A toothache can strike unexpectedly and can significantly disrupt your day. Regardless of severity, a toothache should never be ignored and overlooked as it may indicate deeper dental issues. Recognizing and understanding the root cause can help you find immediate ways to relieve the pain and swelling, and understand the necessity of seeking professional help, but there are some home remedies you can try for temporary relief:
1. Cold Compress
If your toothache is accompanied by swelling, applying a cold compress or an ice pack to the area of your cheek for 20 minutes can provide relief. Johns Hopkins Medicine explains that cold temperatures help numb the area, reducing pain and inflammation. Cold compresses can offer temporary relief and help you sleep better.
2. Clove Oil
Clove oil is a commonly used home remedy to reduce pain and swelling associated with a toothache temporarily. It is due to the pain-relieving properties of eugenol, a natural anaesthetic, which provides relief from toothache pain. However, it is important to note that clove oil only helps with the pain of your toothache and does not address the underlying problem.
It is worth mentioning that clove oil has a strong and distinct taste, which some people may find unpleasant. To use this homemade toothache remedy, dip a cotton ball in clove oil and soak up a few drops. Gently rub the cotton ball over the sore area of your tooth and gums.
3. Salt Water Rinses
When experiencing a toothache and swollen gums, rinsing your mouth with warm salt water may offer some relief. Salt water acts as a natural disinfectant, helping to loosen food particles and debris that may be trapped between your teeth.
To prepare, add a couple of teaspoons of salt to a cup of warm water. To use, gargle the mixture. The warmth and soothing effect of the water help ease the pain, and the salt reduces the swelling in the gum tissue. However, it's important to note that these effects are temporary and do not address the underlying cause of the toothache.
4. Tooth Pain Medications
For immediate toothache relief, one effective approach is by taking over-the-counter medicines like acetaminophen, Tylenol, or ibuprofen. It is crucial to follow the instructions on the package.
Do not give medications containing aspirin or benzocaine to children and teenagers without seeking advice from a medical professional. However, it is crucial to understand that these medications provide temporary relief and are not a long-term solution. If you rely solely on pain medication without seeking professional dental consultation, your toothache may worsen.
5. Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse
A mouth rinse with hydrogen peroxide is an effective antibacterial mouthwash, especially if the toothache is caused by an infection. However, it is important to exercise caution when using hydrogen peroxide for mouth rinse, as it can have dangerous side effects if swallowed.
To prepare, mix equal parts of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide and water. Gargle the mixture for 30 seconds, then rinse your mouth with plain water. It is not recommended for children.
6. Peppermint Tea Bags
Peppermint tea bags can help numb pain and provide relief for sensitive gums. To use, allow a used tea bag to cool slightly before applying it to the affected area. The tea bag should be warm, not hot, to avoid discomfort or burns.
Alternatively, if you prefer a cooling sensation, you can put a used tea bag in the freezer for a few minutes to chill. Then, apply the chilled tea bag to the affected area. Peppermint tea bags provide temporary pain relief by numbing the area and offering a soothing effect.
7. Garlic
Throughout history, garlic has been used widely due to its medicinal properties. Its antibacterial property, allicin, helps kill harmful bacteria that cause dental plaque and acts as a pain reliever.
To use, crush a clove of garlic to form a paste and apply it to the affected area. You can add a small amount of salt. Alternatively, you can also consider slowly chewing a fresh garlic clove.
8. Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract, which contains alcohol, can be used as a remedy to help numb toothache pain. Its antioxidant properties have been shown to help in the healing process. For the best results, it is important to use real vanilla extract. To use, dab a small amount of vanilla extract on a cotton ball and gently apply to the affected area of the tooth a few times per day. Some people may have sensitivities or allergies to vanilla extract. Test on a small area before using.
9. Guava Leaves
Guava leaves are known for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help in wound healing. To use them, chew on fresh guava leaves. This allows their beneficial properties to come in contact with the tooth. Alternatively, you can crush guava leaves in boiling water to create a mouthwash. Allow the mixture to cool, and use it as a mouth rinse for toothache relief.
10. Toothache Plant
The toothache plant is commonly used for toothaches due to its pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties given by spilanthol, the main active ingredient of the plant. It is also used to alleviate gastrointestinal problems. Chewing the toothache plant gives a numbing sensation. It is safe to use as a home remedy for severe toothache, but it is harmful to people allergic to the daisies, those who drink alcohol, use diuretics, have prostate cancer, or are pregnant.
11. Wheatgrass
Wheatgrass has anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. It is rich in nutrients, like chlorophyll that actively fights bacteria. Wheatgrass works well for tooth pain relief as a drink or used as a mouthwash.
12. Thyme
Thyme has powerful antibacterial and antioxidant properties that help to treat toothache. Thymol, the active ingredient in thyme, has antifungal and antiseptic properties. It can help to fight bacteria that contribute to tooth decay. To apply, mix thyme essential oil with a carrier oil and gently apply it to the aching tooth. Alternatively, you can also add a single drop of the oil into a small glass of water to create a mouthwash.
13. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera gel has been used for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. Applying a bit of aloe vera gel to the affected area may provide a cooling and calming sensation. This can reduce swelling. However, it's crucial to note that while aloe vera may offer temporary pain relief, it is not a substitute for professional dental care.
Common Causes of Toothache
Various factors cause tooth pain but the common causes of toothache include:
Dental caries and cavities: Tooth pain often occurs due to the gradual erosion of tooth enamel caused by the presence of bacteria, leading to the formation of caries and cavities.
Dental abscess: An abscess is a pus-filled infection that can develop at the root of a tooth, causing severe and throbbing toothache. Treatment options for an abscess may include tooth extraction or a root canal procedure.
Teeth grinding (bruxism): Excessive wear and tear on the enamel caused by teeth grinding can result in tooth pain. This condition often occurs during sleep or due to stress and can lead to tooth sensitivity and other dental problems.
Periodontal disease: The accumulation of plaque on the teeth can lead to gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease, which can progress to periodontal disease if left untreated. Periodontal disease can cause tooth pain, gum inflammation, and tooth loss.
Tooth sensitivity: Tooth sensitivity is characterized by a sharp pain when the tooth is exposed to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic substances. It occurs when the protective enamel on the teeth wears down, exposing the underlying nerves.
When to See a Dental Professional
Persistent toothaches demand professional dental evaluation to diagnose and treat underlying causes effectively. The American Dental Association recommends prompt consultation with a dental professional, ensuring that your approach to dental care is both comprehensive and informed.
How to Prevent a Toothache?
While various dental conditions can lead to toothaches, cavities are a common cause. Fortunately, a rigorous oral hygiene practice can help:
Brush your teeth twice a day
Floss daily
Visit your dental professional regularly for checkups
While there are homemade remedies for tooth nerve pain and natural remedies for toothache that can provide temporary relief until your dental appointment, it's important to note that they do not address the underlying issue. It is crucial to seek professional dental care to address and diagnose the problem accurately and provide effective solutions to offer you tooth pain relief and resolve the underlying issue.
