allergy, are taking other drugs at the same time, or are experiencing certain medical conditions. After the examination, your doctor will prescribe a toothache prescription medication that is right for you.
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