Spending sleepless nights as a result of toothache? Dealing with toothache can be irritating and painful. It can give you a hard time and might interfere with your day to day activities. Yes, popping a painkiller sounds like an easy option but before reaching for over-the-counter and unprescribed painkillers, consider trying some natural ways to effectively reduce your toothache. Here are some home remedies for reducing your toothache.
1. Rinsing With Salt Water
The simplest yet effective remedy, a salt water rinse may help you alleviate your pain. Salt water can be used as a natural disinfectant as it helps in loosening food particles or any kind of dirt that may be stuck between your teeth. As per study, salt water can also help in reducing inflammation and heal oral wounds and gums. Mix half a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water and use it as a mouthwash. This can help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria in the mouth, providing temporary relief from pain.
2. Cloves
Long used for medicinal purposes, cloves can help you relieve your tooth pain. A study published in ScienceDirect reveals that clove has antibacterial properties. Anti-inflammatory chemicals, including eugenol and flavonoids, are found in cloves that help decrease inflammation and alleviate pain. These anti-inflammatory properties, as per study, are a popular natural cure for toothaches and gum discomfort. You can apply clove oil directly to the affected tooth using a cotton ball or mix ground cloves with a little water to make a paste and apply it to the tooth.
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3. Garlic
Another herb majorly used for medicinal purposes and as a staple ingredient in Indian cuisine, garlic, can also help in reducing pain. Studies have shown that garlic has antibacterial properties and they can help in reducing pain and inflammation. As per a published study, garlic can not only kill harmful bacteria which causes dental plaque but also acts as a pain reliever. Crush a garlic clove to release its juices, then apply it directly to the affected tooth. Alternatively, you can chew a clove of garlic to release its juices.
4. Cold Compress
Have you ever gone through root canal or tooth extraction? Post the procedure, your dentist might have suggested that you eat ice-cream or use an ice pack to reduce the pain. Now you know the reason? A cold compress can help in numbing the pain of toothache and can also reduce swelling. Wrap a few ice cubes in a thin cloth and apply it to the cheek outside the affected tooth for 15-20 minutes at a time. You can also use an ice pack and apply it to the cheek.
5. Turmeric Paste
How can we miss turmeric when it comes to relieving inflammation? As per studies, curcuming is an active compound in turmeric which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help in reducing the toothache and swelling. Mix turmeric powder with a small amount of water to make a paste and apply it to the affected tooth.
Also read: A Dental Expert Shares Whether Electric Toothbrushes Are Really Worth The Hype
6. Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse
Hydrogen peroxide has antibacterial properties that can help reduce pain and inflammation. Mix equal parts of 3% hydrogen peroxide and water, then swish it around in your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out.
Conclusion
Above mentioned home remedies can only provide you temporary relief from toothache and they are not a substitute for professional dental care. If you are experiencing severe and persistent toothache, it is advisable that you consult with a dentist as soon as possible. Toothache if left untreated can cause a lot of problems like tooth decay. Visit your doctor and get an appropriate diagnosis and treatment.
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