Tooth pain can strike at the most inconvenient times, making it essential to have quick, effective remedies on hand. Thankfully, you can turn to numerous DIY solutions to alleviate the discomfort without a trip to the dentist. Below, we explore 30 ways to stop tooth pain fast.
Rinsing with Salt Water
A simple salt water rinse is one of the most effective home remedies for toothache. The salt helps reduce inflammation and cleans the affected area. Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and swish it around your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out.
Applying a Cold Compress
A cold compress can help numb the pain and reduce swelling. Wrap a bag of ice or frozen peas in a towel and apply it to the affected side of your face for 15-20 minutes. This can be repeated several times a day to manage discomfort.
Clove Oil
Clove oil has natural anesthetic properties. Dab a small amount of clove oil onto a cotton ball and apply it directly to the tooth or gum area. Its eugenol content numbs the pain and fights bacteria.
Garlic
Garlic has antimicrobial properties that can help relieve tooth pain. Crush a clove of garlic, mix it with a little salt, and apply the mixture to the painful area. Garlic’s natural juices will start working on the bacteria causing the pain.
Peppermint Tea Bags
Peppermint is known for its soothing properties. Use a cooled peppermint tea bag and place it against the affected tooth. The mild numbing effect can provide temporary relief.
Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse
Hydrogen peroxide can help reduce pain and inflammation. Mix 3% hydrogen peroxide with equal parts water, swish it in your mouth, and then spit it out. This method can also help kill bacteria and relieve discomfort.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract contains alcohol, which can help numb the pain. Dab a small amount onto your finger or a cotton ball and apply it directly to the affected tooth.
Baking Soda Paste
Baking soda can help neutralize acids in the mouth and reduce inflammation. Create a paste with baking soda and water, then apply it directly to the tooth.
Onions
Onions have antimicrobial properties that can help relieve tooth pain. Chew on a small piece of raw onion for a few minutes, or place a piece of onion directly on the affected tooth.
Guava Leaves
Guava leaves have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Chew on fresh guava leaves or boil them in water, let them cool, and use the liquid as a mouthwash.
Wheatgrass Juice
Wheatgrass is known for its healing properties. Use wheatgrass juice as a mouthwash to reduce bacteria and alleviate pain.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Soak a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar and apply it to the affected tooth to reduce pain.
Cucumber Slices
Cucumber’s cooling effect can soothe tooth pain. Place a slice of fresh cucumber on the painful area for relief.
Thyme
Thyme has strong antibacterial and antioxidant properties. Make a thyme tea, let it cool, and use it as a mouthwash. Alternatively, you can apply thyme essential oil diluted with carrier oil directly to the affected area.
Turmeric Paste
Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties can help with tooth pain. Mix turmeric powder with water to form a paste and apply it to the painful tooth.
Ice Cubes
Holding an ice cube on the hand on the same side as the tooth pain can help. Rub it in the space between your thumb and forefinger for 7 minutes to numb the area.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has antibacterial properties. Dilute a few drops in water and use it as a mouthwash, or apply it directly to the tooth with a cotton swab.
Ginger-Cayenne Paste
Mix equal parts of ginger and cayenne pepper with water to create a paste. Apply it to the affected tooth to reduce pain and swelling.
Oil Pulling
Swish a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth for 15-20 minutes. This method can help reduce bacteria and improve oral health.
Salt and Pepper
A paste made from salt, pepper, and water can help alleviate tooth pain. Apply the paste directly to the affected tooth for a few minutes.
Asafetida
Mix a pinch of asafetida with lemon juice and apply it to the painful tooth. Asafetida has been known to reduce pain and swelling.
Plantain Leaves
Chew fresh plantain leaves or crush them to release their juices and apply directly to the affected tooth for relief.
Black Tea Bags
The tannins in black tea can reduce swelling and relieve pain. Place a warm, wet black tea bag on the affected tooth.
Bayberry Paste
Mix bayberry bark with vinegar to form a paste. Applying this to the affected tooth can reduce pain and inflammation.
Acupressure
Applying pressure to certain points in your body can help alleviate tooth pain. Press the area on your hand where the base of your thumb and your index finger meet.
Echinacea
Known for its immune-boosting properties, Echinacea can also reduce tooth pain. Make a tea with Echinacea and use it as a mouthwash.
Rinsing with Whiskey
A swig of whiskey can help numb the pain. Swish a small amount in your mouth, then spit it out.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile has calming and anti-inflammatory properties. Brew chamomile tea, let it cool, and use it as a mouthwash to soothe the pain.
Ice Massage
Rubbing an ice cube along the side of your jaw near the painful tooth can provide temporary relief.
Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda Paste
Combine hydrogen peroxide with baking soda to create a paste. Apply this mixture to the painful tooth for a powerful antibacterial effect.
Essential Oils
Various essential oils, like lavender or eucalyptus, can help reduce tooth pain. Dilute them with a carrier oil and apply to the affected area.
Taking care of a toothache with these DIY remedies can provide temporary relief and keep you comfortable until you can see a dentist. However, it’s important to remember that while these methods can alleviate pain, they aren’t a substitute for professional dental care. Always consult a dentist to address the root cause of your tooth pain.