Toothache can be a painful and debilitating experience that can make it difficult to eat, speak, or even sleep. Toothache can be caused by a variety of factors, including tooth decay, gum disease, and trauma to the tooth. Painkillers are a common treatment option for toothache, and there are many different types of painkillers available. In this article, we will explore some of the best painkiller medications for toothache.
- Ibuprofen
- Acetaminophen
- Naproxen
- Mefenamic Acid
- Aspirin
- Topical Analgesics
- Prescription Painkillers
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Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is commonly used to treat pain, inflammation, and fever. It works by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals that cause pain and inflammation in the body. Ibuprofen is available over the counter in various strengths, and is often recommended for toothache.
The recommended dosage for ibuprofen is 200 to 400 milligrams every four to six hours, as needed. It is important to follow the instructions on the packaging and to not exceed the recommended dose. Ibuprofen can cause stomach upset and other side effects, so it is important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns.
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Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen is another common painkiller that is often used to treat toothache. It is available over the counter in various strengths, and is often combined with other medications, such as codeine or caffeine. Acetaminophen works by blocking the production of prostaglandins, but it does not have anti-inflammatory properties like ibuprofen.
The recommended dosage for acetaminophen is 500 to 1000 milligrams every four to six hours, as needed. It is important to follow the instructions on the packaging and to not exceed the recommended dose. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if taken in large amounts, so it is important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns.
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Naproxen
Naproxen is another NSAID that is commonly used to treat pain and inflammation. This painkiller medication works by blocking the production of prostaglandins, and is available over the counter in various strengths. Naproxen is often recommended for toothache, especially if ibuprofen is not effective.
The recommended dosage for naproxen is 220 to 440 milligrams every eight to 12 hours, as needed. It is important to follow the instructions on the packaging and to not exceed the recommended dose. Naproxen can cause stomach upset and other side effects, so it is important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns.
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Mefenamic Acid
Mefenamic acid is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used to relieve pain, fever, and inflammation. It works by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals that cause pain and inflammation in the body. Mefenamic acid is not a commonly used painkiller for toothache, but it can be effective in some cases.
The recommended dosage for mefenamic acid is usually 500 milligrams every six hours, as needed, but this may vary depending on the individual and the severity of the pain. Like other NSAIDs, mefenamic acid can cause stomach upset and other side effects, so it is important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns.
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Aspirin
Aspirin is another NSAID that is often used to treat pain and inflammation. This painkiller medication works by blocking the production of prostaglandins, and is available over the counter in various strengths. Aspirin is often recommended for toothache, especially if ibuprofen is not effective.
The recommended dosage for aspirin is 325 to 650 milligrams every four to six hours, as needed. It is important to follow the instructions on the packaging and to not exceed the recommended dose. Aspirin can cause stomach upset and other side effects, so it is important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns.
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Topical Analgesics
Topical analgesics are painkillers that are applied directly to the affected area of the tooth or gums. These medications work by numbing the area and reducing pain and inflammation. Topical painkiller medications are mostly used for pain in gums. Topical analgesics are available over the counter in various forms, such as gels, creams, and patches.
The most common topical analgesics for toothache include benzocaine, lidocaine, and eugenol. These medications are often found in products such as Orajel, Anbesol, and Red Cross Toothache Medication. It is important to follow the instructions on the packaging and to not exceed the recommended dose.
It is worth noting that while topical analgesics can be effective in reducing pain, they are not recommended for long-term use or for use on broken skin or open wounds.
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Prescription Painkillers
In some cases, toothache may be severe enough to require prescription-strength painkillers. These medications are typically prescribed by a dentist or doctor and are used to manage more severe pain. Prescription painkillers include opioids such as codeine, hydrocodone, and oxycodone.
It is important to use prescription painkillers only as directed by a healthcare provider, as they can be highly addictive and can cause serious side effects. Additionally, prescription painkillers should only be used for the amount of time prescribed by a healthcare provider, as prolonged use can lead to dependence and addiction.
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Conclusion
Toothache can be a painful and uncomfortable experience, but there are many different painkiller medications available to help manage the pain. Ibuprofen, acetaminophen, naproxen, mefenamic acid, aspirin, and topical analgesics are all common options for managing toothache pain. In some cases, prescription-strength painkillers may be necessary to manage more severe pain. It is important to follow the instructions on the packaging or to talk to a healthcare provider if you have any concerns about using painkillers to manage toothache pain. Additionally, it is important to address the underlying cause of the toothache, such as tooth decay or gum disease, in order to prevent further pain and complications.
