Tooth pain never seems to show up at a good time. It's usually Friday night, or right before a trip.
First, don't panic. Most toothaches aren't true emergencies, but some are, and it helps to know the difference.
Call a dentist the same day if you have
- Swelling in your face or jaw
- A fever along with tooth pain
- A tooth that got knocked out or badly cracked
- Pain that keeps you up at night
If your face is swelling fast or you're having trouble breathing or swallowing, go to the ER. Don't wait for a dental office to open.
Things that help in the meantime
- Rinse with warm salt water
- Use a cold pack on the outside of your cheek, 15 minutes on and off
- Take an over the counter pain reliever the way the label says
- Don't put aspirin directly on the gum. It can burn the tissue.
If a tooth gets knocked out, pick it up by the top part (not the root), rinse it gently if it's dirty, and keep it in milk. Then call right away. Time really matters here.
We're on Mowry Ave in Fremont and we see emergency patients whenever we can fit them in. Our hours are Monday to Thursday 9 AM to 6 PM, Friday 9 AM to 5 PM, and Saturday 9 AM to 2 PM. We're closed Sunday. Call us at 510-797-6453.