If you have ever had a toothache, you probably know that the unique pain is simply unforgettable. Obviously, you should promptly visit your dentist if you have any tooth pain, but if you have to wait to do so for whatever reason, you can use several coping strategies, one of the most popular being the 3-3-3 method.
What Is the 3-3-3 Method for Tooth Pain?
Tooth or gum pain is almost always due to swelling or inflammation. If you reduce the swelling, then you will reduce the pain. The best way to reduce the pain and inflammation in the short-term is with the 3-3-3 method: 3 ibuprofen (600mg total) 3 times a day for 3 days.
One thing you must not do is take the ibuprofen only to stop taking it once you start experiencing pain relief. The trick is to keep the ibuprofen levels up so that you can reduce the inflammation. If you stop taking it, then it will be a while before the ibuprofen kicks in again.
Always keep in mind that the 3-3-3 method only treats your symptoms and does nothing to address the root cause of the pain. You should ensure that you can take ibuprofen and it doesn’t interfere with any health condition or medication you’re currently taking. (Talk to your doctor if you aren’t sure).
Final Thoughts
Toothaches and tooth pain are undoubtedly some of the worst forms of pain. If you have tooth pain, don’t assume it will go away on its own. If you need to wait to go to the dentist for your tooth pain for whatever reason, you have options for at-home treatment.
The most important thing to do for your headache is control the swelling. That’s why it’s so important to use an anti-inflammatory drug, such as ibuprofen. You also need to try using the 3-3-3 method as described above and your tooth pain will dissipate or even disappear completely.