4 Successful Home Remedies for Toothaches

If you have any kind of pain in your mouth, it’s smart to see your dentist as soon as possible in case the cause is a cavity, cracked tooth, or another issue.

But we know it’s not always possible to get to the dentist right away. So in the meantime, try one of these home remedies to ease the pain before your appointment.

1. Clove oil: Clove oil is known to have painkilling and antibacterial properties, making it useful for alleviating toothaches caused by bacteria, such as cavities. Just dab a very small amount to the painful area. Clove oil should not be used in the long term, and should only be used in very small amounts.
2. Peppermint tea: Peppermint tea has numbing and cooling properties than can relieve a toothache. First, make a cup of tea, and when the teabag cools down, apply it to the affected area. Swishing the tea around your mouth may also help.
3. Salt water: Swish around some warm salt water in your mouth for about 30 seconds, rinse and repeat as needed. The salt water can reduce swelling by drawing out fluids and cleaning the affected area.
4. Hydrogen peroxide rinse: Hydrogen peroxide can help kill pain-causing bacteria in the mouth. Mix 3% hydrogen peroxide with water and swish in your mouth for about 30 seconds. Rinse and repeat as needed, but DO NOT SWALLOW.

These remedies can only provide temporary relief. For any kind of tooth pain, make an appointment to see your dentist as soon as you can.

Sources:

• http://www.colgate.com/en/us/oc/oral-health/basics/selecting-dental-products/article/ada-03-clove-oil-may-alleviate-tooth-pain
• http://www.besthealthmag.ca/best-you/home-remedies/natural-home-remedies-toothache
• http://www.everydayhealth.com/columns/white-seeber-grogan-the-remedy-chicks/ways-fight-bad-breath-naturally/