Best Painkiller for Toothache: What Actually Works for Fast, Safe Relief

Toothache is one of the most common reasons adults in the United Kingdom seek urgent dental advice. Whether caused by decay, infection, or damage, dental pain can be distressing and disruptive. Finding the best painkiller for toothache can help manage discomfort in the short term, but it is important to understand that painkillers manage symptoms rather than treat the underlying cause. Professional dental assessment remains essential for resolving the source of the pain.

What Is the Best Painkiller for Toothache?

The best painkiller for toothache is usually ibuprofen, as it reduces both pain and inflammation. Paracetamol can also relieve discomfort, especially for those unable to take anti-inflammatory medicines. However, painkillers only provide temporary relief and do not treat the underlying dental problem.

• Ibuprofen — reduces both pain and inflammation around the affected tooth
• Paracetamol — provides pain relief without anti-inflammatory action
• Combined use — ibuprofen and paracetamol may be alternated under professional guidance
• Short-term use only — painkillers should not replace dental treatment

Ibuprofen is often recommended as a first-line option because toothache frequently involves inflammation of the dental pulp or surrounding tissues. By reducing this inflammation, ibuprofen addresses a key component of the pain rather than simply masking it. Paracetamol works through a different mechanism, targeting pain signals in the central nervous system, making it a useful alternative for patients who cannot take anti-inflammatory medicines due to conditions such as asthma, stomach ulcers, or certain other health considerations.

It is important to follow the dosage instructions provided on the packaging or by a pharmacist. Taking more than the recommended dose does not improve pain relief and may increase the risk of side effects.

Is Ibuprofen or Paracetamol Better for Toothache?

Ibuprofen is generally considered more effective for toothache because it reduces inflammation as well as pain. Paracetamol can help with discomfort but does not address swelling. For some patients, alternating the two under appropriate guidance may provide more sustained relief than either alone.

The choice between ibuprofen and paracetamol depends on individual health circumstances. Patients with asthma, kidney problems, or a history of stomach ulcers should exercise caution with ibuprofen and seek advice from a pharmacist or GP. Paracetamol is generally well-tolerated but must be taken within recommended limits, as exceeding the maximum daily dose can cause serious liver damage.

In some cases, alternating ibuprofen and paracetamol at staggered intervals may offer more effective pain management. However, this approach should be discussed with a healthcare professional to ensure it is appropriate for your circumstances.

What Causes Toothache?

Toothache occurs when the nerve inside a tooth or the surrounding tissue becomes irritated or inflamed. The pain can range from a dull, persistent ache to sharp, intense discomfort, and identifying the underlying cause is essential for effective treatment.

• Tooth decay — the most common cause, where bacteria erode enamel and reach the sensitive inner layers
• Infection or abscess — bacterial infection at the root tip or in the gum, often causing throbbing pain
• Gum disease — inflammation of the gums that can lead to pain and sensitivity
• Cracked or fractured tooth — damage to the tooth structure exposing the nerve
• Impacted wisdom teeth — wisdom tooth problems can cause pressure and pain in the jaw

Whatever the cause, toothache that persists for more than a day or two typically indicates a problem that requires dental attention. An emergency dentist in London can assess the source of pain and recommend appropriate treatment to address the underlying issue.

Best Tablets for Toothache Available in the UK

The best tablets for toothache available over the counter in the UK are ibuprofen and paracetamol. Both are widely accessible from pharmacies and supermarkets without a prescription, and each offers a different approach to managing dental pain.

• Ibuprofen — an anti-inflammatory painkiller that reduces swelling and pain at the source
• Paracetamol — an analgesic that relieves pain through central nervous system pathways
• Combination therapy — alternating between the two may provide enhanced relief when appropriate

Always follow the guidance provided by your pharmacist when purchasing pain relief. Check for contraindications, especially if you are taking other medication, are pregnant, or have existing health conditions. Avoid prolonged self-medication, as this may mask a worsening dental problem.

What Prescription Painkillers Can a Dentist Prescribe for Toothache?

If over-the-counter painkillers do not provide adequate relief, your dentist may prescribe a stronger medication. Prescription painkillers are only issued when clinically necessary and are intended for short-term use alongside dental treatment, not as a long-term solution.

Depending on the severity of your pain and your medical history, your dentist may consider prescribing one of the following:

• Co-codamol — a combination of paracetamol and codeine, offering stronger pain relief than paracetamol alone
• Dihydrocodeine — an opioid-based painkiller sometimes prescribed for moderate to severe dental pain
• Mefenamic acid — a prescription anti-inflammatory that may be considered when over-the-counter options are insufficient
• Naproxen — a longer-acting anti-inflammatory alternative that may be prescribed for sustained pain management

Prescription painkillers, particularly those containing codeine or other opioids, carry a risk of side effects including drowsiness, nausea, and constipation. They may also interact with other medications. For these reasons, they are prescribed at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration.

Opioid-based painkillers also carry a risk of dependency if used beyond the prescribed course. Your dentist will only recommend these medications when the clinical benefit outweighs the risks, and they should always be taken exactly as directed. Self-prescribing or obtaining prescription painkillers without professional oversight is not advisable.

In most cases, prescription painkillers are a bridge to manage pain while the underlying dental problem is treated. The definitive solution for toothache is almost always dental treatment itself — such as a filling, root canal, or extraction — rather than ongoing medication.

What Helps Toothache Pain Fast at Home?

For fast relief at home, taking ibuprofen at the recommended dose is typically the most effective first step. In addition, several home measures can complement pain relief while you arrange a dental appointment.

