Toothache pain is common, but can also be extremely uncomfortable. If you are suffering from toothache pain and need fast relief, some home remedies might be able to help. This article shows you 15 tested methods for relieving pain from toothaches to help you manage them.
Toothaches have several causes. Sometimes, it's something as simple as a food particle stuck between teeth or a cavity. Other times, it indicates a serious condition like an abscessed tooth or gum disease.
Whatever the cause of your toothache, it definitely isn't something you want to out up with if you don't have to.
In this article, we'll show you 15 different home remedies to ease or eliminate the pain from a toothache.
Common Symptoms Of Toothache
Since toothaches have numerous different causes, they also have varying symptoms depending on what exactly your underlying condition is.
Here are some of the most common toothache symptoms:
Tooth Pain That May Be Sharp, Throbbing, Or Constant
Of course, pain is the primary symptom of a toothache, affecting more than 40% of adults each year. The intensity and type of pain vary depending on the cause, but it's usually a sharp or throbbing sensation that may linger for hours or days.
Sharp pain typically occurs when the tooth's nerve endings are exposed due to a cavity, a crack, or a broken tooth. This type of pain is often triggered by consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks. Biting down on the affected tooth can also cause sharp pain, making it difficult to chew or eat comfortably.
Throbbing pain, on the other hand, is usually a sign of inflammation. It may result from an infection, an abscess, or gum disease. Throbbing pain can be constant or intermittent, and it tends to worsen when you lie down or bend over. It may also radiate to your jaw, ear, or head, making it difficult to pinpoint the exact location of the pain.
Constant pain is often a more serious symptom, indicating a severe infection or an abscess that has spread to the surrounding tissues. If you experience constant tooth pain, seeing a dentist as soon as possible is essential to prevent further complications.
Swelling Around The Tooth
Swelling around the tooth is another common toothache symptom, and it can indicate an underlying infection, an abscess, or inflammation.
The swelling may involve gum tissue surrounding the affected tooth. Or, in more severe cases, the cheek or face. This occurs because the body's immune system responds to the presence of bacteria, leading to increased blood flow and accumulation of fluid in the affected area.
Swelling around the tooth may also cause the area to feel warm and tender to the touch. Sometimes, it may be severe enough to interfere with your ability to open your mouth or speak comfortably.
If the swelling is accompanied by severe pain, fever, or difficulty breathing or swallowing, seek emergency dental care, as these could be signs of a more serious issue.
Fever Or Headache
Fever or headache can sometimes accompany a toothache, mainly when an infection, an abscess, or advanced gum disease causes the toothache. These symptoms may indicate that your body is fighting off the infection, and they typically point to a more severe dental issue that requires prompt attention.
A fever is a natural immune response to an infection, and it can cause your body temperature to rise above its normal range.
A mild fever may be tolerable, but a high fever can cause additional symptoms, such as chills, sweating, fatigue, and body aches. It's essential to monitor your fever and consult a dentist or healthcare professional if it persists or worsens.
Headaches associated with toothaches are usually the result of referred pain, where pain from the tooth or jaw radiates to other areas of the head. This can make it difficult to pinpoint the source of the discomfort.
The headache may be dull and throbbing or sharp and intense, depending on the underlying cause. In some cases, it may be tension triggered by muscle strain and stress from clenching your jaw.
Foul-Tasting Drainage From The Infected Tooth
Foul-tasting drainage or pus will look like a thick fluid containing dead tissue, bacteria, and white blood cells, which the body produces in response to the infection.
The pus can escape from the infected area through a small opening called a fistula, which is a channel that forms between the infection site and the oral cavity.
The sour taste in your mouth is from the pus and bacteria. It can also cause bad breath or a persistent unpleasant taste in your mouth, which routine brushing or using mouthwash won't alleviate.
The drainage site may be visible in some cases as a small, whitish or yellowish bump on the gum near the infected tooth.
A Bad Odor From The Mouth.
Bad breath is one of the first symptoms of just about any dental disorder, including tooth decay, gum disease, and most infections. It originates from bacteria accumulating in the oral cavity and releasing bad-smelling substances.
The odor may be mild at first but can become more intense if you don't practice good oral hygiene or receive treatment for your toothache.
Infections like abscesses also contribute to bad breath, as they produce foul-smelling pus.
If you notice a persistent bad odor from your mouth, consult with a dentist to identify the cause and receive appropriate treatment. Depending on the underlying issue, treatment may involve dental cleanings, fillings, root canal therapy, gum disease treatment, or tooth extraction.
