It seems like the worst possible time to get a toothache. Many people are extremely limited in where and when they can leave their homes. While it may be impossible to get help right away, there are certain home remedies you could try in the meantime until you are able to see your emergency dentist. You don’t even need to visit a crowded grocery store to get the ingredients, as many of the items can be found in your own pantry.
What Remedies Can Ease My Tooth Pain?
- Clove oil: Cloves contain a chemical compound called eugenol, which is a natural anesthetic and can help numb the area and reduce pain. Use only a couple drops on a cotton ball and place it on the area of pain. It may take up to 10 minutes before the pain subsides.
- Ginger and cayenne: Mix equal parts ginger and cayenne with water to make a paste. Using a cotton ball, let the paste rest against your tooth until the pain subsides. Avoid contact with the gums and tongue.
- Saltwater: To reduce swelling, dissolve a teaspoon of salt into a cup of boiling water. When it’s cool enough, swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit it out.
- Peppermint tea: Because of its numbing effects, peppermint can be effective in reducing tooth pain. Put 1 teaspoon of dried peppermint leaves into 1 cup of boiling water. Allow it to steep for 20 minutes. When cool, swish it around your mouth.
- Black tea: The leaves in a teabag can help reduce swelling and diminish pain. Place a warm, wet teabag against the affected tooth.
- Hydrogen peroxide: If you are showing signs of an infection, such as a fever and foul taste in your mouth, swishing a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution can temporarily relieve pain. Be sure to rinse your mouth with water after spitting out the solution.
- Ice: Place an ice pack on the cheek to numb the area and reduce pain.
What Can I Do to Avoid A Dental Emergency in the Future?
No one wants to have to deal with a dental emergency, especially now. Here are a few tips to avoid a dental emergency:
- Be especially careful when eating hard and chewy foods.
- Avoid chewing on ice.
- Don’t use your teeth to open packages.
- Always use a mouthguard in physical sports.
- Schedule routine checkups! Catching problems early can help you avoid a dental emergency in the future.
Dealing with dental emergencies is never fun, especially when it means that you are in a lot of pain. Using these remedies can help you undermine the pain until you are able to receive emergency dental care and tackle the source of the problem.
About the Practice
Dr. Stephen Crovatto and Dr. Megan Edwards practice at Crovatto & Edwards Family Dentistry in Oak Park, FL. They provide a variety of dental services including same-day emergency treatment for patients on record. They work together to create an enjoyable and comfortable environment for their patients with high quality treatment. For more information, visit their website or call (904) 272-0800.