A toothache is your body telling you something needs attention. Here’s how to manage it while you arrange to be seen.

While you wait

• Rinse gently with warm, salty water
• Take your usual pain relief as directed on the packet
• Avoid very hot, cold or sugary foods on that side
• Use a cold compress on your cheek for swelling

When to call us

If the pain is severe, keeps you up at night, or comes with swelling or fever, don’t wait it out — call us and we’ll get you in. We keep same-day appointments for emergencies.

For a life-threatening emergency, or swelling that affects your breathing or swallowing, call 000.