After a long day of attending meetings, racing against deadlines, and sitting in traffic, you’ve finally made it home. Before starting your nightly routine, you throw together one of your favorite meals to unwind. Within the hour, you are sitting down at your table with a delicious glass of wine and an aroma that is slowly filling your entire home. It’s nearly picturesque, until you take your first bite and feel a sudden surge of pain stemming from your mouth.
Whether it is a dull, consistent discomfort or sharp, stabbing pain, a toothache is designed to signal that something is wrong. Instead of ignoring it, schedule an urgent appointment with your dentist and use the below at-home remedies in the meantime!
#1. Combine Ginger and Cayenne into a Paste
Ginger and cayenne are two heat-packing ingredients that are known for their ability to take a standard dish to the next level. However, did you know that they are also natural painkillers? To use this powerful concoction, combine equal parts of the two spices with enough water to make a paste. From there, place a small cotton ball into the mixture and put it against your tooth (carefully avoiding your gums and tongue).
#2. Swish with Saltwater
Salt and water are two kitchen staples that are a pain-relieving, swelling-reducing mouthwash when combined. By simply rinsing with a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water, you can effectively remove stubborn debris and food particles while simultaneously reducing inflammation. Plus, you can use this combination as often as needed!
#3. Make a Cup of Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea is often associated with the holidays and cozy nights by the fire, but this classic scent also has some numbing power. To quell tooth pain and reduce swelling, steep 1 teaspoon of dried peppermint leaves in a cup of boiling water for 20 minutes. From there, vigorously swish the tea around in your mouth before spitting it out.
#4. Rinse with Hydrogen Peroxide
3% hydrogen peroxide is a strong solution that can kill bacteria, relieve discomfort, and combat the unpleasant taste that accompanies an infection. However, it is important to only rinse with this powerful agent and use it as simply a short-term solution until you can visit your dentist.
#5. Apply a Cold Compress
When it comes to swollen, irritated injuries, icing it can do wonders! By wrapping a small bag of ice cubes in a clean cloth and applying it to the outside of your cheek, you can effectively numb the nerves and relieve inflammation. Apply the cold compress for 15 minutes at a time until you experience relief.
Toothaches can be painful and inconvenient, but they serve an important role in signaling that something isn’t right with your teeth or gums. To ensure your oral health remains in pristine condition, visit your dentist as soon as the first symptoms arise!
About the Author
After earning her Bachelor of Dental Surgery from MP Dental College, Dr. Deval Parmar moved to the United States and completed her Doctor of Dental Surgery. Since then, she has undergone advanced training in dental implants, Invisalign, and laser dentistry! Plus, Dr. Parmar is an active member of multiple reputable organizations, including the American Dental Association. If you have a toothache or dental emergency, visit her website or give her a call at 972-972-4646.