Everyone probably has already experienced a toothache with an intolerable pain that lasts forsome time. While you might have already scheduled an appointment with your dentist, you can try some home remedies to alleviate the pain at least. Whether it’s you or any family member, it pays to know how to reduce the pain.
Depending on the severity of the pain, some can last for more than three days. That’s why it’s best to consult your family dentist or any dentist from reputable clinics like Boon Dental to avoid prolonged pain and potential complications.
While waiting for your appointment, you may try these home remedies that are known to be effective against dental pain.
1. Cold Compress
Cold compresses may helpsoothe the pain of toothaches. Fortunately, an ice pack is a household staple so you can easily find one when you need it. By applying a cold compress, the blood vessels in the affected area constrict, which helps in lessening the pain. The same way it works for typical bruises and injuries, cold compresses work fortoothaches as they help reduce inflammation and swelling.
When doing a cold compress, wrap some ice in a towel and press iton the affected area forup to 15 minutes, then alternate the application every 20 minutes. You may also use an ice pack for easier application.
2. Clove Oil
The numbing properties of clove oil are similar to that of over-the-counter pain medications such as benzocaine, which makes it an effective natural remedy for toothaches. While this may not be commonly available in your home, you can easily find it in health stores or pharmacies near you. It costs cheaper than other alternatives, so it's an excellent item to keep handyin your house.
To use it for tooth pain, you have to pour a few drops into a cotton ball and apply it to the swollen area. It's best not to consume any food and drink for a while so the oil can penetrate the area. You can also combine clove oil with other carrier oils like olive oil to reduce potency.
3. Aspirin
Toothache can be eased by taking an over-the-counter pain reliever like aspirin.A component of aspirin called acetylsalicylic acid slows down the production of hormones that cause pain. The medicine is absorbed into the intestines and then into the blood. It is then distributed throughout your body, inhibiting the production of pain-causing hormones to provide relief. If the pain keeps coming back, schedulea visit with your dentist as soon as possible. Also, your dentist would probably recommend the use of fluoride-free toothpaste to prevent tooth decay, which might cause toothache.
4. DIY Mouthwash
Mouthwashes may help relievepain. It can help to kill bacteria that cause toothache. Here are some homemade mouthwashes that mayhelp alleviate tooth pain:
• Saltwater
Prepare eight ounces of warm water and stir it with a teaspoon of salt. Garglewith this solution and repeat every four hours to relieve dental pain. Besides helping to dislodge food particles stuck between your teeth, saltwater also reduces inflammation and swelling. This is a soothing treatment for sore and irritated gums too.
• Hydrogen Peroxide
The hydrogen peroxide solution is another alternative for mouthwash. To make one, fill 3/4 of a glass with water then 1/4 H2O2 with 3% concentration. Gargle for 60seconds to kill bacteria and eventually relieve pain. This is especially effective when your tooth pain has already caused a fever and a foul taste in your mouth.
5. Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera gel is commonly used as a treatment for burns and minor cuts. That’s why it's always handy to have an aloe vera plant in your home which you can use in times of emergency. The gel from the plant is known effectivein cleaning and soothing gums.
The natural antibacterial properties of aloe vera help eliminate germs that may cause tooth decay. When applying aloe vera gel,keep your tongue from coming into contact withthe affected area for best results.
6. Oral Pain Relief Ointment
Another effective way to deal with dental pain is to use medicated pain relief ointments. For instance, you use numbing oral creams or gels, which contain benzocaine, an ingredient known to alleviate pain from minor mouth problems. Aside from toothache, they’re helpful in treating canker sores, sore gums, sore throat, and other gum or mouth injuries. However,take note that this requires careful application so it’s best for young children to avoid this medication.
Conclusion
In our lifetime, we experience toothaches. Fortunately, applying home remedies may help you alleviate tooth pain while waiting for your dental appointment. Do note, however, that although these remedies are known to be effective, it’s always recommended to consult your dentist for proper medication and advice.
