11 Home and Natural Remedies for Toothache Pain

Toothaches can be excruciating and disruptive, making even the simplest tasks seem unbearable. While professional dental care is essential for resolving dental issues, there are numerous home and natural remedies that can help provide temporary relief from toothache pain. In this article, we will delve into 11 effective remedies that can alleviate discomfort and promote oral health. These remedies have been tried and tested over time and can offer a safe and natural alternative to alleviate toothache pain. Let’s explore these remedies in detail.

1. Cold compress

A toothache can be incredibly uncomfortable, causing throbbing pain and disrupting daily activities. While it’s crucial to seek professional dental care for a long-term solution, a cold compress can offer quick and natural relief from toothache pain. A cold compress, when applied to the affected area, can provide a numbing and soothing effect, reducing inflammation and discomfort. Let’s delve into how to use a cold compress for toothache relief effectively.

How to Make and Apply a Cold Compress:

1. Gather Supplies: To create a cold compress, you’ll need a clean cloth or towel and a small bag of ice cubes or a cold gel pack.
2. Wrap the Cold Source: Place the ice cubes or cold gel pack in the cloth or towel. If using ice cubes, you can secure them by tying the ends of the cloth together to create a makeshift ice pack.
3. Apply to the Affected Area: Hold the cold compress gently against the side of your face where the toothache is located. Avoid applying excessive pressure, as it may worsen the pain.
4. Timing: Keep the cold compress on the affected area for about 15 minutes. You can repeat this process every 1 to 2 hours as needed for relief.

The Benefits of Using a Cold Compress for Toothache:

1. Numbing Effect: The cold temperature of the compress helps numb the nerve endings around the affected tooth, reducing the perception of pain.
2. Reduces Inflammation: Cold compresses can help constrict blood vessels, which in turn reduces inflammation and swelling in the gums and surrounding tissues.
3. Easy and Accessible: Utilizing a cold compress is a straightforward and affordable home remedy for toothache pain, and most people have access to the necessary supplies.

Precautions and Tips:

• Avoid Direct Contact: To prevent frostbite or skin irritation, never place the cold compress directly on the skin. Always wrap it in a cloth or towel before applying it to the affected area.
• Temporary Relief: While a cold compress can offer temporary relief, it does not address the root cause of the toothache. Professional dental care is essential for diagnosing and treating the underlying issue.
• Time Limit: Limit each application of the cold compress to 15 minutes to avoid potential skin damage. Longer exposure to extreme colds can harm the skin.
• Seek Professional Help: If the toothache persists or worsens despite using the cold compress, it is crucial to consult a dentist promptly for a proper examination and appropriate treatment.

2. Saltwater rinse

A saltwater rinse is a simple yet effective home remedy for relieving toothache pain. This natural antiseptic solution can help reduce inflammation, kill harmful bacteria, and soothe the affected area, providing temporary relief until you can seek professional dental care. Using a saltwater rinse is easy and requires only basic ingredients found in most households.

How to Prepare and Use a Saltwater Rinse:

1. Gather Supplies: You’ll need table salt (preferably sea salt) and warm water. Make sure the water is not too hot to avoid discomfort.
2. Mix the Solution: Add half a teaspoon of salt to a cup of warm water. Stir the water until the salt is fully dissolved.
3. Swish and Rinse: Take a mouthful of the saltwater solution and swish it around your mouth for about 30 seconds. Focus on the side where the toothache is located.
4. Spit it Out: After swishing, spit out the saltwater solution into the sink. Avoid swallowing it.
5. Repeat as Needed: You can repeat the saltwater rinse multiple times a day, especially after meals or whenever you feel discomfort.

Benefits of a Saltwater Rinse for Toothache:

1. Natural Antiseptic: Salt has natural antibacterial properties, which can help kill harmful bacteria in the mouth and reduce the risk of infection.
2. Reduces Inflammation: The warm saltwater helps reduce inflammation in the gums and surrounding tissues, providing relief from swelling and discomfort.
3. Soothes Irritation: The gentle swishing action of the saltwater can provide a soothing effect on the affected area, easing the pain.

