Severe and persistent toothaches are likely due to an untreated infection. Your best course of action is getting an emergency dental appointment. But sometimes life gets in the way. Maybe your pain is unbearable and you can’t drive, your spouse is unreachable or far away, or car service fees are astronomical. Here are some home remedies for a severe toothache.
Managing a Toothache
Before your toothache worsens, you can try regularly rinsing your mouth with salt water or applying a cold compress to alleviate minor irritation.
However, if your symptoms last longer than a day or two, or the pain worsens, you should see your dentist to relieve and prevent further discomfort
If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any medical conditions that may be impacted by herbal ingredients, be sure to consult your dentist before trying any of the following home remedies.
Home Remedies for Toothache Relief
When you’re experiencing a toothache, the number one thing on your mind is how you’re going to soothe the pain. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways you can alleviate your discomfort using what you have around the house:
Ice
Wrap it in a towel or hold ice water in your mouth and apply it around the affected area.
Over-the-Counter Medication
Alternate between acetaminophen and ibuprofen for better pain relief or apply gels such as Oraiel directly to the area to numb or ease your discomfort.
Salt Water Rinse
Rinse with warm salt water to dislodge food particles and reduce inflammation.
Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse
Use a mix of one part 3% hydrogen peroxide and two parts water as a mouthwash. Make sure NOT to swallow the solution.
Tea Bags
Apply a cold or warm tea bag (used is fine) to your tooth. Peppermint tea is especially helpful because it has bacteria-fighting properties.
Garlic
Apply crushed garlic paste to the painful area, chew on a clove of fresh garlic, or soak a cotton ball in garlic oil and apply it to your teeth.
Vanilla Extract
Put a little vanilla extract on a cotton swab or a clean finger and apply it to your tooth a few times a day.
Clove
Put clove oil on a cotton ball or swab and apply it near the affected area, place a drop directly on your tooth, or put a drop into a glass of water to act as a mouthwash.
Thyme
Thyme oil can be used the same way as clove oil for some relief.
Wheatgrass
Use a glass of wheatgrass juice as a rinse several times a day.
Elevate Your Head
Put a few pillows under your head or sleep upright in a chair.
About the Author
Dr. Kamlesh Makwana offers quality, personalized dental care dedicated to patient comfort. The Klassik Smiles team is experienced in guiding patients through urgent dental problems and are there for you every step of the way, from the moment you make a phone call until you’re back to showing off those pearly whites. If you have a toothache and want to get help as soon as possible, you can reach Dr. Makwana through his website or by phone at (636) 928-9693.
