Toothaches can vary in intensity, ranging from a slight discomfort to a pounding ache, and they can happen unexpectedly. It’s important to see a dentist promptly if you have a toothache because cavities might not cause pain until they lead to an infection in the tooth’s nerve, which could indicate a more serious issue.
However, there are practical and scientifically supported methods to alleviate toothache pain temporarily while you wait for your dental appointment.
What Is a Toothache?
A toothache can manifest as sharp, dull, or throbbing pain that may be constant or come and go, according to Sharon Huang, D.D.S., who runs Les Belles NYC, a dental practice in New York. The cause could be an infected nerve within the tooth or a gum infection. It might also serve as a symptom of a heart attack.
Ignoring toothaches is risky because they’re signals from our bodies that something isn’t right, Huang emphasizes. Our nerves send countless messages to our brains about potential attacks, infections, or injuries, prompting us to feel pain.
Why are toothaches so agonizing? Huang explains that the nerves inside our teeth are incredibly sensitive, making any irritation or infection intensely painful.
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Home Remedies for Toothache Pain
Several home remedies can offer temporary relief from toothache pain, but it’s crucial to consult your dentist before trying them. Additionally, if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any medical conditions that might be affected by herbal ingredients, it’s best to discuss these remedies with your dentist beforehand.
1. Raw Garlic
Garlic has been known for ages as a powerful medicinal plant with numerous health benefits, including its antimicrobial and antibiotic properties. If your toothache stems from a bacterial infection, garlic can provide quick relief. Its antibiotic qualities help combat infections, giving you relief from discomfort.
What’s great about using garlic for a toothache is its simplicity. Just chew on a clove or two to experience significant pain relief. Alternatively, you can create a garlic paste by crushing a clove and mixing it with table salt. If fresh garlic isn’t available, garlic powder works just as well.
2. Salt Water Rinse
If you need quick, natural pain relief for a toothache and don’t have any special ingredients on hand, a simple saltwater rinse can be very effective. Salt acts as a natural disinfectant, swiftly killing bacteria that might be causing your toothache. Additionally, it helps loosen food particles and debris stuck between your teeth, making them easier to clean.
To make a saltwater rinse, add half a teaspoon of salt to a glass of warm water. Swish the mixture in your mouth, paying attention to the sore tooth, and then spit it out. Repeat this process until you finish the glass of water.
For enhanced effectiveness against toothache, you can make a salt and pepper paste. Mix equal parts salt and pepper, then add a little water to create a thick paste. Apply the paste to the affected tooth and let it sit for a while before rinsing your mouth thoroughly.
3. Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract might not be the first thing that comes to mind for a toothache, but it can help. It contains alcohol, which can numb the pain, and it’s a natural antioxidant, which can fight off disease.
To use vanilla extract for pain relief, make sure you’re using the natural product, not imitation. Then, simply dab a small amount onto a cotton ball and apply it to the sore tooth.
4. Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse
Hydrogen peroxide is another effective remedy for toothaches. Like salt, it’s a strong disinfectant that can help reduce plaque and has antibacterial properties to fight infections.
To make a hydrogen peroxide rinse, mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water. Swish it around in your mouth for about thirty seconds, then spit it out. Make sure not to swallow it, and rinse your mouth several times with plain water afterward to remove any remaining peroxide. Keep in mind that it’s not suitable for kids due to the risk of swallowing it.
5. Onions
Onions might make you cry, but they can also help with toothaches. Their antimicrobial and antiseptic properties make them effective against bacterial infections causing tooth pain. If your gums are sore, onions can offer relief too.
Using onions is simple. Just chew on a raw onion, and you should feel relief almost immediately. If the idea of munching on raw onions isn’t appealing, you can place a slice of onion directly on the affected tooth and let its juices seep into the gum.
6. Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera is like the superhero of plants when it comes to healing. It’s well-known for treating cuts, and burns, and guess what? It can also tackle toothaches. Plus, it has a calming effect on sore gums and is particularly effective for calming exposed nerves in a tooth.
Using it for toothache relief is easy. Just cut open a leaf, scoop out the gel, and apply it to the painful area. Then, sit back and let its soothing properties work their magic.
7. Peppermint
Peppermint isn’t just for freshening breath; it’s a fantastic natural remedy for toothaches too. It has a numbing effect on nerves, providing quick relief for inflamed gums. Plus, it contains menthol, which fights bacteria, making it one of the best toothache remedies out there.
