Help Me Doctor: Unbearable Toothache! What To Do At Home

These are the 10 home remedies that you can administer to help alleviate your unbearable toothache:

• Warm Salt Water Rinse
• Clove Oil
• Hydrogen Peroxide
• Peppermint Tea
• Crushed Garlic and Salt
• Ginger Paste
• Vanilla Extract
• Onion
• Baking Soda
• Cold Compress

Warm Saline/ Salt Water Rinse

Saltwater rinses can help relieve toothaches in several ways:

• Reduces Inflammation: Salt water can help reduce inflammation in the affected area, alleviating pain and swelling.
• Cleans the Mouth: Rinsing with salt water helps clean the mouth by removing debris, food particles, and bacteria contributing to the toothache.
• Promotes Healing: Saltwater promotes a healthy pH balance in the mouth, which can speed up the healing process of any sores or infections.
• Soothes Sore Gums: The warm water can be soothing, while the salt can act as a mild antiseptic.
• Inhibits Bacterial Growth: The salt creates an environment that is less hospitable to bacteria, which can help prevent infection and further pain.

To prepare a salt water rinse, mix about half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and have the child swish it around in their mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out. This can be repeated several times a day for relief.

Clove Oil

Clove oil can help relieve toothache through several mechanisms:

• Natural Anesthetic: Clove oil’s most abundant ingredient is eugenol, which acts as a natural anesthetic, providing a numbing effect that can help reduce pain.
• Anti-inflammatory Properties: Eugenol also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and irritation around the affected tooth.
• Antibacterial Effects: Clove oil has strong antibacterial properties that can help kill bacteria in the mouth, reducing the risk of infection and further pain.
• Antioxidant Properties: The antioxidants in clove oil can help protect tissues from oxidative stress and promote healing.

To use clove oil for toothache relief, soak a cotton ball in a few drops of clove oil and apply it directly to the affected tooth and surrounding gum area. Leave it in place for a few minutes, then remove it. This can be done several times a day as needed. Alternatively, you can mix a few drops of clove oil with a carrier oil, like olive or coconut oil, and apply it to the sore area.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide can help relieve toothache through the following mechanisms:

• Antibacterial Properties: Hydrogen peroxide is an effective antibacterial agent that can help eliminate bacteria causing infection or contributing to the pain felt by your child.
• Reduces Plaque: Since hydrogen peroxide is an effective antibacterial agent, it also reduces plaque which essentially is a clump of different pathogens that thrives in your child’s mouth. It can help reduce plaque buildup around the teeth and gums, which can be a source of pain and inflammation.
• Helps Heal Gums: Hydrogen peroxide can promote the healing of inflamed or infected gums, which may alleviate pain.
• Cleans Wounds: If there are any cuts or sores in the mouth, hydrogen peroxide can help clean these areas, reducing the risk of infection and promoting faster healing.

To use hydrogen peroxide as a rinse, dilute it with an equal amount of water (e.g., mix one part 3% hydrogen peroxide with one part water). Have the child swish the solution in their mouth for about 30 seconds, then spit it out. It is important not to swallow the solution. This can be done a few times a day to help relieve toothache symptoms.

Peppermint Tea

Peppermint tea bags can help relieve toothache in several ways:

• Numbing Effect: Peppermint contains menthol, which has a natural numbing effect that can help reduce the sensation of pain.
• Anti-inflammatory Properties: The anti-inflammatory properties of peppermint can help reduce swelling and inflammation around the affected tooth.
• Antibacterial Effects: Peppermint has antibacterial properties that can help fight bacteria in the mouth, reducing the risk of infection and further pain.
• Cooling Sensation: The cooling sensation from peppermint can provide temporary relief and comfort to the sore area.

To use, steep a peppermint tea bag in hot water for a few minutes, let it cool to a comfortable temperature, then place it on the affected tooth or gum area for about 20 minutes. This method can be repeated several times a day for temporary relief. Alternatively, a cooled, used peppermint tea bag can also be applied directly to the sore area for similar benefits.

