1. Salt water rinse for tissue irritation

Salt water is a natural disinfectant, and it can help loosen food particles and debris that may be stuck in between your teeth. Treating a toothache with salt can also help reduce inflammation and heal any oral wounds. To use this approach, mix 1/2 teaspoon (tsp) of salt into a cup of warm water and use it as a mouthwash.

2. Hydrogen peroxide rinse

hydrogen peroxide rinse may also help to relieve pain and inflammation. In addition to killing bacteria, hydrogen peroxide can reduce plaque and help heal bleeding gums. Make sure you properly dilute the hydrogen peroxide. To do this, mix 3-percent hydrogen peroxide with equal parts water or non-alcohol Listerine and use it as a mouthwash. Don’t swallow it.

3. Cold compress

You can use a cold compress to relieve any pain you’re experiencing, especially if any type of trauma has caused your toothache. 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. Apply a towel-wrapped bag of ice to the affected area for 20 minutes at a time. You can repeat this every few hours.

4. Tea bags

Tea bags can be used to numb pain and soothe sensitive gums. You may use a cool or warm damp tea bad to the area. Fold or roll it up and hold it in place.

5. Garlic

For thousands of years, garlic has been recognized and used for its medicinal properties. It also has antibacterial properties. Not only can it kill harmful bacteria that cause dental plaque, but it can also act as a pain reliever. To use garlic on a toothache, crush a garlic clove to create a paste and apply it to the affected area. You may wish to add a tiny bit of salt. Alternatively, you can slowly chew a clove of fresh garlic.

6. Vanilla extract

Vanilla extract contains alcohol, which can help to numb pain. Its proven antioxidant which makes it an effective healer. Just be sure to use real vanilla rather than imitation vanilla. To use this remedy, dab a small amount of vanilla extract onto your finger or a cotton ball. Apply it directly to the affected area a few times per day.

7. Clove Oil

Clove has been used to treat toothaches throughout history. The oil can effectively numb pain and reduce inflammation. It contains eugenol, which is a natural antiseptic. To use this approach, dilute clove oil with a carrier oil, like olive or grapeseed oil. Use a ratio of about 15 drops of clove oil to one ounce of carrier oil, according to the National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy. Then, dab a small amount of the diluted oil onto a cotton ball and apply it to the affected area a few times a day. You can also add a drop of clove oil to a small glass of water and make a mouthwash.

8. Guava leaves

Guava leaves have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial prosperities that can help heal oral wounds.  To use this remedy, chew on fresh guava leaves or add crushed guava leaves to boiling water to make a mouthwash.

9. Wheatgrass

Wheatgrass has countless healing properties, like anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. It contains many nutrients including a high chlorophyll content, that help to fight bacteria. You can drink wheatgrass or use it as a mouthwash.

10. Thyme oil

Thyme is a powerful antibacterial and antioxidant that can help to treat toothaches. It can even help fight bacteria that contributes to tooth decay. To use this, dilute thyme essential oil with a carrier oil, and then apply it to the affected area.  You can also add a drop of the oil to a small glass of water and make a mouthwash.

See your dentist

If your toothache is severe or is the result of a more serious medical condition, it’s crucial that you see your dentist so you can treat it properly. Many toothaches will require medical attention. An over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen could help until you see a dentist. The natural options may help, but not cure the cause. If that is the case, then we are here to help.

You should also see your dentist if you experience any of the following symptoms:

  • fever
  • trouble breathing or swallowing
  • general pain that lasts more than one or two days
  • swelling
  • pain when you bite
  • abnormally red gums
  • foul-tasting discharge, or pus

The takeaway

A toothache can cause significant discomfort. While it’s important to see a dentist to figure out the root cause of your pain, there are some home remedies, like cold compresses and saltwater rinses, that may help you in the meantime.