As explained on Fit Life, even though cavities are considered to be the most common reason behind a toothache, there are numerous other contributing factors. Some of them are gum illness, bruxism, damaged fillings, irregular bite, erupted tooth, tooth decay, etc.
A toothache is often manifested through a sharp and throbbing ache in the affected tooth, fever, headache, swelling and inflammation, and infection.
If you want to learn how to manage the pain naturally until you visit your dentist (the sooner, the better!), we have prepared a list with the 10 best methods to alleviate toothache.
10 Natural Ways to Lower Toothaches
- Clove oil
The eugenol in clove oil has the power of numbing pain, similarly to what over-the-counter painkillers do. To be able to use it, mix several drops of the oil with coconut oil and then soak a cotton ball into the mixture and apply it gently onto the painful area. When the area feels numb, remove the cotton ball and rinse the mouth with water gently.
- Ginger and cayenne
This combination will help you alleviate the pain and discomfort and it will also remove bad bacteria causing the toothache. Mix a bit of cayenne powder with ginger powder and water to get a paste-like texture. Apply it with a clean finger onto the painful tooth and leave it like that to dissolve and for the area to become numb. Rinse the mouth with water if needed.
- Ice
Did you know that toothaches can be relieved by pressing some ice on the cheek against the painful area? This will also minimize the swelling and inflammation. Before putting the ice, wrap it in a fabric or a towel and hold it for 20 minutes or before the ice begins to melt.
- Chewing gum
Before heading out to the dentist’s office, to lower the toothache, chew some gum. Opt for the ones that are sugar-free.
- Salt & water gargle
Gargling with some water and salt can help you lower the pain and inflammation, as well as the swelling. Mix some salt in a glass of water and gargle it for 30 seconds, a couple of times per day.
- Turmeric paste
Mix a bit of turmeric powder and a tbsp of coconut and peppermint oil. Brush the teeth with the paste, focusing on the painful tooth. Once you are done, spit out the toothpaste and rinse the mouth.
- Essential oils
Tea tree oil, clove oil, myrrh, and peppermint can help you fight off the bad bacteria causing the toothache and will also avert further damage. When it comes to essential oils, remember that they are best when used aromatically or topically and remember, they should not be ingested (unless otherwise instructed by a doctor or a professional)
- Acupressure
Nowadays, a lot of people use acupressure to reduce toothaches. Just press the area where the thumb and index finger meet gently for several seconds.
- Peppermint tea
This tea is abundant in antibacterial properties and it is therefore useful in relieving toothaches. Consume several cups per day for optimal effect.
- Garlic
This superfood possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory characteristics that can be useful in alleviating headaches. Crush one clove, leave it for a bit and then sprinkle some salt and chew the content with the painful tooth gently. Repeat several times per day.
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