Crushed Garlic and Salt

Garlic can help relieve toothache in several ways:

• Natural Antibiotic: Garlic contains allicin, a compound with potent antibacterial properties that can help fight the bacteria causing the toothache.
• Pain Relief: The antimicrobial effects of garlic can reduce infection, which in turn can help alleviate pain.
• Anti-inflammatory Properties: Garlic can help reduce inflammation in the affected area, which can lessen swelling and discomfort.
• Antioxidant Properties: The antioxidants in garlic can promote overall oral health and assist in healing.

To use garlic for toothache relief, crush a garlic clove to release its juices and mix it with a pinch of salt. Apply the mixture directly to the affected tooth and surrounding gums. Alternatively, you can chew a raw garlic clove slowly on the side of the mouth where the pain is located. This can be done a few times a day as needed for relief.

Ginger Paste

Ginger paste can help relieve toothache through several mechanisms:

• Anti-inflammatory Properties: Ginger contains compounds like gingerol, which have strong anti-inflammatory effects that can help reduce swelling and pain in the affected area.
• Antibacterial Effects: The antibacterial properties of ginger can help fight the bacteria causing the toothache, reducing infection and further pain.
• Antioxidant Properties: Ginger’s antioxidants can help protect oral tissues from oxidative stress and promote healing.
• Pain Relief: The natural compounds in ginger can provide a mild numbing effect, helping to alleviate pain.

To use ginger paste for toothache relief, first crush fresh ginger root or mix ginger powder with a small amount of water to create a paste. Apply this paste directly to the affected tooth and surrounding gums, and leave it in place for a few minutes to let the ginger work. Afterward, rinse your mouth with warm water to complete the process. This method can be repeated several times a day as needed for relief.

Vanilla Extract

Vanilla can help relieve toothache through several mechanisms:

• Numbing Effect: Vanilla extract contains a small amount of alcohol, which can provide a numbing effect on the affected area, helping to reduce pain.
• Antioxidant Properties: The antioxidants in vanilla extract can help promote healing and protect tissues from further damage.
• Calming Aroma: The soothing aroma of vanilla can have a calming effect, which might help reduce the overall discomfort associated with a toothache.

To use vanilla extract for toothache relief, soak a cotton ball or cotton swab in pure vanilla extract and gently apply it to the affected tooth and surrounding gum area, holding it in place for a few minutes. This can be repeated several times a day as needed for pain relief.

Onion

Onion can help relieve toothache through several mechanisms:

• Antibacterial Properties: Onions contain sulfur compounds that have strong antibacterial properties, which can help kill bacteria causing toothache and reduce the risk of infection.
• Anti-inflammatory Effects: The anti-inflammatory compounds in onions can help reduce swelling and inflammation around the affected tooth, providing pain relief.
• Pain Relief: Onions have a natural numbing effect that can help alleviate pain in the affected area.

To use onion for toothache, chew a raw onion on the side of the mouth where the pain is located for several minutes, or place a small piece of fresh onion directly on the sore tooth and leave it for a few minutes. This can be repeated a few times a day as needed for relief.

Baking Soda

Baking soda can help relieve toothache in several ways:

• Neutralizes Acids: Baking soda helps neutralize the acids in the mouth that may contribute to tooth pain and discomfort.
• Cleanses the Mouth: It can help remove food particles and plaque, reducing irritation and promoting oral hygiene.
• Reduces Inflammation: Baking soda has mild anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe inflamed gums and reduce swelling.
• Mild Abrasive: Its gentle abrasive quality can help clean the affected area without causing further irritation.

To use baking soda for toothache relief, mix a small amount of baking soda with water to create a paste, then apply it to the affected tooth and gums. Alternatively, you can rinse your mouth with a solution of baking soda and water. This method can be used a few times a day for temporary relief.

