Home Remedies for Toothaches: Updated for 2019
Toothaches can strike at any time.
It’s Murphy’s Law, isn’t it? The most excruciating toothache never actually strikes unless it’s the early hours of the morning or over a long weekend when there’s no way of getting to a dentist. That’s when you go online and search for home remedies.
The general rule of thumb is the quicker you act, the better your chance of preventing further damage. Tomasik Family Dental offers patients a dental emergency service in Bee Cave, Texas, that you can call for any dental emergencies, whether it’s intense tooth pain, a broken or loose tooth, or one that’s fallen out.
Effective Home Remedies for Toothaches
If there’s no way of getting to the dentist because you’re away, it’s a long weekend, or it’s the middle of the night, there are a few effective home remedies that will help relieve the toothache.
The following remedies will help relieve the pain, but remember to book your appointment as soon as you can, as these treatments aren’t a substitute for professional dental care.
1. Rinse your mouth with salt water.
If it’s more discomfort than extreme pain you’re experiencing, rinsing your mouth with salt water is one of the first things you can do. Because it’s a natural disinfectant, salt water will loosen any debris or bits of food that are stuck between your teeth.
It will also help with any gum inflammation, and even assist with the healing of any mouth sores, like ulcers.
Simply mix half a teaspoon of salt with some warm water and give it a stir. Use the mixture as a mouthwash.
2. Use ice as a cold compress.
A cold compress is especially useful if your toothache has been caused by some kind of trauma. Not only does it ease the pain, but it will also reduce any inflammation or swelling.
Some great store-bought cold packs are ready to use, or you can make your own with a towel and some ice. Wrap the ice inside the towel and apply it to the area for approximately 15 to 20 minutes at a time. It’s recommended you do this every few hours, until your dental appointment.
3. Grab a few peppermint tea bags.
Using peppermint tea bags on the affected area will soothe your gums and numb the pain. The tea bags can be used warm or chilled—while you’re at it, make yourself a cup.
To use, either pop a used tea bag in the freezer to chill for a few minutes, or alternatively, allow it to cool down after soaking in hot water. Apply the bag to the aching tooth for a couple of minutes. Repeat every few hours if necessary.
4. Vanilla extract can numb the pain.
Because vanilla extract has a small percentage of alcohol in it, it works to numb the pain. Also, as a natural antioxidant, it helps with swollen or inflamed gums as well as mouth sores.
You can put a small amount onto a cotton ball or your finger and apply it to the painful area. It’s a good idea to do this every few hours.
5. Use over-the-counter pain tablets.
Often toothache can be bad enough to cause a headache or sore jaw. If you experience this at home, an over-the-counter pain reliever could give you some relief. Just make sure you follow the directions and stick to the recommended dosage.
And don’t forget to get to the dentist as soon as possible.
For any home remedy treatments, it is essential you check with your health provider before using them, especially if you have any pre-existing conditions or are pregnant or breastfeeding, just to be on the safe side.
What Not to Do for a Toothache
So now you know which home remedies will ease tooth pain until you can get to the dentist, but there are also a few things you shouldn’t do.
If possible, try and avoid:
- Extremely hot or cold foods and drinks such as ice cream, hot tea and coffee, and soup.
- Don’t poke the affected area with a toothpick, your finger or tongue. This will only irritate the toothache and make it worse.
- Avoid chewing. If your toothache is severe, there’s a good chance you won’t feel like eating, but if you do, make sure it’s soft foods.
- Depending on the cause of the toothache, it’s best to avoid sweet things like chocolate, sodas, cakes, and candy.
A toothache is a sign that something’s wrong. Even if the pain eases, the problem won’t go away on its own.
If you’re experiencing toothache for more than a day or two, you need to get to your dentist as a matter of urgency, so that you can get to the root of the problem, so to speak.
You can call Tomasik Family Dental or book an appointment online. And don’t forget about the emergency service they offer.