When you’ve got a severe toothache, your dentist is the best remedy. But if you find yourself with a little time before your emergency appointment and need some fast relief at home, here are a few tried-and-true methods that could help.
Rinse With Saltwater
If you are experiencing tooth pain, saltwater can help. It acts as both a natural disinfectant as well as a gentle way to help loosen food particles and debris from your teeth if they hurt too much or you’ve been advised to not brush. It can even help reduce inflammation. Just add about a half teaspoon of salt to a cup of warm water and swish it around in your mouth like mouthwash. Spit, and then rinse with warm or room-temperature plain water if you prefer.
Tea Bags
Tea bags can be used as a warm or cold compress after brewing. They can be applied directly to the injured tooth. To warm them, just brew a cup of tea as usual and allow the bag to cool a bit before putting it in your mouth. For a cold compress, take the bag out of the water and place it in the freezer for about five minutes. Be sure to rinse your mouth well after using this treatment, as tea can easily stain your teeth.
Sleeping Upright
When you sleep flat, you put pressure on your head that could make your toothache pain hurt even worse. To alleviate some of this pain, sleep with your head elevated. Hopefully this will help lessen some of the discomfort in your tooth.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract is an all-natural numbing agent. Apply it with a cotton ball or swab directly to the painful area in your mouth several times a day to get relief.
Garlic
In addition to tasting delicious, garlic fights bacteria and relieves pain too! Use it as a natural remedy by applying it directly to the area. You can either chew a clove, dab it on in garlic oil form, or create a paste by mashing it and spreading it on your tooth.
Remember, if you have dental pain that lasts longer than 24 hours, it is important that you see your dentist as soon as possible. In the meantime, these home remedies can help assist you by alleviating pain without the use of medication.
About Dr. Wang
Dr. Ye Wang believes the key to ensuring her patients maintain their oral health is by treating them with kindness and respect whether they’re at home or in the dental chair. If you are suffering from a painful or dental emergency, Dr. Wang and the team at Plum Grove Family Dental are here to assist you as swiftly as possible.
To schedule an urgent appointment, please visit our website or call us today at 847-221-5860.