How do I get rid of a toothache?

HOW TO EASE DISCOMFORT

If you cannot see your dentist immediately and the toothache is driving you insane, there are a few temporary measures to relieve some discomfort before your appointment. However, they are not a substitute for dental treatment, and you should advise your dentist of any remedy you have taken before the treatment.

NATURAL REMEDIES

SALTWATER RINSE

This is the simplest home remedy and an effective first-line treatment. Salt water is a natural disinfectant, and it can help remove food particles that may be stuck in between your teeth. Treating a toothache with salt water can also help reduce inflammation and heal any oral wounds. Lastly, salt also has somewhat an antibacterial element, so it can help reduce further infection.

To use this remedy, just add salt to clean, tepid water and swish it around your mouth focusing on the affected tooth.

CLOVE OIL

Cloves are flower buds that are essentially one of the spices used in cooking or baking. Cloves have been used throughout history to treat toothaches because clove oil can effectively numb pain and reduce inflammation. Clove oil contains eugenol, which is a natural antiseptic, which works by numbing the area you applied it on, and gradually minimizing the swelling and redness.

To use this remedy, dab a small amount of clove oil onto a cotton ball and apply it to the affected area. Clove oil can also be diluted with a few drops of olive oil or water. Another application is to add a drop of clove oil to a small glass of water and use it as a mouthwash.

HYDROGEN PEROXIDE RINSE

A hydrogen peroxide rinse may also help to relieve pain and inflammation. In addition to killing bacteria, hydrogen peroxide can reduce plaque and heal bleeding gums.

To use this remedy, ensure the hydrogen peroxide is properly diluted. Mix 3 parts of hydrogen peroxide with 3 parts of water and use it as a mouthwash. Don’t swallow it.

COLD COMPRESS

Cold compress may be used to relieve the pain caused by a trauma to the tooth. When you apply a cold compress, it causes the blood vessels in the area to constrict. This makes pain less severe. The cold can also reduce any swelling and inflammation.

To use this remedy, hold a towel-wrapped bag of ice to the affected area for 20 minutes at a time. You can repeat this every few hours.

PEPPERMINT TEA BAGS

Peppermint tea bags can be used to numb pain and soothe sensitive gums. You can either use warm or cool applications.

For this remedy, you need a used tea bag to apply to the affected area. You can use a warm used tea bag or a chilled used tea bag by keeping it in the freezer for a few minutes.

GARLIC PASTE

For thousands of years, garlic has been used for its medicinal properties. Garlic contains allicin which has antibacterial properties and is also a pain reliever.

To use this remedy, crush a garlic clove to create a paste with a tiny bit of salt and apply it to the affected area. You can also slowly chew a clove of fresh garlic.

VANILLA EXTRACT

Vanilla extract contains alcohol, which can help to numb pain. It has antioxidant properties which makes it an effective healer.

To use this remedy, dab a small amount of vanilla extract onto your finger or a cotton ball and apply it directly to the affected area a few times per day.

GUAVA LEAVES

Guava leaves have anti-inflammatory properties as well as antimicrobial properties that can aid in oral care.

To use this remedy, chew fresh guava leaves or add crushed guava leaves to boiling water as a mouthwash.

OVER-THE-COUNTER DRUGS

If the toothache is intense and keeps you up at night, over-the-counter painkillers can be effective for temporary relief. Painkillers should only be swallowed and not applied directly to the gums, as the acid can burn gum tissue. Two of the well-known over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are ibuprofen and paracetamol. Although both can be considered safe, it is important not exceed the maximum dose recommended by the manufacturer.

IBUPROFEN

Commonly sold under brand names as Neurofen and Advil, Ibuprofen acts as an anti-inflammatory drug, relieving the swelling on the affected area where the infected or damaged tooth is located. This action alleviates the pain instantly.

PARACETAMOL

Tylenol, the most popular brand name of acetaminophen, is also a common request for toothache pain relief. Panadol, the most popular brand name especially by people who are allergic to or cannot take Paracetamol. Paracetamol does not have anti-inflammatory properties, but it generally relieves the pain as an analgesic, so people still find this drug useful as a toothache reliever.