Imagine that a toothache occurs in the
middle of the night and you cannot see your dentist. You will then seek to
relieve this pain at all costs. These home remedies may be able to provide
temporary relief.
1. Cold compresses
Sometimes the toothache is accompanied by
swelling. In this case, a cold compress placed against the cheek (in 20 minute
increments, followed by 20 minutes of rest) can calm the sore area. The cold
has an anesthetic action, which can relieve dental pain; it also helps reduce
inflammation, explains Doctissimo.
A cold compress may soothe you momentarily
and allow you to fall back to sleep, but it won't solve the root of the
problem. If the pain is from decay or other dental concern, it won't improve
until you go to the dentist.
2. Clove oil
Clove oil can temporarily reduce the pain
and swelling associated with a toothache. For this home remedy, soak a cotton
ball in a few drops of clove oil. Gently wipe the cotton over your aching teeth
and gums.
Be
careful, it will ease your pain in the moment, but will not solve the
underlying problem. It also has an unpleasant taste, which can make its use
unpleasant.
3. Mouthwashes with salt water
If you have a sore tooth and swollen gums,
mouthwashing with lukewarm salt water may provide relief. Dissolve a few
teaspoons of salt in a quart of lukewarm water. Then do your mouthwash before
spitting out the mixture.
When you have a toothache, both hot and
cold water can be unpleasant. Lukewarm water, on the contrary, can provide
relief. The water will calm the pain, and the salt will reduce the swelling of
the gum tissue. As with other remedies, these effects are temporary.
4. Local analgesics against dental pain
To endure a toothache, you can take a local
pain reliever without a prescription, following the instructions in the package
leaflet. Be careful not to put it in direct contact with the affected area,
this could cause burns to the gums and accentuate the feeling of discomfort.
Pain medications can make the discomfort go
away until your dentist appointment, but like other natural remedies, they
aren't a long-term solution.
When to see your dentist
Health Insurance recommends having your
toothache quickly assessed by a dentist, so make an appointment without delay.
Dentists often have time slots available for emergencies, so you may be able to
be taken care of the same day. If your symptoms seem to indicate an abscess
(fever, swollen face, persistent tooth pain) and your dentist cannot see you,
go to the emergency room for treatment.
Prevent toothache
Toothache can have many causes, the most
common being cavities. Fortunately, there are many preventative measures you
can take to avoid them. Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft toothbrush,
which will be softer and respect your sensitive gums. Also use dental floss,
and make a regular appointment with your dentist for a check-up. Cavities can
then be detected and treated before they cause severe pain.
