A severe toothache can stop you in your tracks. Whether it’s a sharp, throbbing, or constant pain, it can make eating, sleeping, and even thinking difficult. While seeing a dentist is the only way to truly treat the root cause, there are a few safe and effective home remedies you can try to temporarily relieve pain until your appointment. Here are 5 home remedies for a severe toothache that may help ease discomfort and calm inflammation.
1. Rinse with Warm Saltwater
Saltwater is one of the oldest and most reliable remedies for tooth pain. It acts as a natural disinfectant, helps reduce inflammation, and can loosen food particles stuck between teeth.
To make a saltwater rinse, mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and swish it around your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out. Repeat this several times a day.
This rinse can also help soothe irritated gums and prevent bacteria from spreading. However, don’t swallow the saltwater—it’s meant to clean, not to drink.
2. Apply a Cold Compress
If your toothache is accompanied by swelling, a cold compress can work wonders. The cold helps constrict blood vessels, which reduces inflammation and numbs the area, offering temporary relief from intense pain.
Wrap a few ice cubes in a thin cloth or use a store-bought ice pack. Hold it against the outside of your cheek for 15 to 20 minutes at a time. You can repeat this every few hours as needed.
Cold compresses are especially helpful if your toothache is due to trauma, such as a cracked or knocked tooth.
3. Use an Over-the-Counter Pain Reliever
While not technically a “home remedy,” over-the-counter medications can provide much-needed relief when tooth pain becomes unbearable. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are both effective for easing pain and reducing inflammation.
Always follow the recommended dosage instructions and never place painkillers directly on your gums or tooth—this can burn the tissue and make things worse. If you have ongoing or severe pain that doesn’t improve after a few days, it’s a clear sign to call your dentist.
4. Try a Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse
A hydrogen peroxide rinse can help reduce bacteria, soothe sore gums, and relieve pain associated with infection. Mix equal parts of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide and water, swish it around your mouth for about 30 seconds, and then spit it out—do not swallow.
This remedy can help control plaque and fight infection-causing bacteria temporarily, but it’s not a replacement for professional dental care.
5. Clove Oil for Natural Numbing
Clove oil is a time-tested natural remedy for toothache. It contains eugenol, a natural anesthetic and antibacterial compound that helps numb pain and fight infection.
To use, dip a cotton ball in a few drops of clove oil (you can mix it with a carrier oil like olive oil) and gently apply it to the affected area. You can also make a rinse by adding a drop of clove oil to a glass of warm water and swishing it gently.
If your pain lasts longer than two days, is severe, or is accompanied by fever, swelling, or a bad taste in your mouth, contact your dentist immediately. In the meantime, these simple remedies can help you stay comfortable and protect your oral health until you get the expert care your smile needs.
About the Practice
Are you experiencing a dental emergency? At Northbrook Dental Group, your comfort is our top priority – that’s why we offer same-day appointments for those with an urgent situation. Our family dental practice – headed up by Drs. James and Justin Woodruff – welcomes all ages. Furthermore, our state-of-the-art dental technology ensures the very best care you can get. If you’re in pain, don’t delay – schedule an appointment online or by calling us at (847) 272-0049.