Occasionally, your dentist may recommend additional strategies or products to help manage bad breath, such as tongue scrapers, specialized mouthwashes, or breath fresheners.
Possible Causes Of Toothache
In some cases, you'll know the root cause of your toothache immediately. In others, it may be elusive and take a dental consultation to identify.
Let's take a look at the most common causes of toothaches.
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay—also known as dental caries or cavities—is one of the most common causes of toothache. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that about 26% of people have untreated tooth decay—the first sign of which is a toothache.
It occurs when the enamel and dentin layers of the tooth are damaged by acids produced by bacteria in the mouth. These acids are formed when bacteria break down the sugars and starches left on your teeth from food debris.
Over time, the acids gradually erode the tooth's protective enamel layer, exposing the softer dentin beneath. Once the dentin is compromised, the tooth becomes more sensitive and prone to pain.
If left untreated, the decay can progress to the pulp chamber, which houses the tooth's blood vessels and nerves, leading to severe toothache and an increased risk of oral infection.
Poor oral hygiene, frequent consumption of sugary or acidic foods and drinks, and inadequate fluoride exposure are some of the factors that contribute to tooth decay.
Regular dental check-ups, cleanings, regular and proper brushing and flossing, and a balanced diet can help prevent tooth decay and toothache.
Abscessed Tooth
A tooth abscess is a painful infection that occurs at the root of a tooth or between the tooth and gum. It is typically caused by one of the following underlying issues:
- Untreated tooth decay
- Gum disease
- Cracked tooth left exposed for too long
- A foreign object lodged in the gum
- A dental crown that doesn't fit properly
Essentially, anything that allows bacteria to enter the pulp and cause infection can cause a tooth abscess—the results of which are usually severe toothache, swelling, and/or fever.
If ignored, an abscessed tooth can spread to surrounding tissues and parts of the body, posing a potentially serious risk to your overall health.
Treatment for a tooth abscess may include draining the infection, antibiotics to kill the bacteria, and a root canal procedure to save the affected tooth. If the infection spreads to a deeper layer of the tooth, extraction may be necessary if it cannot be saved.
Tooth Fracture (Broken Tooth)
A cracked or broken tooth can also cause toothache, as it exposes the sensitive nerve endings within the tooth's dentin and pulp layers. This type of tooth pain is often triggered by biting down on hard foods, grinding your teeth, or suffering a traumatic facial injury.
The pain may be sharp and sudden, and it can worsen when you chew or expose the tooth to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli.
Treatment for a cracked or broken tooth depends on the severity and location of the damage. In some cases, a dental crown, filling, or bonding may be sufficient to repair the tooth and alleviate the pain. A root canal or tooth extraction may be necessary in cases where the root is exposed or the fracture is severe.
A Damaged Filling
A damaged dental filling can expose the sensitive inner layers of the tooth to bacteria, food debris, and temperature changes.
Fillings can become damaged or dislodged over time due to natural wear and tear, biting down on hard objects, or tooth decay forming around the filling's edges. Since they are only meant to last about ten years, failure to monitor them can lead to pain and other problems.
Treatment for a damaged filling depends on the severity of the damage. In some cases, your dentist may be able to repair or replace the filling in order to protect the tooth from further damage. A root canal or extraction may be necessary if decay has spread to the nerve and surrounding tissues.
Repetitive Motions
Repetitive motions such as myofunctional habits (thumb-sucking, tongue thrusting, etc.), bruxism (teeth grinding), or clenching your jaw can cause toothache. These motions put stress on the teeth and cause them to chip, crack, or become dislodged over time.
Treatment for this type of pain usually involves wearing a nightguard while you sleep, avoiding hard foods and drinks, and quitting any bad oral habits. If you cause permanent damage to your bite, dental restorations or braces will also be necessary.
Infected Gums
Gum infection, also known as gingivitis or periodontitis in more severe cases, occurs when plaque and bacteria accumulate on the teeth and under the gumline, causing inflammation, redness, and bleeding. If left untreated, infected gums can lead to tooth pain, gum recession, bone loss, and eventually tooth loss.
A toothache caused by infected gums is often accompanied by tenderness, swelling, and a persistent bad taste or odor in the mouth. In some cases, the infection may form a pus-filled pocket called an abscess, which can exacerbate the pain and swelling.
Eruption
Tooth eruption (i.e., the process of a new tooth emerging through the gum line) can also cause toothache. This is particularly common in children during the teething phase, as well as in older children and adults when wisdom teeth—or third molars—begin to erupt.
