Dental pain
DENTAL PAIN
Rajan, a 62 year old male, has a toothache.
He’s due to have a filling in two days and can’t get an earlier appointment. Watch the video to learn more about dental pain and what specific questions you could ask to find out more about his condition, to help manage his pain effectively.
CUSTOMER SUMMARY
Rajan is due to have a filling in a couple of days and is experiencing toothache
He has tried paracetamol and ibuprofen together, but they aren’t relieving the pain
RAJAN’S OVER THE COUNTER TREATMENT OPTIONS
Rajan's treatment
Paracetamol or ibuprofen individually, or combined, may ease pain until he can see a dentist. However, for more severe dental pain, such as Rajan's pain, it may not be enough. Effervescent formats of Solpadeine can provide fast pain relief, especially when a person has a sore mouth and swallowing may be difficult.
HOLISTIC PAIN MANAGEMENT ADVICE:
There are several ways Rajan can ease dental pain including:14
Eating soft foods
Using a saltwater rinse
Avoiding flossing around the sore tooth
Using a soft toothbrush
Avoid foods that are sweet, very hot or very cold
Do not smoke – it can make some dental problems worse
Brush teeth twice a day for about 2 minutes with a fluoride toothpaste – you can show Rajan a suitable option
Rajan should be encouraged to have regular dental check-ups, but to see his dentist additionally if:
He experiences symptoms lasting more than two days
Painkillers are not providing sufficient relief
There is pain or swelling in the cheek or jaw
He has a fever
He has a bad taste in his mouth
He experiences pain when biting, or inflamed gums.
Rajan should seek urgent medical attention if he has swelling around the eyes or neck or if swelling in the mouth is affecting his ability to breathe.
Rajan should be referred to his dentist for dental pain rather than his GP. GPs will not be able to provide dental treatment to resolve the underlying problem.14
