Oral Pain

Various factors, including dental issues, medical conditions, and lifestyle habits, might cause oral pain and discomfort. Some common causes of oral pain include tooth decay, gum disease, impacted teeth, abscesses, and even tooth damage and trauma.

If you are experiencing a toothache, it is critical that you immediately seek professional help. Ignoring the pain or trying to self-medicate can often lead to more serious problems and concerns down the line. Here are some steps you can take if you are experiencing oral pain:

1. Schedule an appointment with your dentist. The first step should always be to schedule an appointment with Dr. Eckland. They have the expertise and equipment to diagnose and treat any underlying issues causing the pain properly.
2. Rinse your mouth with saltwater. Warm salt water can help temporarily relieve pain due to minor irritation or infection. Mix half a teaspoon of salt in warm water and swish it around the mouth for about a minute before spitting it out.
3. Apply a cold compress. Applying a cold compress to the area will reduce pain and discomfort if you have swelling or inflammation. Wrap some ice in a towel or use a bag of frozen vegetables and hold it against your cheek for 10-15 minutes at a time.
4. Take over-the-counter pain medication. If the pain is too severe, you can take over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to alleviate the discomfort. However, this should only be temporary until you see Dr. Eckland.
5. Avoid hot, cold, and sweet foods. If your toothache is caused by sensitivity, it’s best to avoid extremes in temperature or overly sweet foods until you can receive treatment. These might aggravate the pain and make the discomfort worse.
6. Keep up with good oral hygiene. While experiencing oral pain, continue practicing good oral hygiene habits at home, like brushing twice daily and flossing daily. This will help prevent any further complications and maintain overall oral health.
7. Follow your dentist’s instructions for aftercare. After your appointment, follow any specific instructions Dr. Eckland gave for aftercare or any prescribed medication that may be needed.

Toothache treatment is a phone call away! Call Dr. Colby Eckland and his team at Redmond Smiles to request a visit to the 15965 NE 85th Street, Suite #201 office. We can be reached by telephone at (425) 584-1192 and are open to new patients and families in and around the community.