Emergency · Tips
Severe toothache at night: what to do while you wait for the dentist
Severe toothache is most often caused by inflammation or infection of the nerve inside the tooth. While you wait for your appointment, a few simple steps can relieve the pain, but only the dentist can treat the cause, often with root canal treatment.
What helps relieve the pain
- Take a painkiller you normally use, following the leaflet and the maximum dose.
- Sleep with your head slightly raised: lying flat makes the pain throb more.
- If your cheek swells, apply something cold wrapped in a cloth to your cheek, a few minutes at a time.
What not to do
- Do not put aspirin directly on the gum: it burns the lining of the mouth.
- Avoid heat on a swollen cheek, as well as very hot, very cold or sugary food on the painful tooth.
Who to call
- During opening hours, call Maison du Sourire: we assess your situation and do our utmost to offer you an emergency appointment the same day.
- In the evening and at the weekend, the Brussels dental on-call service gives the list of on-call dentists on 02 426 10 26.
- If the swelling comes with a high fever or makes breathing or swallowing difficult, call 112.
Key points
- Your usual painkiller and keeping your head raised help while you wait.
- Never put aspirin on the gum.
- Same-day appointment where possible at Maison du Sourire; dental on-call service on 02 426 10 26 in the evening and at the weekend.