Tips and Precautions:

• Use Warm Water: It’s essential to use warm, not hot, water for the saltwater rinse to avoid causing additional pain.
• Proper Dilution: Stick to the recommended ratio of half a teaspoon of salt to one cup of warm water. Avoid using excess salt, as it may cause a burning sensation.
• Avoid Swallowing: Be sure to spit out the saltwater solution after rinsing. Swallowing the salt water can lead to dehydration and an upset stomach.
• Temporary Relief: A saltwater rinse provides temporary relief and is not a substitute for professional dental care. If the pain persists or worsens, consult a dentist promptly.

3. Hydrogen peroxide rinse

A hydrogen peroxide rinse is an antimicrobial solution that can help combat oral infections and provide temporary relief from toothache pain. This home remedy is easy to prepare and use, but it’s essential to follow proper dilution and precautions to ensure safe application.

How to Prepare and Use a Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse:

1. Gather Supplies: You’ll need a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution and water.
2. Dilute the Solution: Mix equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and water to create the rinse solution. For example, use half a cup of water and half a cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide.
3. Swish the Rinse: Take a mouthful of the diluted solution and swish it around your mouth for about 30 seconds. Focus on the area where the toothache is present.
4. Spit it Out: After swishing, spit out the rinse into the sink. Do not swallow the solution.
5. Rinse with Water: Rinse your mouth with plain water to remove any residual hydrogen peroxide.
6. Repeat as Needed: You can perform the hydrogen peroxide rinse two to three times a day or as directed by your dentist.

Benefits of a Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse for Toothache:

1. Antibacterial Properties: Hydrogen peroxide has antibacterial properties that can help eliminate harmful bacteria in the mouth, reducing the risk of infection.
2. Reduces Inflammation: The rinse may help reduce inflammation and soothe the affected area, providing relief from swelling and discomfort.
3. Cleansing Action: Hydrogen peroxide can act as a cleansing agent, promoting better oral hygiene.

Tips and Precautions:

• Proper Dilution: Always dilute hydrogen peroxide with water to the appropriate concentration (3%). Using undiluted hydrogen peroxide can cause irritation and damage to oral tissues.
• Avoid Swallowing: Ensure you do not swallow the hydrogen peroxide rinse, as it may lead to gastrointestinal upset.
• Temporary Relief: A hydrogen peroxide rinse provides temporary relief from toothache pain. It is not a substitute for professional dental care to address the underlying dental issue.

4. Garlic

Garlic, a common kitchen ingredient known for its distinctive aroma and flavor, also boasts powerful medicinal properties. Among its many health benefits, garlic has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for toothache pain. The compound allicin found in garlic is primarily responsible for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, making it an excellent option for alleviating toothache discomfort.

How to Use Garlic for Toothache:

1. Peel and Crush Garlic: Start by peeling a fresh garlic clove and crushing it to release its natural oils and juices.
2. Form a Garlic Paste: After crushing, mix the garlic with a pinch of salt to create a paste. The salt enhances its antimicrobial properties.
3. Application to Affected Area: Apply the garlic paste directly to the affected tooth and surrounding gums. Be gentle during application to avoid causing further irritation.
4. Allow Time for Relief: Leave the garlic paste on the affected area for a few minutes, allowing its compounds to work their magic.
5. Rinse with Warm Water: After the application, rinse your mouth thoroughly with warm water to remove any remnants of garlic and soothe your mouth.
6. Repeat as Needed: You can repeat this process two to three times a day or whenever you experience toothache pain.

Benefits of Garlic for Toothache:

1. Antimicrobial Properties: Garlic’s potent antimicrobial properties help combat oral bacteria, reducing the risk of infection and further complications.
2. Natural Pain Reliever: The allicin in garlic acts as a natural pain reliever, providing temporary relief from toothache discomfort.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Garlic’s anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce swelling and inflammation in the affected area.

Tips and Precautions:

• Use Fresh Garlic: Opt for fresh garlic cloves rather than pre-minced or processed garlic for maximum effectiveness.
• Sensitive Teeth or Gums: If you have sensitive teeth or gums, be cautious when applying garlic paste to avoid any potential irritation.
• Temporary Relief: Garlic is a natural remedy for temporary relief from toothache pain. It is not a substitute for professional dental care.

