Toothache on holiday: what to do before you find a dentist

First: is it an emergency?

Facial swelling that crosses the jawline, difficulty swallowing or opening the mouth, and fever mean infection is spreading. That is same-day care, anywhere in the world. Sharp pain to cold that fades in seconds is not an emergency, however unpleasant.

What helps in the meantime

Ibuprofen with paracetamol together outperforms either alone for dental pain. Cold compress on the outside of the cheek. Sleep propped up. Salt-water rinses after 24 hours if there is swelling.

The one thing not to do

Never put aspirin directly on the gum. It burns the tissue and does nothing for the nerve inside the tooth. Equally, do not use heat on a swollen face. It accelerates the spread of infection.

Getting seen in Istanbul

We keep same-day emergency slots for visitors. Bring any X-ray you have on your phone, note which painkillers you have already taken and when, and tell us about heart valves, joint replacements or blood thinners immediately.

The Ones People Actually Ask.