Anyone who has experienced a sudden toothache knows how debilitating the pain can be. A severe toothache can be caused by a variety of conditions including gum disease, tooth decay or an infection called an abscess. All of these conditions worsen over time without treatment, potentially causing further complications. While home remedies will not address the underlying problem, many natural home remedies using items you have around the house will temporarily relieve pain.
Home remedies for dental pain are often a viable solution for temporary relief while out of town or on the weekend. If you develop a sudden toothache, call your dentist to schedule an appointment as soon as possible and try the following home remedies, using everyday household staples, to alleviate pain until then:
Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea has analgesic properties that can soothe pain in a variety of areas. To relieve a toothache using peppermint tea, simply wet and cool the tea bag and place directly on the affected area. The tea bag will alleviate pain when in place, but when removed the pain will return. This home remedy is generally considered safe.
Garlic
Because of its natural antibiotic properties, garlic can temporarily relieve pain caused by infection or decay. To use this remedy, simply chew up a clove or two of garlic when relief is needed. While the use of garlic to remedy a toothache is safe, many people are hesitant due to the strong flavor and resulting bad breath. Garlic is not effective on toothaches caused by sinus pressure or temporomandibular joint pain.
Salt Water
While salt water rinses will not provide long term benefit, they do rinse away bacteria and debris to provide temporary relief for a toothache. To use this remedy, mix a half teaspoon of salt into a small glass of warm water, swish and spit. Salt water rinses are safe, but relief is minimal and temporary.
Clove Oil
Clove oil has numbing properties, making it a viable solution for temporary pain relief. A couple drops of clove oil on a cotton ball applied directly to the tooth in question may provide temporary relief. Clove oil will not cause further damage to the tooth but can cause pain or injury to the mouth and gums.
Remember that going to the dentist is the best and only lasting remedy for a toothache.