Toothaches can be excruciatingly painful. While it's vital to see a dentist for a proper diagnosis and treatment, several home remedies can help reduce the pain and discomfort in the meantime. According to the Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA), tooth pain can be categorised into sharp and dull types. Sharp pain typically occurs when eating or drinking something hot, cold, sweet, or sour, or when biting or brushing your teeth. It may be caused by a cavity, cracked tooth, or exposed tooth root, all of which can leave the pulp (the nerve and blood supply) unprotected.
The pulp is usually shielded by layers of enamel, cementum, and dentin, but damage to these layers can cause sensitivity to temperature changes and pressure. Dull, throbbing pain, on the other hand, is a steady ache in the mouth or jaw that can last for days and may indicate an infection. A dull, throbbing ache or sharp, sudden pain; some home remedies can provide temporary relief while you wait for professional care.
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Home remedies for toothache:
Rinse with salt water: Gargling with warm salt water is a time-tested remedy that can help reduce inflammation and clean the affected area. Salt is naturally antimicrobial and can help flush out bacteria that may be causing infection. This rinse can also temporarily reduce swelling and pain. Salt water helps cleanse the mouth and reduce infection, providing temporary relief.
Cold compress: Applying a cold compress to the affected area can help numb the pain and reduce inflammation. Wrap a few ice cubes in a cloth and hold it against the outside of your cheek for 15-20 minutes. Cold therapy reduces blood flow to the area, which helps decrease swelling and numb pain.
Clove oil: Clove oil contains eugenol, a natural anesthetic that can numb the pain and provide relief. Apply a small amount of clove oil to a cotton ball and gently place it on the painful area. Eugenol in clove oil has been used for centuries as a natural pain reliever and antibacterial agent.
Garlic: Garlic has both antibacterial and analgesic properties. Crushing a fresh garlic clove and applying it directly to the sore tooth can help kill bacteria and reduce pain.
Garlic contains allicin, which has antimicrobial properties and may assist in combating infections.
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Peppermint tea: Peppermint has mild numbing properties, and drinking peppermint tea can help soothe the mouth and throat. Alternatively, placing a cooled peppermint tea bag directly on the painful area can also provide relief. Menthol, found in peppermint, has a cooling effect and can help ease discomfort.
Hydrogen peroxide rinse: A diluted hydrogen peroxide rinse can help disinfect the mouth, reduce plaque buildup, and alleviate swelling. Be sure to dilute the hydrogen peroxide with equal parts water before swishing it around the mouth. Hydrogen peroxide acts as an antiseptic and helps to clean the mouth, reducing the chance of further infection.
Vanilla extract: Vanilla extract contains alcohol, which acts as a natural numbing agent. Dab a small amount of vanilla extract on a cotton ball and place it on the affected area. The alcohol in vanilla extract helps numb pain while providing a soothing effect.
While these home remedies can offer temporary relief from toothache pain, it’s important to consult with a dentist for a thorough evaluation and proper treatment.
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.
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