A toothache can be debilitating. Your dentist is ready to provide treatment to address the cause of your pain and get you back to feeling your best, so you should schedule an emergency appointment as soon as you can. But what if you have to wait a few days to get professional treatment? The following home remedies offer some simple ideas for easing your discomfort when you have a toothache.
Clove Oil
One of the primary chemical compounds in cloves is called eugenol, which is a natural anesthetic. To take advantage of it, simply place a few drops of clove oil on a cotton ball. Hold the cotton ball against your aching tooth until you notice a reduction in pain. Remember that you should not use a dropper to place clove oil directly onto your tooth. It might drip onto your gums and cause irritation.
Salt Water
Salt water offers a simple and powerful way to reduce inflammation and combat oral discomfort. All you have to do is dissolve a teaspoon of salt into one cup of boiling water. Wait until the mixture cools enough for you to place it into your mouth, and then swish with it for about 30 seconds before you spit it out. Repeat this process several times a day.
Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea can kill harmful oral bacteria, and it may provide a slight numbing sensation as well. Simply steep fresh peppermint leaves in hot water for about 20 minutes before swishing it around your mouth. You could also try steeping a peppermint tea bag for a few minutes, then placing the warm bag directly on your tooth.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla is typically used as an ingredient in baked goods, but it can do so much more than create tasty treats. It can also dull toothache pain and promote healing. Just place a few drops of vanilla extract on a cotton ball and place it on your tooth. Be sure to use genuine vanilla extract, not imitation vanilla flavoring.
Cold
A cold compress can lessen blood flow to your aching tooth, thereby fighting swelling and providing a bit of pain relief. Wrap some ice in a towel and place it on the painful area for 20 minutes at a time. Repeat the process every few hours.
Over-the-Counter Medications
Both acetaminophen and ibuprofen can work to reduce inflammation and lower your pain levels. Alternate between them to enjoy the best results. You might also head to your local pharmacy to purchase an oral analgesic that you can apply directly to your tooth.
A severe toothache can disrupt all your plans! The best way to deal with the situation is to receive care from a dentist. In the meantime, though, the above remedies can help you to stay relatively comfortable.
Meet the Practice
Boerne Dental Center is home to three talented dentists, who have accumulated several decades of combined experience. If you are struggling with tooth pain, they are ready to assess the problem and recommend a practical solution. To learn more about our practice and how we may be able to serve you, contact us at 830-249-2045.