Toothaches are a common and often very painful experience. The throbbing, sharp, or dull pain can disrupt your daily activities, making concentrating, eating, or even sleeping difficult. While seeking professional dental care is crucial for addressing the underlying cause of the toothache, several homemade toothache remedies can offer temporary relief and ease discomfort.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most effective and natural homemade toothache remedies that you can try at home.
Understanding Toothaches
Toothache refers to pain in or around a tooth, often caused by issues related to the teeth or gums. Common reasons for toothaches include:
- Tooth decay: Damage to the tooth structure leading to cavities.
- Dental abscesses: Infections that result in pus accumulation within or around the tooth.
- Impacted teeth: Teeth that do not have enough space to emerge or develop normally.
- Trigeminal neuralgia: A chronic pain condition affecting the trigeminal nerve, which can cause severe facial pain.
Duration of a Toothache
The duration of a toothache varies depending on its cause. If the pain persists for more than two days, it is crucial to consult a dentist to determine the underlying issue and receive appropriate treatment.
Symptoms of Toothache
A toothache can present various symptoms, including:
- Pain in and around the teeth
- Pain in and around the jaw
- Fever
- Bad breath
- A foul taste in the mouth
- Bleeding gums
- Inflammation
- Tooth sensitivity
- Swelling in the gums and cheeks
Causes of Toothache
Toothaches can result from several causes, such as:
- Tooth decay: The breakdown of tooth enamel due to bacterial activity.
- Broken fillings: Damaged dental restorations that leave the tooth vulnerable.
- Infections: Bacterial infections in the mouth, including abscesses.
- Oral conditions: Conditions like periodontitis, a severe gum infection that damages soft tissue and can destroy the bone supporting your teeth.
By understanding the symptoms, causes, and duration of toothaches, you can take appropriate steps to manage the pain and seek professional care when necessary. Remember, If your toothache lasts more than two days, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to address the root cause and receive proper treatment.
Homemade Toothache Remedies
Myrrh
Myrrh, a natural resin, has been used for centuries to relieve toothaches. Its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties can help reduce pain and inflammation in the gums. Simply apply a myrrh tincture or powder to the affected area for relief.
Peppermint
Peppermint has natural numbing properties that can provide temporary relief. Here are a few ways to use it:
- Peppermint Tea: Steep peppermint tea and use it as a warm mouthwash.
- Peppermint Tea Bag: Place a slightly warm, wet peppermint tea bag directly on the affected tooth.
- Diluted Peppermint Oil: Apply a few drops of diluted peppermint oil (mixed with a carrier oil like olive oil) to the affected area.
Clove Oil
Clove oil contains eugenol, a natural anesthetic. Apply a small amount of diluted clove oil (mixed with a carrier oil) to a cotton ball and place it on the affected tooth. Be cautious, as clove oil can be strong and irritate the gums.
Vanilla Extract
The alcohol in vanilla extract can provide mild pain relief. Apply a few drops of pure vanilla extract to a cotton ball and place it on the affected tooth.
Cold Compress/Ice Pack
Apply a cold compress or ice pack wrapped in a towel to the outside of your cheek where the pain is. The cold temperature helps numb the area and reduce inflammation. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes at a time.
Brandy or Whiskey
Soak a cotton ball in brandy or whiskey and apply it to your tooth for pain relief. The alcohol has a numbing effect and can help reduce inflammation. However, this remedy should be used with caution and is not a long-term solution.
Warm Saltwater Rinse
This classic remedy is simple yet effective in reducing inflammation and pain. Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a warm glass of water. Swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds, focusing on the affected area. Repeat as needed.
Fresh Garlic
Mix a crushed clove of garlic with a pinch of rock salt and apply it around your tooth.
Ginger and Cayenne Pepper
Mix powdered ginger and cayenne pepper with a few drops of water to create a paste. Apply the paste to the affected tooth, keeping it away from the gums to avoid irritation. This can provide immediate pain relief and act as an anti-inflammatory.
Homemade Toothache Remedies for Pain Relief
Coconut
-
Coconut Shell Gargle
Harness the power of coconut bark for effective toothache relief. Follow these steps:
- Prepare the Coconut Shell: Start by thoroughly washing the shell of a coconut to remove any dirt or debris.
- Boil with Salt: Place the clean coconut shell in a pot of water and add a generous amount of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it simmer to extract the beneficial properties of the coconut.
- Sieve and Cool: After boiling, strain the liquid to remove the solid pieces of coconut shell. Allow the liquid to cool to a comfortable temperature.
- Gargle: Use the cooled coconut shell liquid as a mouthwash. Swish it around your mouth, making sure it touches the affected area.
This natural remedy can help soothe your toothache and reduce inflammation. Repeat as necessary for temporary relief.
-
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an effective pain reliever. In traditional Ayurvedic practice, the technique known as oil pulling involves swishing around 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in the mouth for 10 to 20 minutes. This method is believed to reduce oral bacteria and improve overall oral health.
Thyme
Thyme, widely recognized for its medicinal benefits, can be an effective remedy for chest infections like bronchitis or whooping cough due to its primary component, thymol, which has antiseptic and antifungal properties. To use thyme for a toothache, you can add a drop of thyme essential oil to a glass of water to create a mouthwash. Alternatively, sprinkle a few drops of thyme essential oil and water onto a cotton ball, then press it against the painful tooth.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera gel, derived from the leaves of the succulent plant, is commonly used to treat burns and minor cuts. Recently, its natural antibacterial properties have made it a popular choice for oral care. Applying aloe vera gel directly to the gums can help clean and soothe them, providing relief from toothache and preventing tooth decay.
