Rinse your mouth with warm salt water
Floss gently to remove trapped food
Take over-the-counter pain relief 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 when lying down
Use a cold tea bag on the sore area
Apply clove oil sparingly to the painful tooth or gum
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 trouble breathing