5. Vanilla extract

While vanilla extract is commonly used to add flavor to desserts and baked goods, it also holds potential as a natural remedy for toothache pain. Vanilla extract contains alcohol and compounds that possess mild analgesic and soothing properties. Although it may not provide a complete cure for toothache, using vanilla extract can offer temporary relief and make the discomfort more bearable until you can seek professional dental care.

How to Use Vanilla Extract for Toothache:

1. Select Pure Vanilla Extract: Ensure you have pure vanilla extract rather than artificial or imitation vanilla, as the latter may not have the same beneficial properties.
2. Soak a Cotton Ball: Dip a cotton ball into the vanilla extract to absorb a small amount of the liquid.
3. Apply to the Affected Area: Gently place the soaked cotton ball directly on the affected tooth and surrounding gums.
4. Allow Time for Soothing: Leave the cotton ball in place for a few minutes, allowing the vanilla’s properties to work on the painful area.
5. Rinse Your Mouth: Afterward, you can rinse your mouth with lukewarm water to remove any residual taste.
6. Repeat as Needed: You can repeat this process multiple times a day or whenever you experience toothache pain.

Benefits of Vanilla Extract for Toothache:

1. Mild Analgesic Effect: The alcohol in vanilla extract can act as a mild analgesic, providing temporary pain relief.
2. Soothing and Calming: The comforting aroma and mild numbing effect of vanilla extract can help soothe the nerves in the affected area.
3. Easy and Accessible: Vanilla extract is a readily available kitchen ingredient, making it a convenient remedy for toothache.

Tips and Precautions:

• Use Pure Extract: Always use pure vanilla extract without any additives or artificial ingredients for the best results.
• Temporary Relief: Vanilla extract provides temporary relief from toothache pain and should not replace professional dental care.
• Avoid Sugary Products: When using vanilla extract for toothache, avoid consuming sugary foods and drinks as they may exacerbate the pain.

6. Clove

Clove, a fragrant spice with a rich history in traditional medicine, is a potent natural remedy for toothache pain. Cloves contain a compound called eugenol, which exhibits powerful analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. This makes cloves an excellent option for providing quick and effective relief from toothache discomfort. Utilizing cloves for toothache is simple and accessible, making it a popular choice for soothing dental pain.

How to Use Clove for Toothache:

1. Whole Cloves or Clove Oil: You can use either whole cloves or clove oil for this remedy. Whole cloves can be found in most spice sections of grocery stores, while clove oil is available at pharmacies or health stores.
2. Whole Cloves: If using whole cloves, place one or two cloves directly on the affected tooth and gently bite down to release the eugenol. Keep the cloves in your mouth for several minutes to allow the compound to take effect.
3. Clove Oil: If using clove oil, soak a cotton ball in a few drops of clove oil and place it on the affected tooth. Alternatively, you can mix a few drops of clove oil with a carrier oil, such as olive oil, and apply it to the tooth and surrounding gums using a cotton swab.
4. Leave in Place: Allow the cloves or clove oil to remain in place for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until you experience relief from the pain.
5. Rinse Mouth (Optional): If desired, you can rinse your mouth with lukewarm water after using the cloves or clove oil.
6. Repeat as Needed: You can repeat this process two to three times a day or whenever you experience toothache pain.

Benefits of Clove for Toothache:

1. Natural Analgesic: Eugenol in cloves acts as a natural analgesic, numbing the nerves and providing fast pain relief.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Cloves possess anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and inflammation in the affected area.
3. Antimicrobial Action: Clove’s antimicrobial properties can help combat oral bacteria, reducing the risk of infection.

Tips and Precautions:

• Avoid Swallowing: Whether using whole cloves or clove oil, ensure you do not swallow them. Spit out the cloves after use and avoid ingesting clove oil.
• Discontinue if Irritation Occurs: If you experience any adverse reactions or irritation from using cloves, discontinue use immediately.
• Temporary Relief: Cloves provide temporary relief from toothache pain and are not a substitute for professional dental care.

