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Serious Toothache Remedy

According to the Mayo Clinic, tooth decay is the No. 1 cause of toothaches in both children and adults. Tooth decay occurs when plaque forms on the teeth. Plaque contains bacteria that produce acids that eat away at the tooth enamel, causing a cavity. Untreated cavities leave the root of the tooth exposed, which can cause intense pain. You can take steps to temporarily relieve the symptoms of a serious toothache while you wait to see a dentist.

  1. Benzocaine

    • The Mayo Clinic suggests placing benzocaine on the affected area to temporarily remove pain. You can purchase creams and gels containing benzocaine in the toothpaste aisle of your local grocery store or drugstore, including Orajel and Orabase. Rinse and dry the affected area with a paper towel, then apply a dot of benzocaine gel or cream directly to the area using a cotton swab or your finger. Let the cream sit undisturbed for approximately one minute, then allow it to dissolve in your mouth. Repeat as necessary, about once every four hours.

    Salt Water

    • Swishing the toothache area with salt water is a popular home remedy that can help numb the area and keep it clean, as salt is a natural antiseptic. Although swishing with salt water may temporarily sting in the affected area, it will quickly numb the area afterward and work to prevent infection. Place 2 tbsp. of salt in a glass of water. Swish the water in your mouth for about 10 seconds, then spit it out and take another mouthful. Swish each mouthful for about 10 seconds until the salt water is gone. Repeat as necessary to ease the pain.

    Ginger

    • Using ginger on a toothache is a commonly used home remedy for the pain, although it will not disinfect the tooth. You can purchase a piece of ginger root at the grocery store. Cut off a slice of ginger from the larger root and remove the outer skin of the root, leaving only the moist ginger. Put the slice of ginger directly on the affected area and bite down. Hold your bite for at least two minutes, then remove the ginger. Repeat as necessary to ease the pain.

    Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen

    • Ibuprophen and acetaminophen are over-the-counter pain medications that can ease the pain of a toothache temporarily, but will not disinfect or heal the tooth. If you experience pain or throbbing around the affected area, you can use ibuprophen or acetaminophen in conjunction with any of the above remedies. Take two acetaminophen or ibuprophen tablets every four hours, or as directed on the bottle.

    Professional Intervention

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, you must see a dentist immediately as soon as any signs of infection occur. Signs of infection include redness around the gum area where the decay occurs, pain when you bite down and a bad taste in your mouth. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, see a dentist immediately.

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