5 At-Home Remedies to Treat a Toothache

Is tooth pain in your smile making you frown? In most cases, a toothache is the result of a cavity, a cracked filling, or poor oral hygiene. However, sometimes an ache in your mouth can indicate a much larger, more serious oral health concern. That’s why every toothache should be seen by your Somerville dentist right away. If they determine your smile isn’t in immediate danger, you may have to wait a few days for treatment. Here are five home remedies that can ease your discomfort until it’s time for your dental appointment.

1.) Saltwater Rinse

Salt is a natural disinfectant. It can help soothe inflammation, treat oral infections, and clear away any harmful bacteria. What’s more, using it as a rinse can help dislodge food particles that are stuck between teeth or in cavities.

You can buy a saltwater rinse at your local grocery store or pharmacy, or you can make one at home by dissolving a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water.

2.) Diluted Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is an effective way to eliminate bacteria, and it may also help ease swelling, reduce plaque, and heal gum tissue. However, it is a dangerous substance that should be used carefully.

To make the rinse, dilute the hydrogen peroxide with at least one equal part of water. Swish the solution around in your mouth for 30 seconds, being sure not to swallow any of it. After spitting it out, wash your mouth out with plain water several times.

3.) Dental Floss

Sometimes, a toothache is simply the result of something being wedged between your teeth. Over time, the object may begin to irritate or damage the gum tissue while attracting bacteria as it decays.

Try flossing around your painful tooth very carefully. You should use enough pressure to remove any stuck debris, but not enough to exacerbate your toothache.

4.) Cotton Ball with Clove Oil

Cloves have been found to naturally contain antibacterial, antiseptic, and pain relieving properties. Its oil can be extremely potent, so it’s best to use clove oil with care.

You can try putting a few drops of clove oil onto a cotton ball and applying it directly to your painful tooth. Do not ingest, apply to the gums or tongue, or use in an excessive amount to avoid complications.

5.) Ginger-Cayenne Paste

Ginger and cayenne are both effective painkillers. They contain a chemical called capsaicin that has been found to help block pain signals from reaching the brain. However, applying these spices to your mouth may cause a burning sensation, so it may not be a good treatment for you if you have a low tolerance for spicy flavors.

You can mix equal parts of these ingredients with water to make a paste. Then, apply a small amount of the mixture directly on the afflicted tooth. Leave it there until the pain fades, or until you become uncomfortable from the heat.

Remember, any tooth pain in Somerville should be treated by your dentist, even if you can manage the discomfort at home. With their help, you’ll be back to enjoying your happy, healthy, and pain-free smile again in no time!

About the Author

If you or a loved one is experiencing a toothache, don’t hesitate to contact Somerset Dental Arts in Somerville, NJ. Dr. DawnMarie DiGrazia started her career in dentistry well over a decade ago and is an active member of both the Academy of General Dentistry and the New Jersey Dental Association. Regardless of what’s causing your toothache, she can help you regain optimal oral health quickly and comfortably, so feel free to reach her via her website or at (908) 722-2999.