16 Home Remedies to Relieve Toothache

Toothache is characterized by sharp or shooting pain that can be so severe that it disrupts eating, sleeping, and daily activities. Here are some effective home remedies for toothache:

1. Ice pack: Apply ice near the affected tooth to numb the area and provide relief.
2. Saltwater gargle: Rinse your mouth with lukewarm saltwater to disinfect and reduce swelling.
3. Hydrogen peroxide rinse: Swish a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water to kill bacteria and alleviate pain.
4. Cloves: Rub a few drops of clove oil on the affected area for its natural antiseptic properties.
5. Teabags: Hold a warm teabag against the tooth to relieve pain, as tannins have numbing properties.
6. Oils: Apply tea tree, thyme, or peppermint oil to reduce pain and numbness.
7. Asafetida: Mix asafetida with lemon juice or oil and apply to the affected tooth for pain relief.
8. Garlic: Chew raw garlic or apply crushed garlic to relieve pain and swelling.
9. Fresh ginger: Chew fresh ginger around the affected area to reduce pain and swelling.
10. Onions: Place a slice of onion between teeth to take advantage of its antimicrobial properties.
11. Vanilla extract: Apply vanilla extract to numb the area around the affected tooth temporarily.
12. Turmeric: Make a paste of turmeric powder and water or mix with honey to apply to the tooth.
13. Lemon: Suck on a wedge of lemon near the problem area to benefit from its Vitamin C content.
14. Propolis: Mix propolis powder with warm water and use it as a mouthwash to alleviate pain.
15. Guava leaf: Chew fresh guava leaves or use them as a mouthwash for their antimicrobial properties.
16. Wheatgrass: Use wheatgrass juice as a mouthwash to reduce swelling and infection.

In addition to these remedies, maintaining good dental hygiene by brushing, rinsing, flossing, and visiting a dentist regularly is essential. If home remedies do not provide relief or if the pain worsens, consult a dentist for proper treatment.

The Best Painkillers for Toothache

Mild to moderate toothaches can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, naproxen, and aspirin. Numbing mouthwash, toothpaste, gels, and liquids can also help reduce toothache. For severe tooth discomfort, a combination of OTC medications may be necessary. However, consulting a doctor before giving aspirin or benzocaine to children is advised.

Elevating Your Head

Keeping your head elevated can prevent worsening of toothache, especially at night when blood pools in the head and intensifies the pain. Ensure that your head is positioned higher than your body while sleeping.

Dental Treatment for Toothache

While over-the-counter pain relief may be sufficient for minor toothaches, seeking dental treatment is essential for moderate to severe tooth discomfort. The appropriate dental procedures depend on the cause of the toothache. Consult your dentist to determine which procedure is necessary for your condition.

Fillings

For tooth discomfort caused by cavities, the most common dental procedure is filling. Your dentist will remove decayed material, numb the area, and fill it with a dental filling.

Root Canal Treatment

If a badly infected or decaying tooth causes dental nerve pain, root canal treatment may be necessary. This procedure involves removing the inflamed pulp from inside the tooth and cleaning and closing the area.

When to See a Dentist for Toothache

If over-the-counter pain relievers do not alleviate toothache or if the pain persists, it is time to see a dentist. Stronger pain medications and antibiotics may be prescribed for tooth abscesses or infections. An untreated infection can be serious, so seeking immediate dental care is crucial. Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular checkups can help prevent infections.