Honey
Honey, with its powerful antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, can help alleviate toothache pain and reduce swelling. Simply dab a small amount of honey onto the affected area as needed for relief.
Vicks Vapor Rub
Apply Vicks Vapor Rub to the painful area and cover it with a cloth or towel to trap the heat. The menthol in the rub helps numb the area, reducing pain and discomfort. This remedy is not a long-term solution, but it can offer quick relief.
Onions
Here are two ways to use onion for homemade toothache remedies:
- Cut off a piece of raw onion and press it against your sore tooth to ease pain and kill bacteria.
- Onion Paste; Blend raw onion into a paste and apply it to the affected tooth for its antibacterial properties.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has natural antibacterial properties that can help alleviate toothache pain. Dilute a few drops in water and use it as a mouthwash or apply directly to the affected area for relief from inflammation and discomfort.
Asafetida
Asafetida, a pungent spice, can help relieve toothache pain. Mix asafetida powder with lemon juice and apply it to the affected tooth with a cotton ball. Its anti-inflammatory properties can reduce pain and swelling, providing temporary relief.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Use a 3% hydrogen peroxide rinse to kill bacteria and reduce plaque, but rinse with plain water afterwards. This remedy can help alleviate pain and discomfort.
Chewing Gum
Chewing gum can help ease toothache by stimulating saliva production, which can neutralize acid and reduce pain. Opt for sugar-free gum and chew slowly to distract from the discomfort and provide temporary relief.
Salt and Pepper
Mix equal parts salt and ground black pepper with water to create a paste. Apply the paste to the affected tooth, avoiding the gum line.
Oregano Oil
Oregano oil acts as a natural antiseptic and is sometimes used to prevent tooth decay. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can help relieve pain. Studies have shown that oral gels made with oregano have significant antimicrobial effects, which can help prevent dental infections. To use, apply a small amount of oregano oil to a Q-tip and dab it onto the aching tooth.
Plantain Leaf
Plantain leaf has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe toothache pain. Crush a fresh plantain leaf and apply it to the affected area. The leaf’s natural compounds can reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort.
Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth
Use toothpaste specifically formulated for sensitive teeth to manage discomfort from certain foods or beverages.
Echinacea
Echinacea has a long history of use in Native American traditional medicine for various ailments, including toothaches. Modern studies have confirmed its antibacterial properties, which can help reduce gum disease severity and prevent cavities. To use echinacea for toothache relief, prepare echinacea tea and apply it to the affected area.
Honey and Cinnamon
Mix honey and cinnamon powder to create a paste and apply it directly to the tooth several times a day for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Potato for Toothache
Peel and slice a small piece of raw potato and place it directly on the affected tooth, or mix mashed potatoes with rock salt and apply the paste to the tooth.
Part 3: More Homemade Toothache Remedies and Important Information
Cucumber
You can use cucumber in two ways:
- Place a cucumber slice directly on the tooth.
- Make a paste with cucumber and rock salt and apply it to the tooth.
Bayberry Bark
Combine ground bayberry bark with white vinegar and apply the mixture directly to the affected area for pain relief and gum strengthening.
Turmeric Paste
Mix turmeric powder with water to create a paste and apply it to the affected tooth for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Baking Soda Toothache Remedy
Here are two ways to use baking soda:
- Wet a cotton ball, dip it in baking soda, and press it gently against the affected tooth.
- Mix baking soda with warm water and use it as a mouthwash.
Guava Leaves
Chew on a few guava leaves or use fresh spinach leaves as a substitute for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Acupressure with Ice Cube
Rub an ice cube in the space between your thumb and forefinger for a few minutes at a time to relieve toothache pain using acupressure.
Wheatgrass
Drink wheatgrass juice, use it as a mouthwash, or chew on a few pieces of fresh wheatgrass for its antibacterial properties that can help fight tooth decay and ease pain.
Neem or Margosa Bark
Boil neem bark with water, strain the liquid, and apply it to the sore tooth with a cotton ball for temporary relief.
Garlic Paste
Blend fresh garlic into a paste and apply it to the affected tooth for its antibacterial properties.
Conclusion
Toothaches can be incredibly disruptive and painful, but numerous homemade remedies can provide temporary relief until you can seek professional dental care. From the traditional practice of oil pulling with coconut oil to the soothing effects of aloe vera and the antimicrobial properties of echinacea, these natural treatments offer a variety of ways to manage discomfort. Always remember that while these remedies can help alleviate pain, they are not a substitute for professional dental treatment. Maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly are crucial steps in preventing toothaches and ensuring your overall oral health.
By exploring these remedies, you can find effective ways to manage toothache pain naturally. However, persistent or severe toothaches should always be evaluated by a dentist to address any underlying issues. Stay proactive in your oral care to keep toothaches at bay.
Homemade Toothache Remedies – FAQ
How do I get rid of toothache fast?
How can I stop nerve pain in my tooth?
What drink helps a toothache?
- Cold Water. Yes, something as simple as water can help soothe toothaches and burns! …
- Milk. Not only is milk good for your teeth by providing a large dose of calcium to help strengthen their structure, but it can also help with burns to the mouth. …
- Iced Green Tea.
Related Posts
Top 10 Health Benefits of Scent Leaf You Need To Know
18 Surprising Health Benefits of Honey and Its Nutritional Value
How to Relieve Muscle Pain And Soreness After a Workout
Cinnamon: Health Benefits and Side Effects