To stop tooth pain immediately, reduce inflammation and numb the nerve. A cold compress, salt-water rinse, or clove oil can provide short-term relief. Persistent pain requires dental treatment to fix the underlying cause.

Tooth pain can start suddenly and feel intense. Many people want fast relief. Immediate remedies focus on reducing swelling and calming the tooth nerve. These methods help temporarily, but they do not treat infection or decay. Knowing when to seek dental care is important.

What Causes Sudden Tooth Pain?

Tooth pain happens when the inner pulp becomes inflamed. This is usually caused by decay, cracks, infection, or exposed roots. The nerve inside the tooth reacts to pressure and bacteria, leading to sharp or throbbing discomfort. If the pain becomes severe or is linked to swelling or infection, seeking Emergency Dental Services Aberdeen can help diagnose the cause quickly and provide appropriate treatment.

Emergency Dentist Near Me in Aberdeen

Immediate Remedies That May Stop Tooth Pain

• Cold compress – Reduces swelling and numbs the area.
• Warm salt-water rinse – Cleans the mouth and reduces irritation.
• Clove oil – Contains eugenol, a natural numbing agent.
• Diluted hydrogen peroxide rinse – Helps reduce bacteria.
• Over-the-counter pain relief – Reduces inflammation when used correctly.

These options provide short-term comfort only.

How to Reduce Tooth Pain at Home (Step-by-Step)

1. Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water.
2. Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek for 15–20 minutes.
3. Use a small amount of clove oil on a cotton bud and place it on the painful tooth.

Repeat only as needed. Avoid chewing on the sore side.

Opening hours of NHS dental clinics in Aberdeen

When Is Tooth Pain an Emergency?

Seek urgent dental care if you have:

• Swelling in the face or jaw
• Fever
• Pus or bad taste in the mouth
• Difficulty swallowing
• Pain lasting more than 48 hours

These signs may indicate an abscess or infection.

Get Fast Relief at Holburn Dental & Implant Centre

If your tooth pain does not settle or keeps returning, professional treatment is important. At Holburn Dental & Implant Centre, our experienced team provides urgent dental assessments and tailored treatment to address the cause of your discomfort.

Whether you need emergency care, a filling, or root canal treatment, we are here to help restore your comfort and protect your oral health. Contact Holburn Dental & Implant Centre today to book an appointment and receive prompt, professional care.

FAQs (People Also Ask)

How can I stop tooth pain instantly at home?

Use a cold compress or rinse with warm salt water. These reduce swelling and help numb the nerve temporarily.

Why is tooth pain worse at night?

Lying down increases blood flow to the head. This increases pressure in the tooth and makes pain feel stronger.

Can tooth pain go away without treatment?

Mild irritation may improve. Pain from decay or infection usually requires dental treatment.

What is the fastest pain relief for a toothache?

A cold compress combined with an anti-inflammatory pain reliever often works fastest for swelling-related pain.

Should I brush a painful tooth?

Yes, but gently. Keeping the area clean helps prevent worsening infection.

Author

Reviewed by: Dental Team
Clinical guidance based on general dental best practices.

Last Updated

20 February 2026