A toothache can happen for many different reasons. It can be from food particles getting stuck and irritating your gums, broken teeth, cavities, or repetitive chewing. To soothe your toothache you utilize many home remedies such as taking a painkiller, rinsing your mouth, or using clove oil.
Take a Painkiller
Painkillers are a great way to quickly soothe a toothache. Even over the counter painkillers will be more than enough to help with the pain. You need medications that target inflammation and pain, and some of the best over-the-counter medications for this are acetaminophen and ibuprofen. You can alternate between the two medications to ensure that you keep the pain at bay. There are also pain-killing gels you can use to apply directly to the affected area.
Rinse Your Mouth
Rinsing your mouth with salt water can be a helpful home remedy. Warm salt water can relieve some soreness and pressure. This remedy can help rinse away food particles in between your teeth left behind from your meals. Salt water is also a disinfectant. The temperature and salt can also help reduce inflammation which will decrease the pain you feel. To make a rinse you should start with eight ounces of warm water and mix in one teaspoon of salt. You should not swallow this mix but swish in your mouth for fifteen to thirty seconds.
Use Clove Oil
Clove oil is a natural remedy that can reduce the pain you feel from a toothache. This oil will help your toothache because it has eugenol which makes it a natural anesthetic. To use clove oil, you can use a cotton ball or swab and place it against the affected tooth. Do this for 20 minutes to relieve your pain. You can also use a whole clove and chew it. You can also dilute the oil with a carrier oil or water. You want to be careful with clove oil and not pour it over the affected area. Clove oil is not a cure, and you shouldn’t use it to mask the problem. Consult with your dentist to get a proper diagnosis.
Home remedies are not a cure for underlying problems causing your toothache. If your toothache persists, you should always consult with a dentist to assess the cause of your pain and to give you proper treatment. Untreated tooth problems can lead to further pain and damage to your teeth and gums.
Check out this article on why it’s important to take your kids to the dentist regularly!