How to manage toothache at home before visiting a dentist
Let’s face it, there’s no pain quite like toothache. If you know, you know. That kind of pain that will humble even the hardest guy in Agege or turn a madam in Lekki into a quiet philosopher overnight. Whether it’s a dull throbbing, sharp stabbing, or that wicked one that won’t let you sleep, toothache can scatter your whole day.
What is toothache really?
Toothache is pain or discomfort in or around a tooth. It can range from mildly annoying to completely unbearable. Some people say it’s like having a small devil dancing inside your jaw with boots on. That pain is not your friend.
Toothache can be caused by several things:
- Cavities (aka tooth decay)
- Gum disease
- A cracked or broken tooth
- Abscess (infection)
- Teeth grinding
- An impacted wisdom tooth
In Lagos, with our traffic and stress level, small tooth pain wey dey start for morning fit turn serious by evening if you don’t act fast.
What causes Toothache?
Most toothaches come from ignoring the small signs. That little sensitivity to cold water? That mild gum bleeding after brushing? That pain you’ve been managing with chewing stick and agbo? All those are early warning signs.
Throw in the constant consumption of sweet things (thank you, gala and La Casera), bad brushing habits, and street food hygiene wahala – and boom, we’ve got full-blown pain.
But when pain catches you in the middle of 3rd Mainland Bridge traffic or just before Sallah rice, what can you really do?
How to manage toothache at home (for a while o)
First of all, managing at home is just a temporary solution. Toothache is not malaria. You can’t self-medicate and hope for the best. But while you’re trying to get to your dentist – preferably Platinum Dental Surgery – here’s what you can do:
Rinse with warm salty water
This old-school remedy still works. Salt helps reduce bacteria and inflammation. Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water, swish around the mouth for a few seconds, and spit out.
Apply a cold compress
Place ice in a towel and press it against the cheek near the painful area. It can numb the pain and reduce swelling. Works well if it’s caused by trauma or swelling.
Use over-the-counter painkillers (wisely)
Ibuprofen or paracetamol can help, but please don’t abuse them. Take the correct dosage. Avoid aspirin directly on your tooth or gums – it can burn the tissue.
Avoid trigger foods
Stay away from cold drinks, sugary stuff, or very hot foods. They will make it worse. If your tooth is cracked, avoid chewing on that side.
Sit upright when sleeping
Sleeping flat can increase blood flow to the head and worsen the pain. Use an extra pillow.
The street medicine problem (Avoid Them Like You avoid your Toxic Ex)
In Lagos, everybody knows one ‘toothache expert’ in the street. Someone will always suggest:
- Robb or balm directly on the tooth
- Mixing antibiotics and alcohol
- Chewing bitter kola with Panadol
- Even pouring ‘strong drink’ (like dry gin) directly on the gum
Please stop. Most of these things do more harm than good. You’ll just delay the real solution, worsen the infection, and spend more money later.
Why a dental clinic is the only real solution
Let’s be real: Lagos is tough. Between the fuel queues, traffic at Ojota, and trying to pay bills, nobody wants to add “tooth pain” to their problems. But if you don’t treat it professionally, na you go still suffer.
Dental clinics, especially trusted ones like Platinum Dental Surgery, can:
- Take x-rays to detect internal issues
- Clean out infections and fill cavities properly
- Recommend safe medications
- Perform proper root canal or extraction when needed
Platinum Dental Surgery: Toothache Pain Relief With Ease
We know how Lagos be. That’s why Platinum Dental has branches that are easy to access:
- Ikosi Ketu – 106 Aladelola Street (off Ikorodu Road)
- Lagos Island – 183 Massey Bamgboshe Street
- Ikeja – 107A Opebi Road
No matter where you’re coming from, we make it easy to get help. The clinics are neat, the staff are friendly, and most importantly – you’ll leave pain-free.
Prevention is better than shouting “Ye Ye ” at night
The best way to manage toothache is not to get it in the first place. Here’s how to avoid the wahala:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Use dental floss regularly (no, toothpick is not floss)
- Visit the dentist at least twice a year
- Reduce sugar and acidic snacks
- Don’t ignore small tooth pain – treat it early
Toothache can mess up your mood, your day, and even your pocket. Managing it at home can buy you time, but you still need to see a professional. Lagos life is already hard enough – no need to add dental drama.
If the pain starts, try the home remedies above. But make that call quickly. Reach out to Platinum Dental Surgery on:
📞 WhatsApp: 0803 373 8471, Call 0916 442 6114
🌐 Website: platinumdental.com.ng
Don’t let one small pain turn into a big emergency. Your smile – and your peace of mind – deserves better.
