When there is sudden tooth pain, the first place to look for a remedy is our kitchen. Although it’s best to consult your dentist for toothache, there are several home remedies for toothache that provide temporary relief.
This article will explore 10 effective natural home remedies to relieve toothache.
1. Salt Water Rinse
The most simple yet effective way to relieve toothache is a saltwater rinse. It acts as a natural disinfectant by decreasing the bacterial load in the mouth. It helps clean food particles stuck between teeth and gums. In post-surgical procedures, rinsing with salt water helps reduce inflammation and wound healing.
Procedure
- Mix around 1 teaspoon of salt in a glass of lukewarm water.
- You have to rinse your mouth with the solution for 30 seconds.
- Spit it out. Repeat this two to three times a day.
2. Cold Compress
You’ve probably seen in movies someone using an ice pack on their face to help with a sudden and severe toothache. This method can give you some temporary relief until you can see a dentist.
A cold compress can help reduce tooth pain and swelling. The cold temperature constricts the blood vessels. This numbs the pain and reduces inflammation.
Procedure
- You can wrap a few ice cubes in a towel or a cloth.
- Apply the compress to the outside of the affected area for 15-20 minutes.
- Repeat every few hours according to need.
3. Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse
Among home remedies for toothache, hydrogen peroxide is an excellent antibacterial agent. It can kill bacteria and heal bleeding gums, providing tooth pain relief. It is highly effective in patients with periodontal issues.
Procedure
- You should mix equal parts of 3% hydrogen peroxide and water.
- Take the solution in your mouth and swish for 30 seconds.
- Spit it out. Make sure you don’t swallow it.
4. Clove Oil
Clove oil has been an age-old method of toothache relief. It contains eugenol, a natural antiseptic that can numb pain. It also has anti-inflammatory properties.
Procedure
- You have to dilute a few drops of clove oil with a carrier oil, such as olive oil. Ideally, the ratio is 15 drops of clove oil to an ounce of carrier oil.
- You can take the mixture in a cotton ball and dab the affected area.
- You can also use it as a mouthwash by mixing one drop of clove oil into a glass of water.
5. Peppermint Tea Bags
Peppermint has antioxidant properties that can soothe sensitive gums. It also numbs pain and has menthol, which has a cooling effect.
Procedure
- You can soak a peppermint tea bag in hot water and let it cool
- Apply the tea bag to the affected area for about 20 minutes.
6. Garlic
Garlic cloves are well known for their antibacterial properties. When you crush a garlic clove, a natural compound called allicin is released. This compound has antibacterial properties and can provide tooth pain relief. It can kill the harmful bacteria causing dental plaque.
Procedure
- You can chew a garlic clove and get the benefit.
- You can crush the clove to create a paste and apply it to the affected region.
7. Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract contains alcohol and antioxidants. The alcohol can help numb the pain, and its antioxidant properties make it an effective toothache remedy.
Procedure
- You can dip a cotton ball in vanilla extract and apply it to the area.
- You can also apply the extract with your finger.
- After applying it to the affected area, keep it for a few minutes and repeat when needed.
8. Wheatgrass Juice
Wheatgrass is rich in anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties due to its chlorophyll content. It helps combat tooth decay and reduce inflammation.
Procedure
- Extract the juice from wheatgrass.
- Rinse your mouth with the juice for a few minutes.
- Spit it out, and do not swallow.
- Repeat as needed.
9. Essential Oils like Thyme and Tea-tree
Both thyme and tea tree oil are effective home remedies for toothaches. Thyme has antibacterial and antioxidant benefits, while tea tree oil, extracted from the leaves of the Melaleuca tree, helps prevent tooth decay with its antibacterial properties.
Procedure
- Dilute a few drops of thyme oil with water or a carrier oil and apply it to the painful area. Alternatively, mix it with water and use it as a mouthwash.
- For tea tree oil, apply two to three drops to the affected gum area.
10. Toothache Plant
As the name suggests, the toothache plant is used for relieving toothaches. This flowering plant, native to tropical regions like Brazil, contains spilanthol, an active compound with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. However, it’s still in early research stages, so be aware of potential contraindications.
Procedure
- Rub a leaf on the painful gum area.
- Alternatively, you can also chew the leaf.
Considerations for Home Remedies for Toothache Relief
While home remedies can provide temporary relief from toothache, it’s important to understand their limitations. Home remedies for toothache relief are best when combined with professional dental advice. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Complementary Care: Home remedies can be supportive, but ongoing pain may require professional evaluation to address underlying issues.
- Sensitivity: Some natural substances, like essential oils, may cause mild skin irritation or discomfort.
- Preventive Measures: If pain persists, consulting a dentist can prevent potential infections and ensure proper care.
- Timely Treatment: Relying on home remedies might delay seeking dental care. Balancing home remedies with professional dental advice can ensure optimal oral health.
- Health Awareness: Persistent symptoms might indicate more serious conditions, so it’s wise to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.
- Moderation: Use home remedies like hydrogen peroxide sparingly to avoid potential damage to teeth.
Conclusion
These home remedies for toothache can provide temporary relief and aren’t a substitute for treatment. You should consult a dentist if you have consistent or severe tooth pain. Our dentists at RiverRockDental can cater to all your dental treatment needs.
Contact us today to book a consultation. As your trusted dentist, we’re here to help you achieve a pain-free smile.
Our address: 403 1st Ave East Shakopee, MN 55379
Phone : (952) 445-5556
