Before we delve into what home remedies do work, lets tackle those that don’t and are actually dangerous.
3 ‘HOME REMEDIES’ THAT DON’T WORK FOR TOOTHACHE
- Alcohol: Despite what the cowboy movies tell you whiskey, or even rubbing alcohol will not relieve toothache.
- Garlic: This Mediterranean vegetable is often used to ease toothache, but there’s no evidence that it does.
- Vanilla extract: High in ethanol, vanilla extract is commonly used as a pain reliever. But like garlic, there’s no proof that it does. Or that it’s a safe option.
3 ‘HOME REMEDIES’ THAT ARE DANGEROUS
- Aspirin on teeth: Not only doesn’t work but it will ulcerate your teeth, tongue, and all the tissue in your mouth.
- Bleach: Do not use bleach! It is highly corrosive. You will end up with serious chemical burns and painful tissue death in your mouth.
- Hydrogen peroxide: Despite its antibacterial properties, hydrogen peroxide upsets the microbiome in your mouth. This is a very bad idea if you want healthy teeth and gums as it is associated with oral cancer. And it doesn’t relieve pain.
Painkillers do not treat the cause of the pain. They merely numb it. They are only meant to help you through until you see your dentist. If you have been in pain for longer than 2 days, are in serious pain, or are experiencing other symptoms with your toothache, call your dentist right away.
7 HOME REMEDIES THAT DO WORK AND ARE HEALTHY OPTIONS
1. Acupressure/acupuncture – Despite what sceptics may think, science has proved that these natural remedies do work, especially with major issues such as:
- Acting as an anaesthetic for dental procedures
- Improving salivation to fight dry mouth, a major cause of cavities.
- Reversing nerve pain causing toothaches, after an extraction, and TMJ pain
2. A Cold compress will reduce the inflammation that leads to toothache. It is extremely useful for helping you sleep.
3. Elevation – sleeping with your head raised will help ease the pain a little.
4. Guava leaves – Chewing on the leaves or boiling them in water to make your own mouthwash is a good idea as they kill cavity-causing bacteria and can reduce inflammation.
5. Flossing – The pain may be caused by food lodged near the gum. Flossing will remove the particle.
6. Peppermint tea has both antioxidant and antibacterial properties that help in numbing painful areas. Drink it cold.
7. Salt water rinse – This is the quickest, easiest, and often the best way to relieve most toothache and gum pain at home. The water must be warm not boiling. Stir in at least 1 heaped teaspoon of salt and stir until dissolved. Swish a mouthful around in your mouth for about 30 seconds. Repeat 4 -5 times a day. This is also a good mouthwash for everyday use.
If you do have toothache, the best choice is to make an appointment immediately and chat to one of our team. Don’t leave it until the pain is excruciating. Contact us on 0508 TEAM DENTAL
