Rinse your mouth with warm salt water
Floss gently to remove trapped food
Take an over-the-counter pain reliever as directed on the label
Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek for 15 to 20 minutes
Keep your head elevated while lying down
Avoid very hot, cold, sweet, or hard foods
Use a cold water rinse if warm water increases pain
Place a small amount of clove oil on a cotton ball and dab it on the sore area
Use an over-the-counter oral numbing gel as directed
Chew on the opposite side of your mouth
Avoid alcohol and tobacco
Call a dentist as soon as possible
Seek urgent care if you have facial swelling, fever, trouble swallowing, or trouble breathing