7. Guava leaves

Guava leaves, often overlooked for their medicinal properties, can be a powerful remedy for toothache pain. These leaves contain compounds like flavonoids, tannins, and essential oils that possess natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. Using guava leaves for toothache can provide soothing relief and help combat oral bacteria, making it a valuable and accessible home remedy.

How to Use Guava Leaves for Toothache:

1. Select Fresh Guava Leaves: Choose fresh and clean guava leaves from a guava tree or buy them from a reputable store.
2. Wash the Leaves: Thoroughly wash the guava leaves with water to remove any impurities.
3. Chew the Leaves: Chew one or two guava leaves, allowing the juices to come into contact with the affected tooth and gums. Alternatively, you can crush the leaves to release their juices and apply the paste directly to the painful area.
4. Hold the Leaves: Hold the chewed or crushed guava leaves against the affected tooth for a few minutes to experience the pain-relieving effects.
5. Spit Out or Rinse (Optional): After using the guava leaves, you can spit them out or rinse your mouth with lukewarm water to remove any remnants.
6. Repeat as Needed: You can repeat this process two to three times a day or whenever you experience toothache pain.

Benefits of Guava Leaves for Toothache:

1. Natural Analgesic: Guava leaves contain compounds with natural analgesic properties, providing fast relief from toothache pain.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: The anti-inflammatory compounds in guava leaves can help reduce swelling and inflammation in the affected area.
3. Antimicrobial Action: Guava leaves possess antimicrobial properties, helping combat oral bacteria and reducing the risk of infection.

Tips and Precautions:

• Use Fresh Leaves: Fresh guava leaves are more potent and effective than dried leaves.
• Spit Out the Leaves: Avoid swallowing the guava leaves after use to prevent ingestion of any harmful substances.
• Temporary Relief: Guava leaves offer temporary relief from toothache pain and should not replace professional dental care.

8. Peppermint tea bags

Peppermint tea bags can be a refreshing and soothing remedy for toothache pain. Peppermint contains menthol, which has natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Using peppermint tea bags as a compress can provide temporary relief from toothache discomfort and help calm the affected area.

How to Use Peppermint Tea Bags for Toothache:

1. Select Peppermint Tea Bags: Choose high-quality peppermint tea bags without any added flavors or ingredients.
2. Brew the Tea Bags: Prepare the peppermint tea bags by steeping them in hot water for a few minutes. Make sure the tea is strong and has a distinct peppermint aroma.
3. Cool the Tea Bags: After steeping, remove the tea bags from the hot water and allow them to cool down slightly. You can also refrigerate them for a more refreshing effect.
4. Apply as a Compress: Gently place the cooled peppermint tea bags on the affected tooth and surrounding gums. Hold them in place for about 15 to 20 minutes.
5. Rinse Your Mouth (Optional): If desired, you can rinse your mouth with lukewarm water after using the peppermint tea bags.
6. Repeat as Needed: You can repeat this process two to three times a day or whenever you experience toothache pain.

Benefits of Peppermint Tea Bags for Toothache:

1. Natural Analgesic: The menthol in peppermint has natural analgesic properties, providing temporary pain relief.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Peppermint’s anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce swelling and inflammation in the affected area.
3. Soothing and Refreshing: The cool and refreshing sensation of peppermint tea bags can help soothe and calm the discomfort.

Tips and Precautions:

• Check Temperature: Ensure the tea bags are not too hot before applying them to the affected area to avoid burns.
• Dispose of Used Tea Bags: Discard the used peppermint tea bags after each application.
• Temporary Relief: Peppermint tea bags offer temporary relief from toothache pain and are not a substitute for professional dental care.

9. Thyme

Thyme, a fragrant herb commonly used in culinary dishes, also offers herbal relief for toothache pain. Thyme contains compounds like thymol, which possess natural analgesic and antimicrobial properties. Using thyme as a mouthwash or a compress can provide soothing relief and help combat oral bacteria, making it a valuable and accessible home remedy.

