We have all been victims to toothache, which seems unmanageable. In today’s blog, we will walk you through the most effective remedies for pain and swelling, when a dentist is out of reach.
Toothache can sometimes be sudden. It can cause pain and discomfort that ranges from mild to very severe. The pain may affect not only your tooth, but also your head, ear and jaw. It may be constant, throbbing, or it may come and go.
It is likely that your toothache is also accompanied by headaches, fever, and swelling. If you continue to experience severe toothache after trying the home remedies listed below head to our recently updated ‘Virtual Consultation’.
Alternatively, call our practice at 020 3974 1777.
Possible Causes of Toothache
- Misaligned Teeth or Impacted Wisdom Teeth
- Improper Brushing or Flossing
- Teeth Grinding
- Damaged Fillings or Dental Sealants
- Temperature Sensitivity
- Tooth Fractures
- Gum Disease
- Tooth Abscess
- Tooth Decay
6 Home Remedies for when you can’t get to the dentist:
- 1. Over the Counter Pain Medication
Over the counter pain medications such as Ibuprofen or Paracetamol is likely to alleviate some of the discomfort. However, be careful not to exceed the daily recommended dosage.
- 2. Applying a cold compress
Applying a bag of ice wrapped in a towel to the affected side of the face or jaw helps constrict the blood vessels, reducing pain and enabling rest and sleep.
- 3. Keeping your head elevated
Pooling blood in the head is known to worsen pain and inflammation. For some people, elevating the head with an extra pillow or two may relieve the pain enough to allow rest..
- 4. Salt-water rinse
Salt water is a natural antibacterial agent, which may reduce inflammation. This, in turn, helps protect damaged teeth from infection. Rinsing with salt water also helps remove food particles or debris stuck in the teeth or gums.
- 5. Garlic
Garlic is a common household ingredient that some people use to relieve toothache..
Allicin, the main compound in garlic, has a strong antibacterial effect that may help kill the bacteria that lead to cavities and tooth pain.
Simply chewing a clove of garlic and allowing it to sit near the tooth may help relieve pain. That said, the taste of raw garlic can be too strong for some people, so this may not be the right solution for everyone.
- 6. Peppermint tea
Swishing peppermint tea or sucking on peppermint tea bags may also help temporarily relieve toothache.
Researchers note that peppermint contains antibacterial and antioxidant compounds. Menthol, an active ingredient in peppermint, may also have a mild numbing effect on sensitive areas.
