Do you have a toothache that won’t go away? Tooth pain can be extremely uncomfortable and can cause many people to suffer in silence. But there are treatments available that can help bring relief. In this post, we will discuss the causes of tooth pain, the different types of treatments, and how to find the right dentist for your needs. We will also provide tips on how to prevent toothaches and maintain good oral health. With the right information and care, you can get back to smiling in no time!
What Exactly is Toothache?
Toothache, also known as Dant ka Dard (Hindi/Urdu), Dat Dukhi (Marathi), Palvali (Tamil), Panti noppi (Telugu), Palluvedana (Malayalam), Yatong (Chinese), Dolor de muelas (Spanish), dor de dente (Portuguese), Dantashul (Bengali), Zubnaya bol’ (Russian), and Sakit Gigi (Indonesian), can be caused by various factors. These include receding gums, cavities, sensitivity due to hyperacidity, or infection. If high acidity is the problem, the person may experience heartburn and acid indigestion in addition to toothache. When teeth have cavities or gums are receding, the roots of the teeth may become exposed, making these nerve areas sensitive to cold or heat.
Don’t just settle for getting rid of the pain. If you have a cavity, be sure to get it taken care of. Additionally, follow the recommendations for healthy teeth and gums to avoid future problems. Toothache can also be caused by untreated tooth decay or gum disease, a broken or cracked tooth, a missing cap, or a lost filling. It’s essential to address these issues promptly to prevent further complications.
Curing odontalgia (toothache) and tooth decay naturally may offer temporary relief, but professional care is required as soon as possible, either from your dentist or a medical doctor. If toothache strikes late at night or over a weekend and you can’t get an appointment right away, these simple steps can help ease the pain temporarily. Rinsing with warm salt water, applying a cold compress, and using over-the-counter pain relievers can provide some relief until you can see a professional.
Root Causes
Toothache or pain in a tooth is often a result of tooth decay (or “caries”). When the hard enamel of the tooth is damaged, it allows infecting organisms to enter, leading to inflammation and pain. If a tooth is sensitive to heat, cold, or sweet things, or if the pain lasts for more than a few minutes, the nerves in the tooth may be inflamed due to advanced decay. If pain is absent except when you bite, your tooth or filling may be broken. In either case, it is recommended that you see your dentist within 48 hours.
Toothache after a filling is not unusual, especially when exposed to cold air or drinks. Dental caries is a bacterial destruction of the enamel and dentine of the tooth. If untreated, it can lead to an infection of the dental pulp and an abscess at the apex of the tooth. The bacteria produce both acid and enzymes that break down the tooth. Sweet foods that stick to the tooth increase bacterial activity. Saliva tends to protect against caries, so decreased saliva flow usually increases the risk of caries. Additionally, tooth shape and hereditary factors also determine susceptibility to the disease. Other factors contributing to toothache include gum disease, tooth abscesses, and sinus infections, which can refer pain to the teeth.
Toothache Pain Relief Home Remedies
Check out the best home remedies that offer immediate relief from the severe pain caused by toothache. Toothache remedies with clove, peppermint tea bags, salt water, hydrogen peroxide and vanilla extract that really work.
1. Camphor
A small piece of natural, edible camphor (not the synthetic kind, which is poisonous) can be placed next to the painful tooth. The saliva will mix with the camphor and will relieve the toothache.
2. Ginger + Red Pepper
A compress of Ginger and Red Pepper. Mix the powdered spices in enough water to form a paste. Use a small cotton ball to dip in the paste then apply the cotton directly to the tooth without letting it touch the gum. If it is too hot, rinse your mouth and try a different remedy.
3. Homemade Mouthwash
Add 1/4 teaspoon salt and 3 drops pure clove essential oil to about 6 ounces of warm water in a glass. Stir until the salt dissolves. Swish small mouthfuls of this mixture around the painful tooth. Spit; don’t swallow. Repeat as needed. OR Apply 3 drops of clove oil to the affected tooth.
4. DIY Herbal Toothpaste
1 pinch powdered Sage, 1 ounce powdered Myrrh, 1 pound powdered Arrow Root, 20 drops Oil of Clover, 12 drops Oil of Bergamot, 1/2 ounce powdered chalk, 3 ounces powdered Oris Root, 4 teaspoons tincture of Vanilla, 15 drops Oil of Rose Geranium.
5. Oil
Fill a bowl with hot water and add 4 – 5 drops of chamomile oil. Soak a clean face cloth or folded piece of clean cotton in the bowl, and wring it out. Apply the compress to the affected area until it has cooled or warmed to body temperature. OR Dip a small cotton ball into cinnamon oil and apply to the affected area.