How to Use Thyme for Toothache:

1. Select Fresh Thyme or Thyme Oil: Choose fresh thyme leaves or thyme oil for this remedy. Fresh thyme can be found in grocery stores, while thyme oil is available at pharmacies or health stores.
2. Thyme Mouthwash: To make a thyme mouthwash, steep a handful of fresh thyme leaves in a cup of hot water for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain the liquid and let it cool down.
3. Thyme Compress: If using thyme oil, mix a few drops with carrier oil, such as olive oil, and apply it to the affected tooth and surrounding gums using a cotton swab.
4. Gargle or Apply: For the thyme mouthwash, gargle the cooled liquid in your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out. For the thyme compress, leave it in place for a few minutes.
5. Rinse Your Mouth (Optional): After using thyme, you can rinse your mouth with lukewarm water to remove any residual taste.
6. Repeat as Needed: You can repeat the thyme mouthwash or thyme compress two to three times a day or whenever you experience toothache pain.

Benefits of Thyme for Toothache:

1. Natural Analgesic: Thyme contains thymol, which acts as a natural analgesic, providing temporary pain relief.
2. Antimicrobial Action: Thyme’s antimicrobial properties help combat oral bacteria, reducing the risk of infection and promoting oral health.
3. Soothing Effect: The herbal properties of thyme can have a calming and soothing effect on the affected area.

Tips and Precautions:

• Use Fresh Thyme or Pure Thyme Oil: Ensure you use fresh thyme leaves or pure thyme oil without any additives for the best results.
• Avoid Swallowing: Whether using thyme mouthwash or thyme oil, avoid swallowing the liquid to prevent ingestion of any harmful substances.
• Temporary Relief: Thyme provides temporary relief from toothache pain and should not replace professional dental care.

10. Wheatgrass

Wheatgrass, the young shoots of the wheat plant, is not only a popular health drink but also a potent natural remedy for toothache pain. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and chlorophyll, wheatgrass exhibits powerful anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can provide relief from toothache discomfort and promote oral health.

How to Use Wheatgrass for Toothache:

1. Fresh Wheatgrass Juice: Obtain fresh wheatgrass from health food stores or juice bars. Extract the juice by crushing the wheatgrass in a juicer or using a blender and straining the liquid.
2. Wheatgrass Mouthwash: Dilute the fresh wheatgrass juice with an equal amount of water to create a wheatgrass mouthwash.
3. Gargle the Mouthwash: Take a mouthful of the wheatgrass mouthwash and gargle it in your mouth for about 30 seconds to a minute. Focus on the area where the toothache is located.
4. Spit it Out: After gargling, spit out the wheatgrass mouthwash into the sink. Avoid swallowing it to prevent ingestion of any harmful substances.
5. Repeat as Needed: You can repeat the wheatgrass mouthwash two to three times a day or whenever you experience toothache pain.

Benefits of Wheatgrass for Toothache:

1. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Wheatgrass contains chlorophyll and other compounds that possess anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce swelling and inflammation in the affected area.
2. Antimicrobial Action: The natural antimicrobial properties of wheatgrass can combat oral bacteria, reducing the risk of infection and promoting oral hygiene.
3. Nutrient-Rich: Wheatgrass is rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals like iron and calcium, which can contribute to overall oral health.

Tips and Precautions:

• Fresh Wheatgrass: For maximum effectiveness, use freshly juiced wheatgrass rather than pre-packaged or powdered forms.
• Check Allergies: If you have wheat or grass allergies, consult a healthcare professional before using wheatgrass.
• Temporary Relief: Wheatgrass provides temporary relief from toothache pain and should not replace professional dental care.

11. Toothache plant

The Toothache Plant, scientifically known as Acmella oleracea, is a unique and intriguing herb with a remarkable ability to relieve dental pain. Also referred to as “Electric Daisy” or “Buzz Buttons,” this plant is native to South America and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties. The Toothache Plant contains a compound called spilanthol, which produces a tingling or numbing sensation when consumed, earning its reputation as a natural remedy for toothache.

