Introduction
Have you ever experienced a toothache? If so, you know that it could be one of the most excruciating pains you could feel, especially if left untreated. Toothache is caused by various factors, such as gum disease or tooth decay. Regardless of the reason, the pain can be unbearable, which is why finding relief is crucial. This article aims to help you alleviate your toothache pain with home remedies, dental care tips, and more.
6 Home Remedies to Ease the Pain of a Toothache
If you’re dealing with toothache pain and cannot make it to the dentist immediately, there are natural remedies that could help soothe the pain. These remedies include clove oil, saltwater rinse, garlic, tea bags, peppermint, and cold compresses. Applying some of these remedies can provide relief, depending on the cause of the toothache.
Clove Oil
Clove oil is often used to help relieve dental pain since it is known to have anesthetic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate toothache pain. To use, dilute the clove oil with a carrier oil, and apply a small amount with a cotton ball to the affected area. Be careful not to swallow any of the oil.
Saltwater Rinse
A saltwater rinse can help rinse out debris from teeth or gums, and alleviate pain by reducing inflammation. Add half a teaspoon of salt to a cup of warm water and rinse your mouth. Spit and repeat several times. Rinse every few hours or as needed.
Garlic
Garlic has antibiotic properties that could help combat dental infections, reduce pain, and prevent tooth decay. Mince a garlic clove and mix it with salt. Apply the mixture directly to the painful tooth or gum area.
Tea Bags
Tea bags can help soothe inflamed gums. Put a used tea bag in the freezer for a few minutes, then apply it onto the affected area. The cold temperature can also help numb the pain.
Peppermint
Peppermint contains menthol, a natural numbing agent that could help alleviate toothache pain. Apply a few drops of peppermint oil diluted with water to the affected area or mix it with tea bags to make a pain-relieving compress.
Cold Compresses
A cold compress could help reduce inflammation and numb the pain. Simply wrap an ice pack with a towel and place it on the outside of your cheek closest to the painful area.
What Dentists Recommend: Tips to Help You Cope with a Toothache
Although home remedies can provide temporary relief, getting professional care is highly recommended. If possible, book an appointment with a dentist immediately to determine the cause of your toothache and get proper treatment. While you’re waiting for your appointment, here are some tips to help ease the pain.
Over-The-Counter Pain Medications
Over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can provide temporary pain relief. Do not exceed the recommended dosage.
Numbing Gels
Numbing gels can offer desensitizing action on the affected area. Apply it directly to the painful spot to reduce irritation or pain.
Avoid Trigger Foods and Drinks
Avoid eating food and drinks that are too hot, too cold, too sweet, or too hard, as they can make the pain worse. Also, try to avoid drinking soda, sugary drinks, or acidic drinks that could worsen your dental health. Instead, drink plenty of water to rinse your mouth.
When to Seek Professional Treatment
If your toothache persists after trying the home remedies and you cannot book an appointment with your dentist immediately, or if you experience symptoms such as fever, swelling, bleeding gums, or difficulty swallowing, seek emergency treatment. Don’t wait for the problem to escalate before getting help.
The Dos and Don’ts of a Toothache: What You Need to Know
While waiting for professional treatment, it’s essential to practice proper dental hygiene and remember what to do and what not to do when you have a toothache. Here are some tips.
Do Rinse with Warm Water
Rinse your mouth with warm water and spit it out when you have a toothache. This practice removes any stuck debris behind the tooth, which could be triggering the pain.
Don’t Use Alcohol or Tobacco
Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes or smoking tobacco if you have a toothache. These substances can worsen the pain and aggravate the infected area.
Do Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid further irritating the infected area. Brush twice a day and floss to remove any food debris and plaque.
Don’t Apply Aspirin Directly to Tooth
Avoid applying aspirin directly to the affected area. This could cause a chemical burn that could worsen toothache pain.
Toothache 101: Understanding the Causes and Finding Relief
Knowing the common causes of toothaches, including tooth decay, gum disease, plaque, and chipped or broken teeth, could help you avoid future toothache pain. Furthermore, appropriate treatment can help alleviate toothache pain and promote oral health.
Proper Oral Hygiene
Proper oral hygiene is crucial when it comes to avoiding tooth pain. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and rinsing your mouth with mouthwash could protect you from plaque, gingivitis, and tooth decay, which are the common causes of toothaches.
Getting a Filling or Extraction
If tooth decay is the cause of your toothache, a filling could help alleviate the pain. For severe decay and a more chronic issue, your dentist may recommend a root canal. In some cases, if a tooth is severely damaged or infected beyond repair, an extraction may be necessary.
Other Treatments
Other treatments for toothache depending on the cause of it include orthodontic treatment, scaling and root planing, or periodontal surgery.
How Stress Can Affect Toothaches and What You Can Do About It
Stress can cause various health issues, including toothache pain. According to studies, stress can trigger teeth grinding, temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), and gum disease. It is crucial to manage your stress levels to avoid worsening your toothache pain.
Ways to Manage Stress
There are various ways to manage stress, including yoga, meditation, deep breathing, and taking a walk. Identify what works best for you and try to incorporate it into your daily routine.
Eating for Dental Health: What Foods Can Help Fight Toothaches?
What you eat can affect your overall oral health and the pain you might experience during a toothache. Incorporating a balanced diet that includes food, very rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which are crucial for keeping your teeth and gums healthy, can be of great benefit.
Leafy Greens
Leafy greens are rich in calcium and are known to protect and even improve tooth enamel. The more calcium you take, the less likely you’ll suffer from tooth pain.
Fruits
Fruits rich in vitamin C help reduce inflammation and gum disease. They also help give nutrients the body needs to combat infection and disease.
Dairy Products
Dairy products that are high in calcium are great for oral health as they help strengthen teeth structure.
Conclusion
Dealing with toothache pain is a difficult experience. With the above home remedies, dental tips, and other helpful information, you can alleviate this problem. Proper oral hygiene, stress management, and a balanced diet can help prevent toothaches from developing. Professional treatment is recommended for severe pain or emergency cases. Don’t suffer through a toothache in silence. Take care of your oral health to avoid problems in the future.
