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Use Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs as your first line. They’re proven more effective than opioids for most dental pain and carry fewer risks
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Identify whether the pain is sharp and brief or dull and lingering—each pattern suggests a different dental issue, needing different treatment approaches
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If your pain increases with cold, sweet, or touch, exposed dentine may be the cause. Use desensitising toothpaste and avoid acidic foods or drinks
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Antibiotics are rarely needed unless there’s facial swelling, fever, or infection. Overuse contributes to resistance and won’t fix the actual dental issue
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A local anaesthetic, gel or injection, can offer short-term relief while you wait for dental care. Ask a pharmacist or dentist if it’s suitable
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Pain that feels like it’s in a tooth may come from sinuses, jaw muscles, or nerves. Avoid misdiagnosis by noting associated symptoms and triggers
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Chewing on the sore side, drinking hot or cold drinks, or brushing too hard can aggravate pain. Be gentle and mindful to reduce flare-ups
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See a dentist as soon as possible. Only professional care—such as fillings, root canals, or extractions—can treat the source of the pain long-term
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Apply a cold compress on the outside of your cheek near the pain site. This reduces inflammation and provides temporary relief without medication
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Keep notes on when pain occurs, how long it lasts, what worsens or helps. This detail helps your dentist make a faster, accurate diagnosis