How to relieve tooth infection pain?

Published OnJune 18, 2025

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How to relieve tooth infection pain?

How to Stop Tooth Infection Pain: Home Tips and When to See a Dentist

Have a throbbing tooth that won’t let you sleep?
You’re not alone. Tooth infections are more common than you might think — and while they can start small, they can lead to serious issues if ignored. This guide shares simple home tips to manage tooth infection pain and explains when it’s important to see a dentist. If you’re in Hyderabad, you can visit trusted clinics like Ocimum Dental in Jubilee Hills for safe and prompt care.

What Is a Tooth Infection?

A tooth infection, or dental abscess, occurs when bacteria enter the tooth through decay, a crack, or gum disease. The infection can cause swelling, intense pain, and if not treated, may spread to your jaw, face, or even other parts of the body.

If you live nearby, Ocimum Dental’s General and Family Dentistry services in Jubilee Hills are equipped to handle all types of tooth infections — from mild discomfort to urgent dental abscess treatment.

How Do You Know If Tooth Pain Is an Infection?

You might be dealing with an infection if:

  • The pain is deep, constant, or throbbing

  • It worsens when lying down or chewing

  • There’s swelling in your face or gums

  • You have a fever, bad taste in your mouth, or pus near the tooth

  • You feel pressure, especially at night

How to Stop Tooth Infection Pain at Home?

Salt Water Rinse

Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water. This helps reduce bacteria and soothes swollen gums.

Cold Compress

Apply a cold pack to the outside of your cheek. It helps reduce swelling and provides short-term relief.

Over-the-Counter Pain Relief

Painkillers like ibuprofen can help reduce inflammation and pain. Avoid applying aspirin directly on the tooth — it can cause damage.

Clove Oil

Clove oil has natural antibacterial effects. Soak a cotton ball and dab it on the affected area.

Garlic Paste

Crushed garlic is a natural antimicrobial. Apply gently to the area to ease pain.

Note: These are short-term solutions. They cannot remove the infection — only a dentist can do that safely.

What Happens If You Delay Treatment?

Even if the pain stops, the infection may still be active. Left untreated, it can:

  • Damage surrounding teeth or gums

  • Spread to your jaw or sinuses

  • Lead to serious health issues like sepsis in rare cases

When Should You See a Dentist?

Do not wait if:

  • The pain lasts more than 48 hours

  • You have swelling, fever, or trouble opening your mouth

  • You notice pus or ongoing bad breath

  • Pain worsens even after using home remedies

These signs mean the infection may be spreading — and urgent treatment is needed.

Can a Tooth Infection Heal on Its Own?

Unfortunately, no. A dental abscess will not go away without professional care. Pain may reduce for a time, but the infection remains and can return stronger.

Preventing Tooth Infections in the Future

  • Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste

  • Floss daily to clean between your teeth

  • Cut down on sugary snacks and drinks

  • Visit your dentist every six months for a check-up

  • Treat small cavities and gum problems early

A clean mouth and regular care can prevent most dental infections before they begin.

Tooth infection pain can be hard to ignore — and you shouldn’t. While home remedies can offer short-term comfort, only a dentist can treat the cause of the problem. If you’re experiencing pain, swelling, or signs of infection, don’t wait.

Need a dentist in Hyderabad?
Book an appointment with Ocimum Dental or find us easily on Google Maps. We’re here to help you feel better and smile freely again.