Cold Compress

A cold compress can relieve toothache through several mechanisms:

• Reduces Swelling: The cold temperature helps constrict blood vessels and reduce inflammation around the affected area, which can alleviate swelling and pain.
• Numbs the Pain: The cold can provide a numbing effect on the affected area, temporarily reducing the sensation of pain.
• Soothes the Area: Applying a cold compress can soothe the area and provide comfort, helping to manage discomfort.

To use a cold compress for a toothache, wrap ice or a cold pack in a cloth and gently apply it to the outside of the child’s cheek near the sore area. Keep it on for 15-20 minutes, then remove it for at least 20 minutes before reapplying if needed. This method can be repeated a few times a day as necessary for relief.

How can I stop my child’s tooth pain fast at home?

The most immediate way to ease your child’s tooth pain fast at home is to give them pain relievers. Pain relievers for toothaches in children, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), typically begin to take effect within 30 to 60 minutes after administration. The exact time can vary depending on factors like the child’s metabolism, the severity of the pain, and whether the medication is taken with food.

• Acetaminophen: Usually starts working within 30 minutes, with peak effects occurring around 1 to 2 hours.
• Ibuprofen: Generally begins to relieve pain within 30 to 60 minutes, with peak effects occurring around 1 to 2 hours.

If you want to use other natural at-home remedies, you can always try out the list that we have stated above to relieve your child’s pain. 

What relieves toothache pain fast?

For quick relief from toothache pain, consider these options:

1. Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress or ice pack to the outside of the cheek near the painful area can reduce swelling and numb the pain, providing immediate relief.
2. Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can help manage pain and inflammation. They typically start to work within 30 to 60 minutes.
3. Clove Oil: Applying a small amount of clove oil to the affected area can provide rapid pain relief due to its numbing and antibacterial properties.
4. Salt Water Rinse: Rinsing the mouth with warm salt water can help reduce inflammation and clean the area, offering temporary relief.
5. Vanilla Extract: Applying a small amount of vanilla extract to the affected tooth can help numb the pain and soothe the area.

These methods provide temporary relief, so it’s important to consult a dentist to address the underlying cause of the toothache.

What painkiller can I give my child for tooth?

For a child’s toothache, you can give the following over-the-counter pain relievers, following the dosing instructions carefully:

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Generally recommended for children to relieve pain and reduce fever. Make sure to use the pediatric formulation and follow the dosing instructions based on your child’s weight and age.
• Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin): Effective for reducing pain and inflammation. However, keep in mind that the use of ibuprofen is prohibited for children under 13 years old. 

Always check the label for proper dosing and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any questions or if the pain persists. Avoid giving aspirin to children due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition.

Is it OK to give a child ibuprofen?

Yes, it is generally safe to give a child ibuprofen for pain relief, including toothaches, as long as you follow the recommended dosage guidelines. Ibuprofen is effective in reducing pain and inflammation. However, ensure you:

• Use the Pediatric Formulation: Always use the child-specific (pediatric) version of ibuprofen.
• Follow Dosage Instructions: Administer the correct dosage based on the child’s weight and age, as indicated on the label or by a healthcare provider.
• Monitor for Side Effects: Watch for any adverse effects, such as stomach upset or allergic reactions, and consult a healthcare provider if these occur.

Avoid giving ibuprofen to children under 6 months old unless directed by a healthcare provider. If the toothache persists or worsens, it’s important to consult a dentist or healthcare provider for a proper evaluation and treatment plan.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, to manage toothache effectively at home, you can use methods like applying a cold compress to reduce swelling, administering over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, and using remedies like clove oil, vanilla extract, or a warm salt water rinse for temporary relief. For children, always follow dosage instructions carefully and choose pediatric formulations. In general, if the pain persists, you should consult a dentist if the pain persists or worsens to address the underlying cause and ensure appropriate treatment.