Abscessed Tooth

Home Treatment

You may be able to reduce pain and swelling in your face and jaw from an abscessed tooth by using an ice pack on the outside of your cheek. (Do not use heat.) You can also try a nonprescription medicine to help relieve your face or jaw pain, such as:

• Acetaminophen, such as Tylenol. Acetaminophen can lower fever and relieve pain but does not reduce swelling.
• Medicines that reduce swelling. Examples include ibuprofen (such as Advil or Motrin) and naproxen (such as Aleve or Naprosyn).
• Aspirin, which can also reduce swelling. Some people should not take aspirin; these include pregnant women, people with a history of bleeding problems, and anyone younger than 20.

Be sure to read the label carefully and follow all nonprescription medicine precautions.

Call your dentist immediately if you have a severe toothache that has not improved after an hour or two of home treatment. If you have an abscessed tooth, the infection may be spreading.

Prevention

You can prevent an abscessed tooth by preventing bacterial infections in your mouth. The best way to prevent bacterial infections is to take good care of your teeth and gums:

• Brush your teeth 2 times a day, in the morning and at night, with fluoride toothpaste approved by the American Dental Association.
• Use dental floss to clean between your teeth every day.
• See your dentist for regular dental cleanings and checkups.
• Eat a healthy diet, and limit between-meal snacks.

After your abscessed tooth has been treated, you can help prevent further tooth problems:

• Brush and floss every day, and have regular dental checkups.
• Eat healthy foods, and avoid sugary foods and drinks.
• Don't smoke or use other types of tobacco. Tobacco use slows your ability to heal. It also increases your risk for gum disease and cancer of the mouth and throat.

For more information on how to brush and floss properly, see:

Dental care: Brushing and flossing your teeth.

For more information on general care of your teeth, see the topic Basic Dental Care.

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Author:	Jeannette Curtis	Last Updated: March 20, 2009
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Steven K. Patterson, BSc, DDS, MPH - Dentist
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