During the eruption process, the pressure of the emerging tooth against the surrounding gum tissue and other teeth can cause pain, swelling, and discomfort. Additionally, the gum tissue around the erupting tooth may become inflamed, red, and tender to the touch.
For children experiencing pain during teething, the following home remedies may provide relief:
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Cold teething rings or toys: Chewing on a cold, soft teething ring or toy can help alleviate the pressure and discomfort caused by tooth eruption.
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Cold or frozen foods: Offering cold or frozen fruits, vegetables, or yogurt in a mesh feeder can help soothe sore gums.
- Gentle gum massage: Gently massaging the affected area with a clean finger or a soft, damp cloth can temporarily relieve teething pain.
For older children and adults experiencing pain from erupting wisdom teeth, over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may help alleviate the discomfort. In the end, surgery is usually the recommended procedure.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Toothache caused by teeth grinding can manifest as a dull, persistent ache, increased tooth sensitivity, or pain in the jaw, face, or ear. Over time, bruxism can also result in tooth enamel wear, fractures, and damage to dental restorations such as fillings or crowns.
Some common factors contributing to teeth grinding include stress, anxiety, misaligned teeth, and certain sleep disorders. To address toothache caused by bruxism, it's crucial to identify and address the underlying cause. Possible treatments and interventions include:
- Stress management
- Behavioral therapy
- Dental appliances
- Orthodontic treatment
- Sleep disorder management
- Dental restorations
15 Natural Remedies For Toothaches And Pain
You've probably seen TV commercials and social media ads for different toothache remedies and over-the-counter treatments. The reality is that most of these are expensive and still only offer temporary relief.
If you don't want to break the bank or take a trip to the store, these 15 remedies are definitely worth a shot. Some of them work even better than commercial treatments.
1. Cold Compress
A cold compress is a simple and effective home remedy for toothache. The cold temperature can help to numb the affected area, reducing pain and inflammation. This is particularly helpful for toothaches caused by swelling, trauma, or an abscess.
To use a cold compress, wrap ice or a bag of frozen vegetables in a thin towel or cloth. Hold the compress against the outside of your cheek, near the affected tooth, for about 15-20 minutes. Repeat this process every few hours as needed for pain relief.
Remember not to apply ice directly to your skin or the affected tooth, as this can cause damage or increase sensitivity. If you have any concerns about using a cold compress, consult your dentist for guidance.
2. Pain Medications
Over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen, aspirin, or acetaminophen, can temporarily relieve toothache pain. These medications—medically referred to as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)—block the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals that cause inflammation and pain. By reducing inflammation, they can help alleviate the discomfort associated with toothaches.
When using pain medications, always follow the dosing instructions on the package and avoid taking more than the recommended dose. If you're taking other medications or have a medical condition, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using pain relievers to ensure their safety.
It's important to note that while over-the-counter pain medications can provide temporary relief, they do not address the underlying cause of the toothache.
3. Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a common household antiseptic that can help alleviate toothache pain, particularly when the cause is related to minor gum infections or irritation. It works as a powerful disinfectant, killing bacteria and germs that contribute to inflammation, swelling, and pain.
To use hydrogen peroxide as a toothache remedy, create a rinse by mixing equal parts of 3% hydrogen peroxide and water. Swish the solution in your mouth for 30 seconds, focusing on the area around the affected tooth. Spit out the mixture (do not swallow!) and rinse your mouth thoroughly with water.
You can repeat this process up to four times per day as needed for pain relief.
4. Salt Water Rinse
A saltwater rinse is a natural and cost-effective remedy for toothache pain. Salt has natural antibacterial properties that can help to disinfect the mouth, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.
In addition, rinsing with warm salt water can help to loosen trapped food particles and debris, which may be causing irritation and discomfort.
To prepare a saltwater rinse, dissolve half a teaspoon of table salt in a regular-sized glass of warm water. Swish the solution in your mouth for about 30 seconds, focusing on the area around the affected tooth. Spit out the mixture and rinse your mouth with clean water.
Since salt water is harmless, you can repeat this process as many times daily as needed. Just remember not to swallow too much salt water.
5. Clove Oil
Clove oil is a popular natural remedy for toothache pain due to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. The active ingredient in clove oil (eugenol) has been used for centuries as a natural anesthetic and antiseptic, helping to numb the affected area and reduce pain.