How to Use Toothache Plant for Toothache:

1. Harvest the Flower Buds: Gather fresh toothache plant flower buds, which are known for their potent spilanthol content. These flower buds are responsible for the unique tingling sensation.
2. Chew the Flower Buds: Pop a toothache plant flower bud into your mouth and chew it gently. Allow the spilanthol to permeate your mouth, and you will experience a tingling, numbing sensation.
3. Hold the Buds in Place (Optional): For a more prolonged effect, you can hold the chewed flower bud against the affected tooth and gums for a few minutes.
4. Spit Out the Buds: After experiencing the tingling sensation, you can spit out the flower buds.
5. Repeat as Needed: You can repeat this process as required whenever you encounter toothache pain.

Benefits of Toothache Plant for Toothache:

1. Natural Analgesic: Spilanthol in the Toothache Plant acts as a natural analgesic, providing temporary relief from toothache discomfort.
2. Tingling Sensation: The tingling sensation caused by spilanthol can divert attention away from the pain, offering a unique way to manage dental discomfort.
3. Herbal Remedy: The Toothache Plant offers an alternative and herbal approach to alleviate toothache, particularly for those seeking natural remedies.

Tips and Precautions:

• Moderation: While the tingling sensation is generally safe, avoid excessive consumption of toothache plant buds.
• Avoid Swallowing: Spit out the flower buds after use and avoid swallowing them to prevent ingesting an excessive amount of spilanthol.
• Temporary Relief: The Toothache Plant provides temporary relief from toothache pain and should not replace professional dental care.

FAQs

Can toothache be treated at home?

Yes, a mild toothache can be temporarily treated at home using natural remedies like clove oil, salt water rinses, and guava leaves. However, it’s essential to seek professional dental care for a long-term solution.

Is it safe to use essential oils for toothache?

Essential oils like clove oil and tea tree oil can be safe when used properly in moderation. Always dilute essential oils and use them as directed to avoid adverse reactions.

How often should I do a saltwater rinse for toothache relief?

You can do a saltwater rinse multiple times a day as needed. It helps reduce inflammation and promotes oral health.

Are these remedies suitable for everyone?

While these remedies are generally safe for most people, it’s essential to consider individual allergies or sensitivities. If you experience any adverse reactions, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.

Can I replace dental treatment with home remedies?

Home remedies can provide temporary relief but should not replace professional dental treatment. It’s crucial to visit a dentist to address the underlying cause of the toothache.

Is it normal for a toothache to go away on its own?

While mild toothaches may resolve on their own, persistent or severe toothache pain indicates an underlying issue that requires dental attention.

Conclusion

Toothache can be an unpleasant and distressing experience, but nature offers a bounty of remedies that can provide temporary relief and soothe the discomfort. From household ingredients like cloves, garlic, and vanilla extract to herbal wonders like thyme, wheatgrass, and the Toothache Plant, each natural remedy brings its unique healing properties to the table.

Clove, with its potent analgesic and antimicrobial effects, can quickly alleviate pain and fight oral infections. Garlic, a kitchen essential, showcases its powerful antimicrobial and pain-relieving capabilities to offer a sweet solution for toothache. Vanilla extract, a delightful flavoring agent, doubles as a calming and soothing remedy for dental discomfort.

Thyme, wheatgrass, and the Toothache Plant prove that nature holds many secrets to dental well-being. Thyme’s herbal richness, wheatgrass’ nutrient-packed goodness, and the Toothache Plant’s tingling sensation all contribute to temporary toothache relief and support oral health.

Peppermint tea bags, guava leaves, hydrogen peroxide rinse, and saltwater rinses provide further natural alternatives for pain relief and bacterial control. These simple and accessible remedies can play a part in easing dental pain until professional dental care is sought.

While these natural remedies can offer temporary relief, they should not replace the importance of regular dental check-ups and proper oral hygiene practices. If toothache persists or worsens, it is crucial to consult a dentist to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.

Embrace the gifts that nature has provided to help manage toothache discomfort and promote overall oral health. By combining natural remedies with professional dental care, you can pave the way for a brighter, pain-free smile. Remember, when it comes to dental health, a harmonious blend of nature’s touch and expert care is the key to maintaining a healthy and happy smile for years to come.

Image Credit: Photo by Andrea Piacquadio from pexels.com