Learn how to treat a toothache at home

A toothache is a pain that normally attacks the area around the teeth and jaws. Dental decay, an infection, loose or broken fillings, or receding gums may be the cause. If the pain lasts for more than 1 or 2 days, it is best to visit our Dental Office immediately to be treated.

Until then, the following simple remedies made with ingredients generally available at home can provide temporary relief from discomfort.

1. Cold compress or ice pack

A cold compress or an ice pack can help relieve dental pain, especially if a toothache is caused by an injury or inflammation of the gums.

A person may try to hold the ice pack or a bag of frozen peas, for example, against the outside of the cheek, on the sore tooth, for a few minutes at a time.

The application of a cold treatment contracts the blood vessels, reducing the speed of blood flow to the affected area. This helps numb the pain and reduce swelling and inflammation.

2. Saltwater mouthwash

Another well-known remedy is to rinse the mouth with warm salt water that helps loosen the residues lodged in the cavities or between the teeth. It can also decrease swelling, increase healing and decrease throat pain.

You can rinse with salt water by dissolving 1 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and swish in your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting. This process can be repeated as many times as necessary.

3. Garlic

Garlic has been widely used medicinally throughout history. It contains a compound called allicin, which takes into account its powerful antibacterial properties.

A clove of fresh garlic should first be crushed and then mixed with a little salt, and the mixture applied to the affected tooth.

4. Peppermint tea

Like clove, mint has anesthetic properties that can soothe toothache. Menthol, which gives mint its mint flavor and smell, is also known to be antibacterial.

A teaspoon of dried mint leaves can be put in a cup of boiling water and soaking for 20 minutes. After allowing it to cool, it can be shaken in the mouth and then spit or swallowed.

You can also use a slightly warm, moist tea bag that is held against the tooth for several minutes until the pain subsides.

Some drops of peppermint oil in a cotton ball can also be placed against the affected tooth as a temporary remedy.

5. Thyme

Thyme is known for its medicinal uses and is an effective remedy for chest infections, such as bronchitis or whooping cough. Thymol, the main component of the essential oil, has antiseptic and antifungal properties.

You can add a drop of thyme essential oil to a glass of water to make a mouthwash.

Another method is to sprinkle a few drops of thyme essential oil and water on a cotton ball. After adding the water, press against the sore tooth.

6. Aloe vera

Aloe vera gel, which can be found inside the leaves of the succulent plant, has been used for a long time to heal minor burns and cuts. Some people now use the gel to clean and soothe the gums.

Studies have shown that aloe vera has natural antibacterial qualities and can destroy the germs that cause tooth decay.

The gel should be applied to the painful area of the mouth and gently massaged.