To use clove oil for toothache relief, soak a cotton ball or swab in a small amount of the oil, then gently dab it onto the affected tooth and surrounding gum tissue. Be careful not to apply too much oil or swallow it, as it occasionally irritates or burns your mouth.
If you don't have it on hand, you can also try using ground cloves. Mix a small amount of ground cloves with water to form a paste, then apply the paste directly to the affected tooth and surrounding gum area.
6. Vanilla Extract
The alcohol content in vanilla extract acts as a numbing agent and can sometimes alleviate toothache pain. It also contains antibacterial properties that may help reduce inflammation and soothe the affected area.
To use this remedy, dab a cotton swab in pure vanilla extract, then apply it directly to the affected tooth or gum tissue. Hold the swab in place for about five minutes before rinsing your mouth with cool water.
7. Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea is a soothing home remedy for toothache pain, thanks to its natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. The menthol found in peppermint can help numb the affected area, providing temporary relief from pain and discomfort.
Research also shows that peppermint contains antibacterial compounds, which combat the actual bacteria causing tooth pain.
For toothache relief, prepare a cup of tea using a peppermint tea bag and hot water. Allow the tea to steep for a few minutes, then remove the tea bag and let it cool until it's comfortable to touch. Gently press the cooled tea bag against the affected tooth and surrounding gum area for several minutes.
8. Garlic
Garlic has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various ailments, including toothache pain. The science behind its effectiveness lies in its active compound called allicin, which possesses potent antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. These qualities can help fight off the bacteria responsible for dental infections, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain.
When garlic is crushed or chopped, it releases the enzyme alliinase, which converts alliin into allicin, the active compound responsible for its medicinal benefits.
Allicin can inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, including those causing dental infections, tooth decay, and gum disease, thereby helping to relieve toothache pain.
To successfully relieve your pain, all you have to do is chew on a garlic clove for several minutes until the juice is released. Alternatively, mix one or two crushed garlic cloves with some table salt and apply the paste directly to the affected area.
9. Guava Leaves
Guava leaves have long been utilized in traditional medicine for their natural healing properties, including the relief of toothache pain. The therapeutic effects of guava leaves can be attributed to their rich content of flavonoids, tannins, and other bioactive compounds, which exhibit anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and analgesic properties.
These bioactive compounds in guava leaves can help to combat the bacteria responsible for dental infections, alleviate inflammation, and reduce pain associated with toothaches.
Guava leaves also contain quercetin, a flavonoid known for its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can further contribute to their toothache-relieving benefits.
Since crushing them releases their beneficial compounds, you can chew on a few guava leaves or mash them into a paste and apply it directly to the affected area.
10. Wheatgrass
Wheatgrass contains numerous vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, as well as chlorophyll, which has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and analgesic properties.
The chlorophyll in wheatgrass can help to neutralize the harmful bacteria responsible for dental infections, tooth decay, and gum disease. And its anti-inflammatory properties can alleviate inflammation and swelling associated with toothaches, while the analgesic effects can help to reduce pain.
11. Thyme
The primary active compound in thyme, thymol, boasts potent antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties that can help to alleviate toothache symptoms.
Thymol can help to combat the bacteria responsible for dental infections, tooth decay, and gum disease, while its anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce inflammation and swelling associated with toothaches.
You can also use thyme to numb your mouth, as its analgesic effects can help to reduce the pain associated with toothaches.
12. Toothache Plant
Toothache plant (Acmella oleracea), also known as Spilanthes, is a traditional herbal remedy known for its pain-relieving properties, particularly in the context of dental pain.
Its pain-relieving effects are due to its active compound, spilanthol, which is known to possess anti-inflammatory and analgesic qualities.
Spilanthol helps to reduce inflammation and swelling associated with toothaches while numbing the area to help alleviate pain.
13. Neem Or Margosa Bark
You probably haven't heard of neem or margosa bark if you're not from India, but it's one of the oldest and most effective toothache remedies around.
These two plants have been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine, and they reduce inflammation and inhibit bacterial growth that cause dental infections, tooth decay, and gum disease.
14. Asafoetida
Asafoetida is a herb native to India and Iran. Its pungent smell and flavor make it an acquired taste, but it can help to reduce dental pain when used as a remedy.
Its active compound, ferulic acid, has antiseptic properties that can help to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and ward off infections.
15. Baking Soda
Baking soda is one of the most common household items, and we're willing to bet you have it in your pantry right now.
It is also among the best for teeth whitening, stain removal, and several other dental-related activities.