• Cold compress — apply a cold pack wrapped in a cloth to the outside of the cheek for 15–20 minutes to help reduce swelling and numb the area
• Saltwater rinse — dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in warm water and rinse gently to help cleanse the area and reduce bacterial activity
• Clove oil — contains eugenol, a natural anaesthetic; a small amount applied to a cotton ball and placed on the affected area may provide temporary numbing
• Temporary dental gels — over-the-counter topical gels containing benzocaine can numb the surface of the gum around the painful tooth

These are short-term measures only and are not a substitute for professional dental care. If pain is severe, worsening, or accompanied by swelling, you should seek a dental assessment promptly.

When Should You See a Dentist for Toothache?

You should see a dentist if toothache lasts more than 48 hours, is severe enough to disrupt sleep or daily activities, or is accompanied by swelling, fever, or difficulty swallowing. These symptoms may indicate infection or another condition that requires prompt professional treatment rather than continued self-management.

Watch for the following signs that warrant prompt dental assessment:

• Facial swelling, particularly around the jaw or cheek
• Fever or feeling generally unwell
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing
• Pain lasting more than 48 hours despite taking painkillers
• A bad taste in the mouth or visible pus near the affected tooth

If you are experiencing persistent or worsening symptoms, arranging an urgent dental appointment allows a dentist to identify the cause of your pain and begin appropriate treatment. Early assessment can often lead to simpler, more comfortable treatment outcomes.

Can Antibiotics Cure Toothache?

Antibiotics may cure some toothaches. They are usually be prescribed when there is evidence of a spreading bacterial infection that is causing pain. Dental treatment, such as a filling, root canal, or extraction, is may be required.

In cases where infection has spread beyond the immediate area of the tooth — for example, causing significant facial swelling or systemic symptoms such as fever — a dentist may prescribe a short course of antibiotics to help control the infection before definitive treatment can be carried out. However, antibiotics alone will not resolve the source of infection.

Overuse of antibiotics contributes to antimicrobial resistance, which is a significant public health concern. For this reason, antibiotics are prescribed judiciously and only when clinically indicated, in line with current UK prescribing guidelines.

How to Use Painkillers Safely

Taking painkillers safely is essential for effective toothache management without risking side effects. Follow these guidelines when using over-the-counter pain relief:

• Follow maximum dose instructions — never exceed the recommended dose stated on the packaging or advised by your pharmacist
• Avoid mixing with alcohol — alcohol can increase the risk of stomach irritation with ibuprofen and liver damage with paracetamol
• Check other medications — some cold and flu remedies already contain paracetamol or ibuprofen, so check to avoid accidental double-dosing
• Avoid long-term self-medication — if you need pain relief for more than a few days, seek professional dental advice

Medical disclaimer: This article provides general information only and is not a substitute for professional dental or medical advice. Always read the patient information leaflet and consult a pharmacist, dentist, or GP if you are unsure whether a medication is suitable for you.

Why Treating the Cause Is More Important Than Masking Pain

While painkillers offer valuable short-term relief, it is important to remember that toothache is a symptom of an underlying problem. Relying solely on pain medication without seeking dental treatment can allow the condition to progress, potentially leading to more extensive treatment being needed.

Untreated tooth decay can deepen until it reaches the nerve, potentially requiring root canal treatment rather than a straightforward filling. Dental infections can spread to surrounding tissues or, in rare cases, to other parts of the body. Impacted wisdom teeth causing repeated episodes of pain or infection are unlikely to improve without professional intervention.

Addressing dental problems early typically results in simpler treatment, better outcomes, and less discomfort overall. If you are experiencing toothache, arranging a dental assessment is the most effective step towards lasting relief.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the strongest painkiller for toothache?

For over-the-counter options, ibuprofen is generally considered the most effective painkiller for toothache because it addresses both pain and inflammation. If pain persists despite taking recommended doses, you should seek dental advice rather than increasing the dose or switching to stronger medication without professional guidance.

How long can I take painkillers for toothache?

Over-the-counter painkillers for toothache are intended for short-term use only, typically no more than a few days. If you find yourself needing pain relief for longer than 48 to 72 hours, this suggests an underlying dental issue that requires professional assessment. Prolonged use of painkillers can carry health risks.

Can toothache go away without treatment?

Some mild toothache may settle on its own, particularly if caused by temporary sensitivity. However, toothache caused by decay, infection, or damage will generally not resolve without dental treatment. Pain that disappears suddenly may indicate that the nerve has died, which can lead to abscess formation and requires professional care.

Is it safe to combine ibuprofen and paracetamol?

Ibuprofen and paracetamol can be taken together or alternated, as they work through different mechanisms. However, you should follow recommended doses for each medication separately and seek advice from a pharmacist or dentist if you are unsure. Do not take multiple products containing the same active ingredient.

Do I need antibiotics for toothache?

Antibiotics are not routinely prescribed for toothache. They may be considered when there are signs of spreading infection, such as facial swelling or fever. Most dental pain requires treatment of the underlying cause, such as a filling or extraction, rather than antibiotics alone.

What is the fastest way to stop tooth pain?

Taking ibuprofen at the recommended dose typically provides the fastest over-the-counter relief for toothache. Applying a cold compress to the outside of the cheek and rinsing gently with warm salt water may also help reduce discomfort. These are temporary measures, and a dental appointment should be arranged promptly.

Can a dentist prescribe stronger painkillers for toothache?

Yes. If over-the-counter painkillers do not provide sufficient relief, your dentist may prescribe stronger options such as co-codamol, dihydrocodeine, or prescription-strength anti-inflammatories. These are intended for short-term use only and are prescribed alongside dental treatment to address the underlying cause of pain.