One way to use peppermint is by brewing tea. Steep a teaspoon of dried peppermint leaves in a cup of boiling water for about twenty minutes. You can drink the tea or use it as a mouthwash for extra relief.
Another option is to place a warm peppermint tea bag directly on the sore tooth. For added effectiveness, you can even freeze the tea bag first. This will help numb blood vessels, reducing sensitivity even more.
8. Ice Press
If your toothache is caused by an injury to your mouth, like a chipped or loose tooth, using an ice press can be helpful. It’s also great for reducing any swelling on your face.
Making an ice press is simple. Just grab a bag of ice cubes and a towel. Wrap the towel around the bag of ice and hold it against the painful area. You should feel the pain easing off.
9. Thyme
Thyme isn’t just for adding flavor to your meals; it’s also packed with medicinal properties. Its active compound, thymol, has both antifungal and antiseptic qualities, making it a powerful tool against dental infections and a top-notch toothache remedy.
You can use thyme in two main ways for toothache relief. First, add a drop of thyme essential oil to a glass of water and use it as a mouthwash. Alternatively, soak a cotton ball in a few drops of the oil and apply it directly to the sore tooth.
10. Toothache Plant
As its name suggests, the toothache plant is an excellent natural remedy for toothaches. Native to tropical and subtropical regions, it contains an active compound called Spilanthol, which has potent anti-inflammatory properties, providing a numbing sensation.
To benefit from its healing powers, simply chew on the plant. However, it’s important to note that you shouldn’t use the plant if you’re pregnant, consume alcohol, use diuretics, or are allergic to plants in the daisy family.
11. Wheatgrass
Another natural remedy for toothaches is wheatgrass. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can significantly reduce tooth pain. You can either chew on raw wheatgrass or use a wheatgrass solution as a mouthwash.
12. Baking Soda
Baking soda isn’t just for baking; it’s also a handy remedy for toothaches. It has properties that can reduce pain and swelling while cleaning the infected area. Its alkaline nature can also help limit bacteria growth by neutralizing acids in the mouth.
To use it, mix 2 teaspoons of baking soda with lukewarm water. Swish the mixture around your mouth for about 30 seconds, then spit it out.
13. Cinnamon
Cinnamon isn’t just a tasty spice; it also packs antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Some studies suggest it can even help prevent cavities and reduce the risk of fungal infections.
You can try chewing or sucking on a cinnamon stick for relief. Alternatively, make a paste by mixing 1 teaspoon of cinnamon with 5 teaspoons of honey, then apply it to the sore area.
14. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil can be soothing for toothaches due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, a technique called oil pulling involves swishing around 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in the mouth for 10 to 20 minutes to reduce bacteria and improve oral health.
While results vary, some studies suggest benefits from rinsing with coconut oil twice a day for seven days. Simply swish 1 tablespoon of coconut oil around your mouth for about 30 seconds, then spit it out.
15. Oregano Oil
Oregano oil is a natural antiseptic that can help prevent tooth decay. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can also reduce pain. Research suggests that using an oral gel made with oregano can fight off bacteria and potentially prevent dental infections.
Since oregano oil is highly concentrated, just a small amount applied with a Q-tip to the affected area can be effective.
16. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial qualities, which can ease pain and promote healing for infections. It’s generally safe to use, although more research is needed to fully understand its benefits. Applying a few drops of tea tree oil to the painful tooth using a cotton swab can help alleviate discomfort.
17. Echinacea
Echinacea has been utilized in Native American traditional medicine for various purposes, including toothaches. Studies support its antibacterial properties, which can help manage gum disease and prevent cavities. You can try making echinacea tea and applying it directly to the toothache for relief.
Conclusion
Simple, everyday items can offer significant relief if you’re dealing with a toothache. From salt to ice cubes to onions, these common ingredients can help alleviate your pain.
What’s great about these home remedies is that they’re easy to use. Some just require diluting a drop of essential oil in water and using it as a mouthwash, while others simply involve placing them on the affected area.
However, if the pain persists for more than two days, it’s essential to visit a dentist. These remedies are meant for temporary relief and should not replace professional dental care. Use them to alleviate the immediate discomfort of a toothache, but seek proper medical attention for long-term solutions.