One of its lesser-known benefits is its ability to reduce the pain associated with toothaches, thanks to its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Baking soda's alkaline nature helps to neutralize the acidity in your mouth that can cause cavities and lead to dental infections, while its anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce swelling and pain.
When To Call Your Dentist
While home remedies can provide temporary relief from toothache pain, they are not a substitute for professional dental care. Seeking help at the right time means you can address the underlying cause of the toothache effectively.
Here are some signs that indicate it's time to call your dentist:
- Persistent pain that lasts for more than a day or two
- Swelling or fever
- Difficulty opening your mouth or swallowing
- Bleeding gums
- Foul-tasting drainage from the affected tooth
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures that persists for more than a few seconds
- Visible damage to your teeth or gums, such as a crack or a chip.
Ignoring these signs could lead to more serious dental issues, such as infections, abscesses, or tooth loss. It's important to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible to receive a proper evaluation and treatment.
How To Prevent A Toothache
Preventive measures are always better than reactive treatments, and the same holds true for toothaches. By following a few simple steps, you can reduce your risk of experiencing a toothache.
Have Regular Dental Check-Ups.
Regular dental check-ups are crucial in preventing toothaches and other dental issues. Your dentist can catch any signs of tooth decay, gum disease, or other problems before they become more serious and cause a toothache. Dental professionals strongly advise twice-yearly check-ups.
Cut Down On Sugary Foods And Drinks.
Sugary foods and drinks erode your tooth enamel, leading to tooth decay and cavities. It's important to limit your intake of sugary foods and drinks and choose healthier options like fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
You can also limit your intake of acidic foods and drinks, as they erode tooth enamel.
Brush Twice Daily.
Brushing your teeth twice a day is essential in preventing toothaches. Brushing helps remove plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Use a fluoride toothpaste and brush for at least two minutes each time.
Use Fluoride Toothpaste.
Fluoride is a mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel and protect against tooth decay. Using a fluoride toothpaste can help prevent toothaches by strengthening your teeth and reducing your risk of developing cavities.
Flossing Daily.
Flossing daily helps remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gum line, areas that your toothbrush can't reach. Flossing can prevent toothaches by reducing your risk of developing gum disease and cavities.
Drink Enough Water.
Drinking enough water is essential in maintaining good oral health and preventing toothaches. Water helps rinse away food particles and bacteria from your mouth and keeps your saliva production at a healthy level. Saliva helps neutralize acids in your mouth and protect your teeth from decay.
Want to learn more? These are the questions our customers ask us the most.
Where Does A Toothache Hurt?
Toothaches can cause pain in various areas of the mouth, including the affected tooth, surrounding gum tissue, and even the jaw and ear on the affected side. Most of the time, the pain will be localized to the affected tooth. It is usually only when a toothache is due to an infection that the pain will spread to other areas.
Will Toothaches Go Away On Their Own?
In many cases, toothaches go away on their own, particularly when they are caused by sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. When they result from cavities and other dental issues, they may occur intermittently and worsen over time. A permanent or semi-permanent toothache is almost always cause for concern.
Will toothache go away with antibiotics?
If a toothache directly results from a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the condition. When antibiotics (e.g., amoxicillin) are used to treat a toothache, the pain should improve within a few days as they treat the infection. If it does not, other treatments or further evaluation may be necessary.
What is the best painkiller for toothache?
For the best, longest-lasting impact, anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and naproxen are most often recommended for toothache pain relief. NSAIDs work to reduce inflammation in the area of the tooth, thereby reducing pain. Recent data has shown that the combination of acetaminophen and ibuprofen is as effective at treating tooth pain as prescription opioids.
How long does toothache last?
Pain in your tooth can last as little as a few hours or a few days to as long as four to six weeks. The amount of time you can expect your tooth to hurt depends on several factors, including:
- The cause of the toothache
- The location and severity of the pain
- How badly the underlying nerve is affected
- Whether or not treatment is sought
- How well you care for your affected tooth
Why does tooth pain hurt more at night?
When you lie down at night, a greater amount of blood rushes to your head, putting more pressure on sensitive areas like teeth and gums. Pain receptors may also be more sensitive due to changes in body temperature and hormones throughout the night. If an infection causes a toothache, inflammation in the area can often worsen during the night, leading to increased pain levels.
Does brushing your teeth help toothache?
Brushing your teeth will not make your toothache go away. Sometimes, it might exacerbate the pain. Still, brushing can help reduce your risk of developing cavities and other oral health issues that could potentially lead to toothaches. You should absolutely not forgo brushing and flossing, even if you have a toothache.
