Patient question
What to do about acute tooth pain
Call an emergency dental service. Until then take ibuprofen 400 or paracetamol 500, apply a cold compress to the outside of the cheek (not heat), and rinse with warm salt water. Avoid lying flat, sleep propped up on pillows. See a dentist within 24 hours.
Detailed explanation
Acute tooth pain is almost always inflammation. Inflammation shrinks with cold and grows with heat, so never apply a warm compress, warm water or anything hot. Cold compress on the outside for 15 minutes, 15 minutes off, repeat.
Painkillers. Ibuprofen 400 is the gold standard for tooth pain and is also anti-inflammatory. Paracetamol 500 is a supplement. Never combine with alcohol. Use for a maximum of 3 days without consulting a doctor.
Never do this. Alcohol, harsh ice-water rinses, aspirin placed directly on the tooth (it burns the soft tissue), or concentrated clove oil (it irritates the tissue). Do not pull the tooth yourself, even if it is loose.
When to go straight to hospital rather than a dentist. Facial swelling spreading toward the eyes or neck, difficulty swallowing or breathing, or a high fever. That signals spreading infection and a risk of sepsis. Call emergency services (155 in the Czech Republic) or go to the emergency department.
General information, not a substitute for an examination by a dentist. Updated 8 July 2026.