Rinse your mouth with warm salt water
Floss gently to remove trapped food
Take over-the-counter pain relievers as directed on the label
Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek
Avoid very hot, cold, sweet, or hard foods
Keep your head elevated
Use a temporary dental filling material if a filling is lost
Apply clove oil sparingly to the sore area
Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush
See a dentist as soon as possible
Get urgent dental care if you have swelling, fever, trouble swallowing, or severe pain