Emergency advice

How to help toothache:

  1. Advise the recommended dose of paracetamol and get them something cold to hold against the area.
  2. Advise the casualty to go to the dentist.

What is toothache?

A toothache can occur when pulp inside a tooth becomes inflamed due to decay. If left untreated, it can become infected and lead to an abscess. An abscess is a collection of pus.

Signs and symptoms

Look for:

  • swelling around the tooth or jaw
  • throbbing pain.

What to do

  1. If someone is suffering from toothache, advise them to take the recommended dose of paracetamol for their age.

  2. Apply an ice pack to the affected area.

  3. Avoid chewing with the affected tooth. Advise the casualty to eat soft foods, such as yoghurt.

  4. Advise the casualty to seek medical advice, particularly if you are concerned and the casualty is a child.

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