A toothache is mild to moderate pain in or around your mouth. Several conditions can affect your teeth or gums.
Common Causes of Toothaches:
- mouth or jaw injury
- a sinus infection
- tooth decay
- losing a filling
- an infected tooth or a dental abscess
- food or debris stuck in between your teeth
Until you can determine whether your symptoms are caused by a dental problem or something else entirely, you might experience some discomfort while chewing food, drinking liquids, or even brushing your teeth.
Toothaches can be quite uncomfortable, and while it’s important to consult a dentist for persistent pain, several home remedies can provide temporary relief.
Effective Home Remedy Options For Toothaches
Salt Water Rinse
Salt is a natural disinfectant. Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help reduce inflammation and dislodge any food particles stuck between teeth. Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and rinse your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out. Repeat as needed.
Cold Compress
Applying a cold compress can reduce swelling and numb the pain by constricting blood vessels in the area. Wrap ice in a cloth or use a cold pack, and apply it to the outside of your cheek for 20 minutes at a time, taking breaks in between
Peppermint tea bags
These are known to numb pain by cooling the tea bag a little before applying it to the area. Alternatively, you can also use a cooling approach by leaving the soaked tea bag in the freezer for a few minutes and applying it to the area once cold.
Clove Oil
Clove oil contains eugenol, a natural anaesthetic and anti-inflammatory compound. Dip a cotton ball in clove oil and apply it directly to the painful area. Alternatively, mix a few drops with a carrier oil and apply.
Garlic
Garlic has antibacterial properties that can help combat infection. Crush a garlic clove and mix it with salt, then apply the paste to the affected tooth. Alternatively, chew on a clove of garlic for relief.
Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse
Hydrogen peroxide can help kill bacteria and reduce plaque. Mix equal parts of 3% hydrogen peroxide with water, swish it in your mouth for 30 seconds, and then spit it out. Do not swallow.
When To Contact Your Dentist
If you notice any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, tenderness, or pus, emergency dentistry is available for you at Rockingham Dental Centre. Our dentists can help diagnose the cause of your toothache and recommend treatment options.
