Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS· Last reviewed
Painkillers can control toothache, but they treat the pain, not the cause — you still need a dentist. Anti-inflammatories often work well for dental pain, and facial swelling needs urgent care.
NSAIDs (ibuprofen) often work well for dental pain (with food)
Paracetamol as an alternative or in combination
Salt-water rinses and a clove/benzocaine gel can soothe
See a dentist — painkillers do not fix the cause
Common over-the-counter options
Ibuprofen / other NSAIDs
Paracetamol
Numbing dental gel (benzocaine)
Only if a dentist/doctor advises
Antibiotics for a dental abscess/spreading infection (with dental treatment, not instead of it)
When to see a doctor urgently
Facial or jaw swelling, fever, or difficulty swallowing/breathing (spreading infection — urgent)
Severe, persistent pain
A knocked-out or broken tooth (see a dentist urgently)
Not a prescription. This lists medicines commonly used for this condition to help you understand your options — it is NOT a prescription. Do not self-medicate: the right choice and dose depend on the cause, your health and other medicines, and prescription drugs (especially antibiotics) need a doctor. Misusing antibiotics drives resistance.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best painkiller for toothache?
Anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen (with food) often work well for dental pain, alone or with paracetamol. A numbing gel can help temporarily — but see a dentist.
Do I need antibiotics for toothache?
Not usually — painkillers and dental treatment address most toothaches. Antibiotics are only for a spreading infection or abscess, alongside dental care.
When is toothache an emergency?
Facial or jaw swelling, fever, or difficulty swallowing or breathing means a spreading infection — seek urgent care.
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.