Symptoms of toothache
Some of the most common symptoms of toothache include:
- Tooth swelling
- Sharp and constant pain
- Headache
- Fever
Even though tooth pain is usually caused by tooth cavities, other factors that can lead to toothache are:
- A damaged filling
- Tooth decay
- Gum disease
- Tooth fracture
- Abscessed tooth
- An abnormal bite
- Tooth eruption
- Repetitive motions, such as grinding teeth or chewing hard food
10 Natural toothache treatments
Nowadays, there is a variety of modern treatments for toothache. However, in the past, people used natural remedies, such as:
1. Essential oil
A 2014-study found out that essential oils are very beneficial for inhibiting plaque. Since chlorhexidine leads to tooth straining, essential oils can be used to treat chlorhexidine rinse. Moreover, essential oils possess antimicrobial properties, which fight subgingival periopathogens.
2. Peppermint tea
A 2013-study indicated that the antiseptic effects of peppermint oil can fight oral pathogens. Steep peppermint leaves for 15 – 20 minutes and consume the tea to prevent toothaches and bad breath.
3. Clove oil
Clove oil is loaded with eugenol, which possesses powerful anesthetic and antiseptic properties that kill germs and reduce gum pain. Combine a teaspoon of coconut oil and a few drops of clove oil. Then, soak a cotton ball in the mixture and apply it to the painful area. Moreover, you can also chew fresh clove leaves to relieve toothache.
4. Vanilla extract
Vanilla scent can relieve anxiety related to toothache. Also, alcohol in vanilla can soothe the pain. Dab vanilla extract on your finger and apply it to the painful area twice a day.
5. Turmeric paste
Mix a tablespoon of coconut oil, a few drops of peppermint oil, and a teaspoon of turmeric powder. Apply the paste and brush your teeth for a few minutes. Rinse it with cold water.
Turmeric contains antibacterial and antiviral properties, which can prevent bad breath, tooth irritations, tooth stains, and gum redness.
6. Ginger and cayenne paste
Mix equal parts of cayenne and ginger. Add some water and make a paste. Soak a cotton ball in it and apply it to the affected areas. Let it stay for some time to prevent swelling, toothache, bleeding, and infections.
7. Salt water gargle
In a cup of boiling water, add 1 teaspoon of salt. Let it cool and then gargle it for half a minute. It will help soothe tooth pain and infections, reduce swelling, and eliminate debris.
8. Myrrh
Due to its astringent properties, myrrh can help reduce inflammation and eliminate bacteria. In 2 cups of water, add a teaspoon of myrrh. Simmer it for a few minutes and let it cool. Consume it several times a day.
9. Raw garlic
Garlic prevents viruses, fungi, and bacteria. Crush a garlic clove and let it stay for a few minutes so that its compounds are activated. Then, add a pinch of salt and apply it to the affected area. Moreover, you can also chew garlic cloves to relieve toothache.
10. Ice
Apply cold compress or ice on the cheek to treat toothache and swelling.