6 Home Remedies for Toothaches

Have you been dealing with a toothache? You should see your emergency dentist right away in order to get to the root of the problem. However, you may be experiencing a lot of pain until you are able to get to the practice. The good news is that there are different steps you can take at home in order to relieve some of the discomfort that you are feeling. Continue reading to learn more about some home remedies that may be able to help.

Saltwater

A good first step if you are experiencing a toothache is to rinse your mouth out with saltwater. This helps to wash away food particles that are stuck between the teeth. Saltwater is also a natural disinfectant and helps to reduce inflammation in the mouth and heal oral wounds. In order to make a saltwater rinse, all you need to do is mix a half teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water.

Cold Compress

Using a cold compress helps to constrict the blood vessels in the area and numb some of the pain that you are experiencing. Cold temperatures also help to reduce both inflammation and swelling which is especially helpful if your toothache is the result of trauma. Just wrap a bag of ice in a towel and place it on the affected area for about 20 minutes at a time.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide can be used to kill bacteria, relieve pain, and reduce inflammation in the mouth. In order to create a rinse, you should mix 3% hydrogen peroxide with equal parts water. Absolutely do not swallow this mixture.

Clove Oil

Traditionally, cloves are used to numb nerves because of the primary compound of the spice, eugenol, which is a natural anesthetic. Place about two drops of oil onto a cotton ball and place it on the affected tooth. You could also chew on a whole clove in order to release the oil. Keep this in place for up to a half hour.

Peppermint Tea

In addition to this nice flavor, peppermint tea his numbing properties. Take a teaspoon of dried peppermint leaves and add them to a cup of boiling water. Steep for about 20 minutes. Once it has completely cooled, swish it around your mouth. If you have teabags, you can apply a used one to the area after it cools down.

Thyme

Thyme has powerful antibacterial and antioxidant properties that help to treat toothaches. Apply a few drops of thyme essential oil and a few drops of water to a cotton ball. Place it on the affected area.

You should see your dentist if you are experiencing a toothache, but if you are feeling a lot of discomfort, give some of these remedies a try until you are able to make it to the office. You may just find one that works for you!

About the Author

Dr. Ukti Phadnis earned her dental doctorate from the UConn School of Dental Medicine and is committed to continuing education in order to keep her knowledge and skills sharp. If you are dealing with a toothache, she would be happy to help you get some relief. For more information on toothaches or to schedule an appointment at her office in West Hartford, CT, visit her website or call (860) 236-4249.