5 Natural Solutions for Toothache Relief

In cartoons, a character with a toothache often ties a cloth bandage around their jaw and head. This imagery, though outdated, reflects an old practice of using jaw bandages to alleviate dental pain. Historians speculate this method was used to secure a poultice—a moist mixture of bread, cereal, or mashed vegetables—against the affected area. Alternatively, it might have been intended to warm the cheek or ward off evil spirits. This practice dates back to ancient Babylon [source: Wynbrandt].

Beyond bandages, history reveals many unconventional toothache remedies. From heated bricks wrapped in cloth to cotton balls soaked in chloroform, people have tried countless methods to relieve dental pain [sources: Steele; Ritter, et. al]. Ancient Chinese records mention using arsenic pills placed between teeth for pain relief [source: Wynbrandt]. Meanwhile, Siberians opted for a garlic-infused vodka gargle, a remedy some might find more appealing [source: Kourenoff].

Thankfully, you live in the modern era and aren’t a cartoon character. Today, there are numerous safe and effective ways to treat toothaches. If you’re dealing with dental pain, skip the outdated methods like cloth bandages, arsenic, and chloroform, and consider trying one of the remedies listed ahead.

5. Watch What You Eat and Drink

Prevention is ideal, but what should you do once a toothache strikes? While you can’t undo biting into that popcorn kernel, you can avoid worsening the pain by steering clear of certain foods and drinks.

First, avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the pain or damage is located. While ice might temporarily numb the pain, experts advise against consuming very hot or cold foods and drinks. Extreme temperatures can worsen sensitivity and increase discomfort. Until your toothache subsides, skip hot chocolates, iced coffees, chewing ice, hard candies, and popcorn to prevent further damage or pain.

Being mindful of what you eat is logical, but the next remedy might seem less obvious. Still, many have found it effective. Read on to discover more.

4. Massage Your Hand With Ice

Relief for your toothache might come from your hands, not your mouth. Surprisingly, massaging the area between your thumb and index finger with an ice cube can alleviate dental pain [source: Melzack, et al.]. This spot, known as the L14 pressure point in acupressure, is believed to influence pain in various body parts. Researchers suggest that the cold from the ice disrupts pain signals, making it an effective remedy. For best results, gently rub ice on the L14 point for five to seven minutes, focusing on the hand corresponding to the side of your toothache.

Ice can also be applied closer to the source of your discomfort. While consuming cold items might worsen the pain, placing an ice pack on the cheek near the affected tooth can help reduce soreness. If this method works, repeat it three to four times daily until the pain eases.

Acupressure is an age-old practice, and the next remedy has been used for over a century—or even longer. Continue reading to learn more about this time-tested solution.

3. Bite on a Cotton Ball Soaked with Clove Oil

In a 1910 home health journal titled "Mother's Remedies," clove oil (also known as oil of cloves) was praised as a quick and effective solution for toothache relief [source: Ritter, et. al]. Even today, dental professionals continue to endorse this traditional remedy.

Clove oil, extracted from clove buds, is a natural pain reliever. It serves as a herbal substitute for over-the-counter medications and is widely available at pharmacies or health stores. To use, soak a cotton ball in the oil, place it on the affected area, and bite down gently. While safe to swallow, it may cause a slight burning sensation on your gums.

Beyond pain relief, clove oil offers additional advantages. It can help prevent cavities and combat bad breath.

The next remedy involves an even more common household item.

2. Rinse Your Mouth with Warm Salt Water

While salt is often criticized for its negative health impacts, such as raising blood pressure, it also possesses several therapeutic qualities. One of its benefits is its ability to soothe toothache pain.

Creating this remedy is straightforward: Grab your salt, measuring spoons, and a cup from your kitchen. Mix 2 to 3 teaspoons of salt into a glass of warm water [source: Consumer Guide]. Stir well, then take a sip. Instead of swallowing, swish the solution around your mouth like mouthwash. Spit it out and repeat the process for additional relief.

The final remedy, while not as simple or cost-effective as a saltwater rinse, is one of the most effective and widely recommended methods for treating dental pain.

1. Take an Over-the-counter Pain Reliever

While over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers may not seem like traditional home remedies, they fit the criteria since they don’t require a prescription and are commonly found in household medicine cabinets. They are a convenient option for self-treatment.

For OTC solutions, you have a few options. Benzocaine-based antiseptic ointments are popular, though they should never be used on children under 2. Alternatively, ibuprofen or acetaminophen, often already available at home, can effectively reduce toothache pain caused by inflammation. Always check the label for expiration dates and dosage instructions. If your medication is expired, replace it to ensure maximum effectiveness.

For additional insights on dental care, continue reading for more valuable information.