6. Gum Cleaning Herbs
For general cleaning of the teeth and caring for the gums, Ayurvedic dentistry recommends the use of certain bitter and astringent herbs, particularly neem, which is bitter, and lodhra, kushtha, and bilva, which are all astringent. You can make an excellent cleanser for brushing your teeth by mixing the powdered form of these herbs. You can use neem plus any one of the other three, mixed in equal proportions. Rinsing your mouth with a tea made from these herbs is also beneficial.
7. Peppermint Tea
Make a cup of peppermint tea. Swish small mouthfuls of the liquid gently around the affected tooth.
8. Cold Compress
Place an ice pack on your cheek (with a paper towel or thin, soft cloth in between to protect your skin) over the painful tooth. Apply for 5 minutes every hour.
9. Clove Oil
Clove oil has a long history of use as a natural remedy for toothache. It contains a natural analgesic eugenol, which helps to block pain signals from the affected area and also has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Clove oil has been found to reduce pain and inflammation, and can be used as a topical treatment for toothache.
- Put a few drops of clove oil on a cotton ball.
- Gently press the cotton ball to the affected area of your gums or teeth.
- Hold the cotton ball in place for a few minutes.
- Rinse your mouth with warm water.
- Repeat the process two or three times a day as needed.
10. Turmeric
Turmeric has long been used as an anti-inflammatory and pain reliever. Its active ingredient, curcumin, has been shown to reduce inflammation and provide relief from the pain of a toothache. Additionally, the antiseptic properties of turmeric may help to fight bacteria and prevent infection.
- Rinse your mouth with a mixture of 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder and 1 cup of warm water.
- Swish the mixture around your mouth for about 30 seconds, then spit it out.
- Repeat this process several times a day until the toothache has subsided.
- Mix 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder with a few drops of warm water or sesame oil to make a paste.
- Apply the paste to the affected area and leave it to sit for 10 minutes.
- Rinse it off with lukewarm water.
- Repeat this remedy twice a day until the toothache has gone away.
11. Ginger
Ginger has long been used as a natural remedy to relieve toothache pain. It is a natural anti-inflammatory which helps to reduce swelling and pain. It also has antiseptic properties which can help to reduce infection. Ginger also contains compounds that can numb the pain of a toothache. Here are few ideas and tips to use for toothache.
- Make a Ginger Paste: Take a piece of fresh ginger root and grind it into a paste. Apply the paste directly to the affected tooth and the surrounding gums. Leave it on for 10 minutes and then rinse with warm water.
- Make a Ginger Tea: Peel and grate a piece of ginger root and add it to a cup of boiling water. Let it steep for 10 minutes and then strain the tea. Use it as a mouthwash, swishing the liquid around your mouth for a few minutes. Spit it out and rinse with warm water.
- Take a Ginger Supplement: Ginger supplements are available in capsule or tablet form. Follow the dosage instructions on the bottle and take as directed.
- Use a Ginger Poultice: Cut a piece of fresh ginger root into small pieces and mash them into a paste. Place the paste directly on the affected tooth and the surrounding gums. Leave it on for 10 minutes and then rinse with warm water.
12. Onion
Onion can be used to relieve tooth pain with many different methods.
- Place a slice of raw onion directly on the affected tooth and leave it there for 5-10 minutes.
- Make a paste from onion juice and salt and apply it directly to the affected tooth.
- Chew a few slices of raw onion for a few minutes to help numb the area.
- Make an onion tincture by soaking chopped onion in vodka for a few days. Swish the tincture around in your mouth for a few minutes then spit it out.
13. Garlic
Garlic has a long history of use as a natural remedy for toothache. It contains a compound called allicin, which has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great natural remedy for relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and killing bacteria that can cause toothache. Garlic is also a natural analgesic, so it can provide relief from the pain of toothache.
- Crush a garlic clove and mix it with a few drops of olive oil to create a paste.
- Apply the paste directly to the affected tooth for five minutes.
- Spit out the paste and rinse your mouth with warm water.
- Repeat this process two to three times a day for several days.
14. Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper may help to reduce tooth pain when applied topically. It contains capsaicin, a compound that can temporarily reduce pain. Capsaicin in cayenne peppers binds to the nerve endings in the mouth, thereby reducing the sensation of pain. Additionally, cayenne pepper has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria that can cause tooth pain.
- Mix a teaspoon of cayenne pepper with a tablespoon of olive oil, then apply the mixture directly to the affected tooth.
- Leave the mixture on for a few minutes, then rinse your mouth with warm water.
- Repeat this process several times a day for several days.
- If you find that the cayenne pepper is too strong, mix it with a teaspoon of honey before applying it.
- Make sure to spit out the mixture after each application, and rinse your mouth with warm water.
Tips for Permanent Healthy Teeth
- Brush your teeth after every meal. If you can’t brush after a meal, drink water, swish, and spit to remove residual food particles.
