For many people, gum pain is serious and debilitating. It can cause a lot of pain for those who are afraid of the dentist or who fear having to pay for a dental visit. A trip to the dentist can be intimidating in so many ways, even if you have Medicaid Dental access or use CHP dental programs. Are you looking for a way to treat your gum pain? Not sure if you want to see a dentist for your pain based on cost? These are some cost-effective options to consider first.
Apply Warmth or Ice
A compress, hot or cold, can be a great choice. The temperature change can provide a lot of relief, and you can easily make one at home with a clean cloth or an ice pack.
Rinse With Warm Salt Water
A salt water rinse can provide a lot of relief for gums that feel swollen and in pain. Salt can also deter the spread of bacteria throughout the mouth. Warm up water, but not to a boil. Add some salt, and swish in your mouth for a few moments. Spit out the water, don't swallow.
Rinse With Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide can provide additional pain relief and reduce some of the inflammation of the gums. Mix the hydrogen peroxide with an equal amount of water. Swish the mixture in your mouth and then spit and rinse with water.
Apply Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a natural anti-inflammatory that can ease your pain. Apply just a few drops of the oil into some water and then rinse your mouth out with it. You can rinse with water afterward.
Take Over-the-Counter Medications
Many over-the-counter pain relievers will relieve the pain of your gums quite quickly. Aspirin, ibuprofen, and acetaminophen are all common options that are effective. Follow the instructions on the bottle when you take these medications.
Oral Gels
You will also find some light anesthetics available in stores. These gels help you relieve your pain by providing numbness. You may need to apply the gel several times throughout the day, as it eventually does wear off.
Talk to Your Dentist
If you experience pain in your gums, you should see your dentist. The pain you experience may be covered by your Medicaid dental program, especially if you have to undergo treatment like infection control or a root canal. Do not be afraid to see the dentist even if you are worried about the cost of treatment.
