How to Stop Tooth Pain When You Can’t Afford a Dentist
By Dr. Eastwood – Summerbrook Dental & Implants, Fort Worth, TX
Tooth pain can be one of the most uncomfortable feelings you can have. It can make it hard to eat, sleep, or even think clearly. If you can’t afford to see a dentist right away, there are some steps you can take at home to get relief. But remember—these are only temporary solutions. Tooth pain almost always means something is wrong, and it will usually get worse without professional care.
First, try rinsing your mouth with warm salt water. This can help clean the area and reduce swelling. Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and swish for 30 seconds before spitting it out.
You can also use over-the-counter pain medicine like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Follow the directions on the package. These medicines won’t fix the problem, but they can make the pain easier to handle.
If you have swelling, you can apply a cold pack to your cheek for 15 minutes at a time. This may help numb the pain and reduce inflammation.
Another tip is to avoid very hot, cold, or sugary foods. These can make the tooth hurt more. Stick to soft, mild foods until you can get treatment.
At Summerbrook Dental & Implants, we understand that cost can be a barrier. We are a no-judgment office, and we work with patients to find solutions, including payment plans and third-party financing. If you are in pain, please don’t wait—sometimes we can save your tooth if we catch the problem early.
Temporary fixes can help for a short time, but the only real way to stop tooth pain for good is to treat the cause. If you’re struggling, reach out—we’re here to help you find a way forward.