- Floss at least once a day, preferably twice, before you brush.
- Replace your toothbrush every two to three months.
- Keep up with regular dental checkups, including cleanings. Ask your dentist how often you should come.
FAQs.
Q. How can you relieve tooth pain?
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever.
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to reduce inflammation and help clean the area.
- Place a cold compress on your face to reduce swelling and numb the pain.
- Use a numbing gel like Orajel to temporarily relieve the pain.
- Try clove oil, a natural remedy with antiseptic and numbing properties.
- See your dentist as soon as possible to diagnose and treat the cause of your pain.
Q. What is the solution to wisdom tooth pain?
The best solution for wisdom tooth pain is to visit your dentist. Your dentist can examine the area, determine the cause of the pain, and provide treatment options. Treatment options may include extraction, root canal therapy, or antibiotics to reduce swelling and pain.
Q. Can you treat tooth pain with alcohol?
No, alcohol cannot be used to treat tooth pain. Using alcohol for tooth pain is not recommended as it can cause further damage to the teeth and gums. If you are experiencing tooth pain, it is best to contact a dentist immediately to determine the cause and receive the proper treatment.
Q. What is causing my tooth pain 10 months after extraction?
This could be caused by a number of things, including dry socket, infection, nerve damage, or a retained root fragment. It is important that you see your dentist as soon as possible to get a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Q. What is the best home remedy for tooth pain caused by an exposed nerve?
The best home remedy for tooth pain caused by an exposed nerve is to rinse your mouth with warm salt water. Mix one teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds. This should help to reduce the pain and inflammation. Additionally, you can also apply a cold compress to the affected area to reduce swelling and pain. Over-the-counter painkillers can also help to provide relief. However, if the pain persists or worsens, it is best to visit your dentist as soon as possible.
Q. How can I stop abscess tooth pain?
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water.
- Take a pain reliever.
- Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to help reduce swelling.
- Apply clove oil to the affected area.
- See your dentist as soon as possible to have the abscess drained and treated.
Q. Can smoking cigarettes cause tooth pain? If so, how?
Yes, smoking cigarettes can cause tooth pain. The smoke and tar of cigarettes can erode the enamel on the teeth, making them more vulnerable to decaying and infection. This can cause sensitivity and pain to the teeth. Additionally, smoking can also cause gum disease which can lead to additional tooth pain.
Q. What causes tooth pain after eating?
Tooth pain after eating can be caused by a number of factors, including tooth decay, gum disease, cracked teeth, abscessed teeth, sensitivity to hot or cold foods, or an infection. It is important to see a dentist for a diagnosis and to determine the best course of treatment for the underlying cause of the pain.
Q. Is there any natural pain killers for tooth pain?
Yes, there are several natural pain killers for tooth pain. These include clove oil, peppermint oil, garlic, onion, ginger, cayenne pepper, and salt water. All of these can be applied directly to the affected area to relieve pain. Additionally, herbal teas, such as chamomile, can help reduce inflammation and provide relief.
Q. How can I relieve the pain of a hole in my tooth?
The best way to relieve the pain of a hole in your tooth is to see a dentist as soon as possible. They will be able to assess the extent of the damage and provide the best treatment options. Depending on the severity of the hole, the dentist may recommend a filling, root canal, or even a tooth extraction. In the meantime, you can take over-the-counter pain relief medication and apply a cold compress to the affected area to help reduce swelling and pain.
Q. How fast does clove oil work for toothache?
The effects of clove oil on toothache can vary from person to person. Typically, clove oil can provide relief from toothache pain within minutes, but it may take up to an hour to experience the full benefits.
Q. Is it OK to put clove oil on your gums?
Clove oil is often used to treat gum pain and inflammation. It is considered safe to apply clove oil directly to the gums. However, it is always best to consult your dentist before applying any topical treatments to your gums.
Q. Is garlic good for the teeth? Is garlic a good antibiotic for tooth infection?
Yes, garlic has many potential benefits for your teeth. It contains compounds that can help control the growth of bacteria in your mouth and may also help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Additionally, garlic is a natural antiseptic and has been shown to reduce gum disease.
Q. Can I brush my teeth with turmeric powder?
Although turmeric is a natural antiseptic and can help whiten teeth, it is not a recommended product to use when brushing your teeth. Turmeric can be abrasive and cause damage to the enamel of your teeth, leading to sensitivity and other dental problems. Additionally, it can be difficult to rinse off completely, leaving a yellowish residue on your teeth. It is best to stick to toothpaste and other dental products specifically designed for brushing your teeth.
Q. Can salt water make a tooth infection worse?
No, salt water can actually help to reduce the pain of a tooth infection and can help to reduce swelling. However, it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be used to replace any prescribed antibiotics.