10 Home Remedies For Toothache Relief

A toothache is a painful annoyance, especially at night. Getting a toothache at night can make falling asleep or staying asleep very difficult.

However, there are a number of remedies that may help people find relief and get to sleep, including taking pain relievers or applying a cold compress or even cloves to the tooth.

It is vital to tend to a toothache timely to prevent aggravation of pain, which often extends to the jaw bone.

# Apply a salt and pepper paste

A salt and pepper home remedy may help diminish the intensity of tooth pain.

- Mix one part salt with one part pepper, and add a few drops of water to form a paste.
- Apply the paste all over the painful tooth, and let it sit for a few minutes so that it gets adequately absorbed.
- Rinse your mouth with water.
- Repeat this application for a few days until you register noticeable relief.

# Rinse with salt water

A warm salt water rinse may help reduce the intensity of tooth pain when used frequently and regularly.

The gentle heat helps alleviate inflammation, pain, and overall discomfort. The salt helps destroy the oral bacteria that are often responsible for dental decay.

A study suggested that gargling with a saline solution two times a day may be a convenient adjunctive therapy for preventing dry socket after getting a routine dental extraction.

How to use: Dissolve ½ spoon of common salt in a glass of warm water and use this saline solution as a mouthwash.

# Try oil pulling

Oil pulling essentially means to use oil as a mouthwash to maintain and improve dental health. (3)(4) The oil cleanses the mouth of all toxic substances as the fats in it become soapy after hydrolyzation.

Research has also shown that oil swishing lowers the number of bacteria in the mouth. It decreases plaque and inflammation of the gums as well.

Olive oil contains phenolic compounds and anti-inflammatory agents that can help with the pain and thus can be used for oil pulling.

# Use guava leaves

Fresh guava leaves may help alleviate a toothache due to their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and analgesic properties.

- Chew fresh guava leaves.
- Boil crushed leaves with water and use the solution as a mouthwash.

# Try a cold compress

You can employ a bit of gentle cold therapy to alleviate toothache.

The cold travels through the hard shell of the tooth and desensitizes the nerve endings in the pulp and the surrounding gingival tissue.

How to use: Put a few ice cubes in a plastic bag and wrap it in a thin towel. Apply this compress to the outside of the cheek, in the area where the toothache is felt most intensely, for 15 minutes.

# Use turmeric

Curcumin, the active compound of turmeric, possesses anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and antibiotic properties that can help relieve toothache and sensitivity. Turmeric can also help prevent plaque buildup.

How to use: Mix turmeric powder with clove oil, mustard oil, or water to form a paste, and apply it to the affected area.

# Consider clove oil

Clove oil is one of the most common home remedies for a toothache. This oil contains pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties.

- Apply the oil directly to the affected area.
- Alternatively, dip a small piece of cotton in the oil and dab it on the sore tooth.

# Drink apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) possesses analgesic properties that can help relieve a toothache. Make sure to dilute the vinegar before use.

# Apply a tea bag

Tea bag application is a popular anecdotal remedy that can help subside the swelling and relieve the pain associated with a toothache.

Black tea is a popular choice but green tea can also be used, which will impart antimicrobial properties as well.

- Brew a cup of tea and place the warm tea bag on the affected tooth.
- Sip warm teas as they give a soothing effect.

# Use peppermint essential oil

Methanol, the active ingredient in peppermint oil, helps relieve pain by inhibiting the pain signals.

How to use: Dilute the oil by adding a few drops in a glass of water and use the mixture as a mouthwash.