Dental Tips: How to Relieve Toothaches

If you’re in pain due to your tooth (teeth), there is most definitely a reason for it. Many dental problems can be the cause of a toothache, ranging from abscessed tooth, tooth fracture, infected gums, damaged filling, tooth decay, etc. For the most part, poor oral care/hygiene is the reason behind these toothaches.

Typically, the pain is occurring because the dentin layer of the tooth is exposed by a crack or break or decay in the tooth. The dentin layer lies between the enamel and the pulp chamber, the pulp chamber contains the nerve endings and tiny blood vessels that get affected.

Although only a doctor can really get to the root of the issue, it is good to know some remedies for your toothache until you can visit the dentist.

• Cold/Hot Compress - One of the simplest methods of pain relief is an application of ice over affected area. It will help numb things, and if that doesn’t work, try the opposite- hot compress.
• Cloves - Oil of cloves is used in dental materials because of its antiseptic and anesthetic properties. It is an old timer’s remedy, rest a clove against the sore area until the pain subsides.
• Salt Water - Mix a tablespoon of salt to 12 ounces of warm water, swish around mouth for as long as you can, spit out. Repeat 2 to 3 times a day.
• Alcohol - Whisky, scotch, brandy, or vodka has been said to be effective in numbing the affected gum and reducing toothache when swooshed around mouth. A strong mouthwash that contains alcohol will do the trick as well.
• Spice Extract - Vanilla, Almond, Peppermint, or Lemon can be saturated on a cotton ball/swab and held in place.

You may try any or all of the remedies above, which ever you find to be more effective. Also, remember to take an over the counter pain relief medicine. Pain relief medication is to reduce inflammation, which in most cases, toothaches are caused by inflammation of the nerve or tissues. A toothache may come and go with the use of these remedies, but don’t be fooled, you still need to seek an opinion of a dentist to diagnose the underlying issue.

References:

• Buzzle; www.buzzle.com/articles/home-remedies-toothache-pain-relief.html (accessed 11/15/2012).
• TipNut; www.tipnut.com/toothache-remedies/ (accessed 11/15/2012).