What should I do if my toothache is so severe that I can't sleep?
Disease description:
My sister said her toothache was especially severe at night, keeping her awake. What should she do when a toothache is so bad it prevents sleep?
1. Cold or warm compress: Apply an ice pack or a warm towel to the painful area. A cold compress can help reduce pain and swelling, while a warm compress helps relieve muscle tension and discomfort. However, avoid placing ice directly on the skin to prevent frostbite.
2. Over-the-counter pain relievers: Medications such as ibuprofen or aspirin can help alleviate toothache. Always follow the recommended dosage on the label.
3. Use oral gels: Choose an oral gel containing benzocaine and apply it to the affected area to temporarily relieve tooth pain.
4. Avoid irritating foods: During a toothache, avoid spicy, very hot, or very cold foods, which may worsen the pain.
5. Acupressure: Apply pressure to bilateral Hegu points (LI4), or the unilateral Anmian point. For upper jaw tooth pain, you may also press the temporal region (temple) to help relieve discomfort.
While these methods may provide temporary relief, it is advisable to seek prompt dental care to identify and treat the underlying cause of the toothache.