Tooth pain can hit hard and fast, making it impossible to focus on anything else. Knowing how to stop toothache at home can be a lifesaver when a dentist isn’t immediately available. But which methods work? Let’s dive into some effective and quick remedies that can provide relief until you can see a dentist.
1. Saltwater Rinse
A saltwater rinse is one of the easiest and most reliable ways to calm a throbbing tooth. Salt has natural antibacterial properties, helping to reduce inflammation and cleanse the affected area.
How to do it:
Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water.
Swish it around your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out.
Repeat this several times a day.
This simple trick helps reduce swelling and clear out debris that may worsen the pain.
2. Cold Compress for Quick Numbing
The simplest solution to stop toothache at home is cold compression. If your toothache is due to an injury or swollen gums, a cold compress can help numb the pain and reduce swelling.
You need An ice pack or a bag of frozen veggies wrapped in a cloth.
How to use it:
Apply the cold compress to the outside of your cheek where the pain is located.
Hold it there for 15 to 20 minutes.
Take breaks in between to avoid frostbite.
Cold therapy is beneficial for pain linked to dental trauma or gum issues.
3. Clove Oil
Clove oil has been used for centuries as a natural pain reliever thanks to its active ingredient, eugenol, which has anti-inflammatory and anesthetic properties.
How to use it:
Dip a cotton ball in a small amount of clove oil.
Gently apply it to the aching tooth or gum area.
You can also mix clove oil with a few drops of carrier oil, like coconut oil, for a milder effect.
It provides a numbing sensation that can ease the discomfort quickly.
4. Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Over-the-counter pain medication can offer quick relief for severe toothaches. While it won’t fix the underlying issue, it can make the pain more manageable.
Options to consider: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen are common choices.
Important note: Always follow the recommended dosage instructions, and avoid placing aspirin directly on the tooth, as this can cause burns to the gum tissue.
These medications help control the inflammation and pain while you look for long-term solutions.
5. Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse
If your toothache is accompanied by bad breath or bleeding gums, a hydrogen peroxide rinse may help. This can fight off bacteria and ease the pain, significantly if gum disease contributes to the issue.
How to use it:
Mix equal parts of 3% hydrogen peroxide and water.
Swish the mixture around in your mouth for about 30 seconds.
Spit it out and rinse it with water afterward.
This rinse is a great temporary solution but should be used sparingly, as too much peroxide can irritate your gums.
6. Peppermint Tea Bags for Soothing Comfort
Peppermint tea bags have mild numbing properties that can relieve tooth pain. They are also known for their cooling effects.
How to use it:
Brew a peppermint tea bag, then let it cool.
Apply the cooled tea bag to the painful area in your mouth.
Alternatively, you can place the tea bag in the freezer for a few minutes and use it as a cold compress.
This method is gentle and works well for milder toothaches.
7. Garlic
Garlic might not be the first thing you think of for a toothache, but its antibacterial properties make it a handy home remedy. It can help kill harmful bacteria in your mouth and relieve pain.
How to use it:
Crush a garlic clove to create a paste.
Apply the paste to the aching tooth or mix it with salt before applying.
Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing your mouth with water.
Garlic may have a strong taste, but it’s worth it for the relief it can bring!
8. Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract contains alcohol, which can numb pain temporarily. Its antioxidant properties also promote healing.
How to use it:
Dab a small amount of vanilla extract on a cotton ball or your fingertip.
Gently apply it to the affected area.
This method offers a sweet-smelling, easy-to-find solution for minor toothaches.
9. Elevating Your Head
Changing your sleeping position, especially at night, can help stop toothaches at home. When you lie flat, more blood flows to your head, intensifying the throbbing sensation.
What to do:
Prop your head up with pillows when resting.
This reduces blood flow to the painful area and can help decrease pressure.
While this method won’t cure your toothache, it can provide temporary relief, especially during sleep.
When to See a Dentist
While these remedies to stop toothache at home can provide short-term relief, they won’t solve the root cause of your tooth pain. If the pain persists for more than a couple of days, seeing a dentist is crucial to prevent the problem from worsening.
Signs that it’s time to book an appointment include:
- Severe, unrelenting pain.
- Swelling around the tooth or jaw.
- Fever or chills.
- Difficulty chewing or opening your mouth.
Stopping a toothache at home can feel urgent when dealing with the pain. These remedies are designed to help you find quick relief but aren’t permanent solutions. Use these methods to calm the discomfort, and follow up with a dental professional for a long-term, reliable fix.
