Best Painkillers for Toothache
Toothache is one of the most distressing types of pain—sharp, throbbing, or radiating pain in or around a tooth can disrupt sleep, work, and peace of mind. Knowing the best painkillers for toothache helps you relieve pain safely while waiting for professional dental care.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn about:
- The best painkillers for toothache based on scientific evidence
- Recommended dosage for kids, adults, pregnant women, and elderly
- Precautions in systemic diseases like asthma, diabetes, liver/kidney issues
- Popular trade names in India and globally
- Whether to take them before or after meals
- Natural alternatives and FAQs
Let’s dive into it.
What Causes Toothache?
Tooth pain may arise from:
- Dental caries (tooth decay)
- Pulpitis (inflammation of tooth nerve)
- Periapical abscess (infection at tooth root)
- Gum infections or periodontitis
- Erupting wisdom teeth
- Trauma or cracked teeth
While painkillers offer temporary relief, it is critical to visit a dentist to treat the underlying cause.
Best Painkillers for Toothache
Let’s break down the most effective medications for dental pain relief.
Ibuprofen – Best Over-the-Counter Anti-inflammatory Painkiller
- Type: NSAID (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug)
- How it works: Blocks prostaglandins to reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation
- Best for: Moderate to severe toothache, infected teeth, wisdom tooth pain
Dosage:
- Adults: 400–600 mg every 6–8 hours (Max 2400 mg/day)
- Children (>6 months): 5–10 mg/kg every 6–8 hours (Max 40 mg/kg/day)
- Elderly: Use with caution; start with lower dose (200–400 mg)
- Pregnancy: Avoid in the third trimester; may be used in early pregnancy under supervision
Common Brands:
- India: Brufen, Ibugesic, Advil
- USA: Advil, Motrin
Precautions:
- Avoid in gastric ulcers, asthma, kidney disease, bleeding disorders
- Take after food to reduce risk of acidity
Scientific Evidence:
A Cochrane review (2017) found ibuprofen 400 mg more effective than paracetamol in reducing post-dental extraction pain.
Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) – Best for Mild to Moderate Toothache
- Type: Analgesic and antipyretic
- How it works: Inhibits pain signals in the brain
- Best for: Mild to moderate toothache, safe option for those who can’t take NSAIDs
Dosage:
- Adults: 500–1000 mg every 6 hours (Max 4000 mg/day)
- Children: 15 mg/kg every 4–6 hours (Max 60 mg/kg/day)
- Elderly: Safe if liver function is normal
- Pregnancy: Safe in all trimesters
Brands:
- India: Crocin, Calpol, P-250, Pacimol
- USA: Tylenol
Avoid if:
- Liver disease
- Alcohol use disorder
With or Without Food?
Can be taken with or without food. Food is preferred to reduce gastric upset.
Ibuprofen + Paracetamol Combination – Best for Severe Dental Pain
- Combines the anti-inflammatory effect of ibuprofen with the central pain relief of paracetamol
- Recommended for moderate to severe tooth pain, especially when single drugs aren’t enough
Examples:
- Combiflam (India), Advil Dual Action (USA)
Not recommended for:
- Children under 12
- Pregnant women
- Patients with peptic ulcers, kidney disease
Evidence:
According to the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy (2018), this combo outperformed either drug alone in postoperative dental pain.
Ketorolac – Strong Prescription Painkiller for Toothache
- Type: Potent NSAID
- Best for: Severe acute dental pain (e.g., post-extraction or abscess)
Dosage:
- 10 mg every 6 hours (Max 40 mg/day; use for <5 days)
Trade Names:
Toradol, Ketorol, Ketorol-DT
Avoid if:
- Pregnant
- Elderly with kidney/liver disease
- Peptic ulcers
Tramadol – Reserved for Severe Refractory Pain
- Type: Mild opioid
- Used when NSAIDs are not sufficient or contraindicated
Dosage:
- 50–100 mg every 6–8 hours (Adults only)
Brand Examples:
Ultracet, Doltram, Tramazac
May cause drowsiness, nausea, constipation. Avoid driving.
