Toothache pain can be excruciating. This pain can be sharp, dull and sometimes aching. It can even bring on flu-like symptoms. You usually feel this pain when the nerve inside your tooth is irritated. Your toothache can cause a strong reaction to hot and cold food and beverages.
There is only one solution to permanently get rid of a toothache and that’s a visit to the dentist. Now you may not be able to get to see the dentist right away and your toothache may flare up. Therefore we offer a comprehensive guide on how to alleviate tooth pain at home.
Here are 8 remedies for a toothache
These natural remedies won’t stop decay or heal an abscess but may provide temporary relief from the pain.
Peppermint Tea
Hold a warm teabag against your tooth to soothe the inflammation.
Rinse with Saltwater
Mix 1/2 teaspoon salt into 8 ounces of warm water, swish around your mouth for 30 seconds then spit it out. Saltwater removes debris in between your teeth and soothes inflammation.
Cold Compress
Hold a cold ice pack on your cheek to reduce the swelling in your mouth and jaw.
Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse
Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water, swish around your mouth for 30 seconds then spit it out. Hydrogen peroxide helps reduce bacteria, inflammation and pain.
Over-The-Counter (OTC) Painkillers
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Aleve), or acetaminophen (Tylenol) reduce pain and inflammation.
Garlic
Make a paste and apply it to the affected tooth. Garlic can relieve pain and kill bacteria.
Clove Oil
Add a few drops to a cotton pad and dab it on your tooth. Clove oil is a natural antiseptic that reduces pain and inflammation.
Vanilla Extract
Sprinkle a few drops on a cotton ball and place it on your tooth. The alcohol in vanilla numbs the pain.
Don’t prolong a visit to the dentist. Schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible, especially if you experience any of the following:
- The toothache lasts for two days or more
- The pain does not go away or decrease when you take painkillers
- You have a high temperature
- You have pain when you bite, your gums are red or you have a bad taste in your mouth
- Your jaw or cheek are swollen
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