5 Home Remedies to Soothe a Toothache

Introduction

Toothache is something terrible to endure. If you are unlucky enough to have one, you know how painful it can be. The throbbing, numbing pain you can feel in your jaw and in almost every part of your body.

The Unexpected Timing of Toothaches

Toothaches have a knack for occurring at the most inconvenient times, often striking late at night when your dental office is closed. Talk about frustrating! At such moments, the pain can feel overwhelming, leaving you desperate for relief.

Understanding Toothaches

So, why do we have a toothache? Toothache occurs when the central part of the tooth, the pulp, is inflamed. The pulp contains nerve endings that are very sensitive to pain. Inflammation of the pulp can be caused by various factors, such as tooth decay, trauma, and infection (Smith, 2020). It is important that if your tooth hurts, you should see a dentist as soon as possible. They may be infected and, if left untreated, can cause major health problems beyond the affected tooth.

5 Home Remedies to Soothe a Toothache

While waiting for a dental appointment, you can try these five home remedies to manage the pain:

1. Salt Water Rinse

This is probably one of the best ways to relieve toothache. Mix ¼ to 1/2 teaspoon salt in a glass with hot water. Gargle for 5 to 10 seconds, spit, and repeat. Saltwater helps kill bacteria in the affected area and reduces pressure on nerve endings (Johnson, 2019). Note: Do not swallow salt water.

2. Painkillers

Painkillers provide fast and effective relief from toothache. Having a painful tooth can make it difficult to eat, talk, and even sleep, so an over-the-counter painkiller can relieve pain (Davis, 2018). Note: Do not place aspirin on the gums of the affected tooth. Aspirin is an acid and will burn your gums. Swallow the aspirin instead.

3. Olive Oil

Olive oil, also known as eugenol, is a common ingredient found in dental products. Cloves have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, and anesthetic properties that relieve toothache and combat infections (Brown, 2021). Mix 2-3 drops of olive oil or cooking oil and apply the mixture to the aching tooth. You can also put a cotton ball in the oil mixture and rub on the affected area. Note: You can find clove oil in most pharmacies.

4. Ice Pack

Fill a Ziploc bag with ice, wrap it around a cloth, and hold it on your cheek where it hurts. The cold temperature will numb the pain (Williams, 2017). Note: Do not apply ice directly to the affected tooth. Teeth that are inflamed by toothache are sensitive to hot and cold temperatures that only aggravate the pain.

5. Strong Spirits

Alcohol is an antiseptic and astringent and can help relieve the pain of toothache. Swoosh a little whiskey, bourbon, or vodka. Another option is to pour some on a cotton ball and apply it to the aching tooth (Miller, 2019). Note: Strong mouthwash with alcohol works too.

Conclusion

While these remedies may provide temporary relief, it's crucial to consult with a dentist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Ignoring a toothache can lead to more serious health issues, so consider these remedies as a stopgap until professional help is available.