Navigate To
Tooth pain is one of the most common and uncomfortable conditions people experience. Whether it’s a sharp, throbbing pain or a constant dull ache, it can disrupt your daily routine, making it difficult to concentrate, eat, or even speak comfortably. The cause of tooth pain varies, including cavities, gum disease, tooth sensitivity, or an infection. While professional dental care is always recommended for long-term solutions, there are several effective ways to alleviate tooth pain at home in the short term. This blog will discuss 13 methods—backed by research—that can help ease tooth pain.
1. Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
The first line of defense for tooth pain is often an over-the-counter pain reliever. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve), are commonly used to reduce pain and inflammation. According to research NSAIDs are effective in managing dental pain, particularly post-treatment discomfort or pain caused by inflammation of the gums or tooth pulp.
Ibuprofen works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, compounds that trigger pain and inflammation in the body. However, be sure to follow the dosage instructions and consult your doctor if you have any underlying medical conditions.
2. Cold Compress
Using a cold compress is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce tooth pain caused by swelling or trauma. According to research, cold therapy helps reduce blood flow to the affected area, numbing the pain and decreasing swelling.
To use a cold compress, wrap ice in a cloth or use a cold pack, and apply it to the outside of your cheek near the painful tooth. Aim for 15-20 minutes of application at a time, with breaks in between. The cold will help numb the area and provide temporary relief.
3. Saltwater Rinse
A saltwater rinse is a simple, natural remedy that helps cleanse the mouth, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. According to research saline solutions can aid in reducing oral bacteria and soothe irritated gums.
To create a saltwater rinse, dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in warm water. Swish the solution in your mouth for 30 seconds, focusing on the painful area, and then spit. This rinse can be done up to three times a day, especially after meals, to help keep the area clean and free from bacteria.
4. Clove Oil
Clove oil has long been used as a natural remedy for tooth pain due to its numbing and antiseptic properties. Eugenol, the active compound in cloves, has analgesic effects that can help alleviate tooth pain. Clove oil is often used to treat pain associated with cavities, gum infections, or tooth sensitivity.
To use clove oil, apply a small amount to a cotton ball and place it on the affected area. If the flavor is too intense, you can dilute the oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil. However, be careful not to use too much, as the oil is very potent.
5. Garlic
Garlic contains allicin, a compound known for its antibacterial, antifungal, and analgesic properties. Research suggests that garlic can help reduce bacterial growth and relieve pain, making it an effective remedy for toothache caused by infection or cavities.
To use garlic for tooth pain, crush a fresh garlic clove and apply the paste directly to the painful tooth. You can also mix it with salt to increase its effectiveness. Leave it on the affected area for a few minutes, then rinse with warm water.
6. Peppermint Tea Bags
Peppermint has long been used for its calming and numbing effects, and research supports its role in pain relief. According to research, peppermint oil contains menthol, which has analgesic properties that can numb pain and reduce inflammation.
To use peppermint as a remedy, brew a peppermint tea bag, allow it to cool, and place it on the affected area. Alternatively, you can apply a few drops of peppermint oil to a cotton ball and place it on the painful area for relief.
7. Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse
A hydrogen peroxide rinse can help clean the area around the painful tooth, reduce bacteria, and promote healing. Research published in Oral Health & Preventive Dentistry indicates that hydrogen peroxide can help disinfect the mouth and speed up the healing of gum infections.
To use a hydrogen peroxide rinse, dilute 3% hydrogen peroxide with equal parts water. Swish the solution in your mouth for about 30 seconds, ensuring it comes into contact with the painful area, then spit it out. Do not swallow the solution, and make sure to rinse your mouth with water afterward.
8. Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract contains a small amount of alcohol, which has numbing properties that can help reduce tooth pain temporarily. Research found that vanilla’s alcohol content and antioxidant properties can help with pain relief.
To use vanilla extract, dip a cotton ball in the extract and apply it directly to the painful tooth. The alcohol content will numb the area, while the antioxidants help protect against bacteria.
9. Temporary Filling Material
If your tooth pain is due to a cavity or a chipped tooth, a temporary filling material may offer some relief. These over-the-counter products, such as dental cement, can fill cavities and prevent further irritation until you can see a dentist. According to a study published in Operative Dentistry, these materials can effectively seal the cavity and prevent food particles from entering, reducing pain and sensitivity.
To use temporary filling material, clean the affected area and apply the product according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Remember, this is only a temporary fix, and you should visit your dentist for a more permanent solution.
10. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. A study highlighted the oil’s ability to fight oral bacteria, which can be beneficial in treating infections or inflammation that cause tooth pain.
To use tea tree oil, dilute a few drops with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, and apply it to the painful area. Alternatively, you can add a few drops to water and use it as a rinse.
11. Turmeric Paste
Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Research indicates that curcumin can help reduce pain and inflammation, making turmeric a potential remedy for toothaches.
To use turmeric, mix a small amount of turmeric powder with water or coconut oil to form a paste. Apply it to the painful tooth and let it sit for several minutes before rinsing it off with warm water. This remedy can also help reduce swelling and speed up the healing process.
12. Avoid Trigger Foods
Certain foods and drinks can exacerbate tooth pain, especially if you have tooth sensitivity or cavities. Foods that are hot, cold, sugary, or acidic can trigger pain by irritating exposed nerves in your teeth. According to research avoiding these triggers can help reduce the intensity of tooth pain.
To minimize discomfort, stick to softer, mild foods that are at room temperature, such as mashed potatoes, yogurt, or scrambled eggs. Avoid chewing directly on the painful side and steer clear of acidic drinks like citrus juices or soda.
13. Good Oral Hygiene Practices
One of the best ways to prevent tooth pain is through regular oral hygiene. According to the American Dental Association, brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily are crucial for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
Regular brushing helps remove plaque and food particles that can contribute to cavities and gum disease, while flossing removes debris from between your teeth that a toothbrush might miss. Maintaining proper oral hygiene can help prevent future tooth pain by addressing the underlying causes, such as tooth decay or gum inflammation.
When to Seek Professional Help
While the remedies mentioned above can help ease tooth pain temporarily, they are not substitutes for professional dental care. If your tooth pain persists, worsens, or is accompanied by symptoms like fever, swelling, or difficulty swallowing, it’s important to seek immediate attention from a dentist.
Professional treatments may include:
- Fillings, Crowns, or Root Canals: For tooth decay or damage.
- Tooth Extractions: In cases of severe infection or damage.
- Antibiotics: For bacterial infections.
- Gum Treatments: For gum disease or abscesses.
Tooth pain can be both debilitating and frustrating, but there are many remedies available to help ease the discomfort. From over-the-counter pain relievers to natural solutions like clove oil, garlic, and saltwater rinses, these 13 methods can provide temporary relief while you wait for professional dental care.
Remember that while these home remedies can ease the pain, they are not a long-term solution. It’s crucial to visit your dentist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment to address the underlying cause of your tooth pain. With proper care, you can alleviate discomfort and prevent future issues, keeping your smile healthy and pain-free.
- Different Types of Braces: Which is Right for You?
- The Link Between Diabetes and Gum Disease
- Comparison of Home Whitening Kits
- 5 Top Tooth Whitening Kits Compared
- Why do I grind my teeth at night?
- Why Is My Tongue White?