Painkillers for Toothache in Children
| Age | Recommended | Dosage |
| <6 months | Paracetamol only | 10–15 mg/kg |
| >6 months | Paracetamol / Ibuprofen | As per weight |
| <12 years | Avoid combinations like Combiflam | Use pediatric syrups |
Avoid aspirin in children due to risk of Reye’s syndrome.
Painkillers for Elderly with Dental Pain
- Prefer paracetamol due to safer profile
- Avoid long-term NSAIDs—risk of kidney injury and GI bleeding
- Monitor drug interactions (e.g., with warfarin, antihypertensives)
Painkillers for Toothache During Pregnancy
| Trimester | Safe Drug | Unsafe Drug |
| 1st & 2nd | Paracetamol | NSAIDs (with caution) |
| 3rd | Paracetamol | Ibuprofen, Diclofenac, Ketorolac |
Always consult a gynecologist before taking any medication during pregnancy.
Precautions with Painkillers for Toothache
| Condition | Avoid This | Use This |
| Asthma | Ibuprofen, Diclofenac | Paracetamol |
| Stomach ulcers | All NSAIDs | Paracetamol |
| Liver disease | Paracetamol (high dose) | Ibuprofen (with caution) |
| Kidney disease | NSAIDs | Paracetamol (short term) |
| Bleeding disorders | NSAIDs | Paracetamol |
Home Remedies vs Painkillers for Toothache
| Remedy | Effectiveness |
| Salt water rinse | Good for gum pain and infections |
| Clove oil | Temporary numbing; contains eugenol |
| Cold compress | Good for swelling |
| Garlic paste | Antibacterial but strong |
| OTC gels (benzocaine) | Mild numbing (not for children under 2) |
Home remedies like saltwater rinses or clove oil provide mild, temporary relief and are great for early symptoms or supportive care. However, they do not treat the root cause — only soothe the symptoms.
Painkillers, especially NSAIDs like ibuprofen, offer faster and stronger relief for moderate to severe dental pain. Yet, they too don’t cure the underlying dental issue — they just mask the pain.
Conclusion: Use either or both (combination) for short-term comfort, but always see a dentist for permanent treatment.
Myths About Painkillers and Toothache
- “I can take any painkiller without food” – No, NSAIDs can cause acidity if taken on an empty stomach.
- “Double the dose gives faster relief” – This increases the risk of side effects.
- “Painkillers cure tooth infections” – They don’t cure, they only relieve symptoms.
When to See a Dentist
Painkillers mask pain but don’t treat the cause. See a dentist if:
- Pain lasts more than 48 hours
- There’s swelling or pus discharge
- You have fever or difficulty opening your mouth
- Pain recurs frequently
Final Thoughts
To choose the best painkiller for toothache, consider your age, health conditions, and type of pain. While ibuprofen is most effective for inflammation-related pain, paracetamol is the safest choice across all age groups and special conditions.
However, all painkillers provide temporary relief—to truly address toothache, a visit to the dentist is essential.
10 Additional FAQs on Best Painkillers for Toothache
- Can I take ibuprofen and paracetamol together for a toothache?
Yes, but space the doses (e.g., paracetamol at 8 am, ibuprofen at 11 am). Do not exceed total daily limits. - Is naproxen good for dental pain?
Yes, it’s effective for longer-lasting relief. Dose: 250–500 mg twice a day. Avoid in gastric/renal issues. - What is the fastest painkiller for toothache?
Ibuprofen or Ketorolac (prescription). For OTC, ibuprofen works faster than paracetamol. - Which tooth painkiller doesn’t cause acidity?
Paracetamol is the safest for the stomach. - What painkiller is best for wisdom tooth pain?
Ibuprofen or ibuprofen-paracetamol combo. - Can I take painkillers on an empty stomach?
Avoid taking NSAIDs on an empty stomach. Take with or after food. - Is diclofenac good for dental pain?
Yes, but it’s harsher on the stomach and kidneys. Use only under guidance. - What if paracetamol doesn’t work?
Try ibuprofen or a combo. If still not effective, consult a dentist—there may be an infection. - Can I use dental numbing gel for a toothache?
You can, but effects are short-lived and not a substitute for proper meds. - Are antibiotics painkillers?
No. Antibiotics treat infections, not pain. Painkillers relieve symptoms.