How do I know if my toothache is serious?
There isn't a definitive way to know how serious your toothache is without visiting a dental or medical professional. That said, a sharp, stabbing pain is always cause for concern. If you experience a fever, facial swelling, or pain that lasts longer than a few days, you may have a cavity, broken or cracked tooth, or a filling or crown that needs replacement. In these cases, restorative measures are usually required.
What happens if you ignore tooth pain?
If you ignore pain from your teeth, you may be putting yourself at risk of permanent damage to the affected tooth. In some cases, an untreated toothache can lead to further dental issues including gum disease, abscesses, and even more serious infections that require medical intervention. If your pain persists or worsens over time, you must seek professional treatment as soon as possible.
How do you get rid of a toothache in 5 minutes?
You can alleviate a toothache quickly by rinsing your mouth with hydrogen peroxide, salt water, or (believe it or not) wheatgrass. You can try adding clove oil, vanilla extract, or garlic paste to the affected area for added relief. Cold compresses and ice packs work well for longer-term relief from pain and inflammation. If the pain persists beyond these home remedies or is severe, you should try a slower, more effective solution like ibuprofen.
What should you avoid when you have a toothache?
When you have a toothache, you should avoid certain foods like sweets and anything crunchy or hard. You should also avoid acidic drinks like soda, tea, and coffee. If these items are consumed in excess, they may aggravate the pain of your toothache. If possible, you should try to limit physical activity that could compromise the affected area (e.g., contact sports).
Should I put ice on a toothache?
Icing the area of your toothache can numb the nerves, easing the pain it causes. To apply a cold compress, wrap an ice pack or cold compress in a cloth and place it against the cheek that covers the affected area for no more than 15 minutes.
Can salt water make toothache worse?
Warm salt water will help your toothache by providing temporary relief. Salt water has natural anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and ease the pain. However, if you use salt water that is too hot, it could make your toothache worse by irritating the affected area. When rinsing your mouth with this solution, you should always use warm or lukewarm salt water.
How many times should I use salt water for a toothache?
Since salt water is harmless and completely natural, you can use it as often as needed to ease the pain of your toothache. You may need to rinse your mouth with salt water multiple times a day for several days to see maximum benefits.
Can stress cause toothache?
Stress has a close relationship with oral health, and it can cause underlying problems that result in a toothache. Stress-related toothaches are the result of clenching and grinding your teeth, which can cause the enamel to wear away. Over time, this leads to nerve damage and sensitivity in affected areas. Stress management can go a long way in treating both your toothache and the underlying condition, as well as your overall health.
Can toothache cause a stroke?
In extremely rare cases, the inflammation and infection around your toothache may increase the likelihood of a blood clot. Since this clot can then travel to other parts of your body, it could lead to a stroke. To reduce your risk of stroke or any other serious medical complications, visit your dentist as soon as possible if you are experiencing severe tooth pain.
Can one tooth make your whole mouth hurt?
In serious cases of toothache (e.g., severe enamel erosion, pit and fissure cavities), patients sometimes radiate pain throughout their mouths. This is because the nerves in the affected tooth can cause pain that travels to other areas, even if the initial problem is localized. To properly treat this issue, the underlying problem must first be treated.
How long does salt water take to help toothache?
Salt water usually takes around 30 seconds to begin working its magic. The pain relief is only temporary, though, so you will probably have to use it multiple times throughout the day. Fortunately, salt water is natural and harmless, so you can use it as much as you need.
Can a toothache hurt your heart?
Bacterial infections in your gums and teeth can spread to other parts of your body, including your heart. When ignored, they can affect your heart valves and cause some pain in your heart. That is why it is important to take care of your oral health and address any dental issues as soon as they arise.
What nerves cause toothache?
Toothaches are caused by irritation or inflammation of the nerves in the tooth or surrounding tissue. The most common nerve responsible for toothache pain is the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for sensation in the face and mouth.
Does drinking water help toothache?
Drinking water can help alleviate toothache pain by rinsing away food particles and bacteria from the affected area, reducing the risk of further irritation and inflammation. It's also important to stay hydrated to maintain healthy saliva production, which helps neutralize acids in the mouth and prevent tooth decay.
However, it's important to note that drinking water alone cannot treat a severe toothache caused by decay or infection. If left untreated, a toothache can become gangrenous, which means that the tissues inside the tooth die due to lack of blood flow or oxygen. This can cause intense pain, and swelling, and even lead to an abscess or systemic infection.
