A toothache is a type of pain that you feel in or around your teeth and jaws. If you’re experiencing tooth pain, simple remedies like rinsing with salt water or using a cold compress can provide some relief for minor discomfort. However, if the pain is severe or persists for more than a couple of days, it’s crucial to seek help from a dentist. While home remedies can help alleviate symptoms temporarily, it’s essential to address the underlying issue with professional dental care. Dentists can diagnose and treat the root cause of your toothache, whether it’s due to tooth decay, gum disease, a tooth abscess, or another dental problem.
In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of identifying the cause of a toothache.
10 Home and Natural Remedies for Toothache
Having a toothache can be really painful, but there are natural remedies you can try at home to find relief. Here are 10 remedies that may help ease your toothache:
1. Saltwater rinse
Saltwater can be a helpful remedy for toothaches as it can reduce swelling and fight against bacteria that cause pain. You can create a saltwater rinse by mixing 1 teaspoon of salt with a cup of water. Gargle and spit out the mixture in your mouth. This rinse is an easy and effective method to relieve toothaches. Saltwater acts as a natural disinfectant and can aid in removing food particles trapped in your teeth. It can also reduce inflammation and support the healing process for oral wounds.
2. Vanilla extract
Vanilla extract has alcohol which can help to reduce pain. It also has antioxidants that help in healing. Remember to use real vanilla instead of imitation vanilla for this remedy. To use it, put a little vanilla extract on your finger or a cotton ball. Gently apply it to the sore area a few times a day.
3. Wheatgrass
Wheatgrass is a super healthy plant that can do wonders for your body. It can help reduce inflammation and make your immune system stronger. With lots of important nutrients like chlorophyll, wheatgrass can help your body fight off bad bacteria and keep you feeling great.
4. Thyme
Thyme is a powerful herb that not only makes food taste better but also has natural abilities to fight off bacteria and keep our teeth healthy. It can help ease toothaches and prevent cavities. To use thyme for tooth pain, you can mix thyme essential oil with another oil and apply it to the painful area for relief.
5. Hydrogen peroxide rinse
Hydrogen peroxide can be used as a mouth rinse to reduce pain and swelling in your mouth. It can kill bacteria, reduce plaque, and heal bleeding gums. Remember to mix equal parts of 3-percent hydrogen peroxide with water before using it as a mouthwash.
6. Cold compress
You can ease toothache pain by using a cold compress. This can be helpful if your toothache is due to an injury. When you apply a cold compress, it makes the blood vessels in the area get smaller. This makes the pain feel less strong. The cold can also help to decrease any swelling and redness. To do this, you can place a towel-wrapped ice pack on the sore area for about 20 minutes. You can do this every few hours to get relief from the pain.
7. Peppermint tea bags
Peppermint tea bags can help ease pain and soothe sensitive gums. After using the tea bag, make sure it’s not too hot, but still warm, before placing it on the sore spot. You can also chill the tea bag in the freezer for a bit and then apply it to your tooth for a cooling effect. Peppermint has lots of good qualities that you might want to learn more about.
8. Garlic
The power of garlic has been recognized for its healing properties for many years. It has natural antibacterial abilities that can help combat harmful bacteria, including the ones that cause dental issues like plaque. Garlic can also provide pain relief. If you’re experiencing a toothache, you can try using garlic to help ease the pain. Start by crushing a garlic clove to make a paste and apply it to the affected area. You can also mix in a bit of salt for extra benefits. Another option is to chew on a fresh clove of garlic slowly.
9. Clove
Clove has been a popular remedy for toothaches for a long time. The oil from clove can help to numb the pain and reduce swelling because it contains eugenol, a natural antiseptic. To use clove oil for toothache relief, mix it with another oil like sunflower or jojoba oil. The recommended ratio is about 15 drops of clove oil to one ounce of the other oil, as suggested by the National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy.
10. Toothache plant
The toothache plant is a flower that thrives in sunny regions. It contains spilanthol, a special compound that can help decrease swelling and create a numbing sensation in your mouth when you consume it. But, it is essential to be cautious as it may not be suitable for everyone. If you have allergies to daisies, drink alcohol regularly, take diuretics, have prostate cancer, or are pregnant, it’s best to steer clear of the toothache plant.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several natural remedies and self-care techniques that can help alleviate the pain of a toothache. From rinsing with warm salt water to applying clove oil, these remedies can provide temporary relief until you are able to see a dentist. However, it is important to remember that these remedies are not a substitute for professional dental care. If you are experiencing severe or prolonged tooth pain, it is essential to seek help from a dentist to properly diagnose and treat the underlying cause of your toothache. Remember, taking care of your oral health through regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices is the best way to prevent toothaches in the future.