Gum or Tooth Pain

Most dental pain can be treated effectively if assessed early. Seeing a dentist promptly can prevent worsening problems and help preserve your teeth. Many dental clinics provide walk-in or next-day appointments.

Visit the Emergency Department if you have:

• Profuse gum or tooth bleeding that does not stop despite applying pressure with gauze.

Visit the GP or Polyclinic if you have any of the following:

• Tooth or gum pain with significant swelling seen externally over the jaw with fever, pus, or foul taste in the mouth.
• A broken tooth due to trauma.

What you can do:

• Rinse with Warm Salt Water: A simple and effective remedy. Mix about half a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water and swish it around your mouth. The saltwater rinse can help reduce swelling and clean the area around the affected tooth or gum.
• Apply a Cold Compress: If the pain is accompanied by swelling on your face or jaw, apply a cold pack wrapped in a towel to the outside of your cheek for 15-20 minutes at a time. This can help numb the area and reduce inflammation.
• Use Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Medications like paracetamol can help manage the pain.
• Avoid Irritants: Steer clear of very hot or very cold foods and drinks, as they can worsen the pain, especially if you have a cavity or exposed nerve.
• Avoid Hard or Sugary Foods: Chewing on hard foods can further aggravate a sensitive tooth. Sugary and acidic foods can also worsen pain, especially if the tooth has decayed.
• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: The best long-term strategy for preventing toothaches and gum pain is consistent, good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and use an antibacterial mouthwash.

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