Nothing puts your life on hold like a toothache. It hurts to eat, sleep or even engage in daily activities. If you have a persistent or severe ache, contact your dentist right away. But until your appointment, you can achieve some relief with a few home remedies. 

Dentist-Approved Home Remedies for Toothaches 

1. Hot Tea

Peppermint tea tastes great and is known to reduce swelling—but you won’t be drinking it. Wait for the beverage to cool, then swish it in your mouth. The peppermint and the tannins in black tea may provide the pain relief you’re seeking. You can even place the wet tea bag directly against the affected area.  

2. Salt Water Rinse

One teaspoon of salt in a cup of hot water can clear away debris and reduce swelling. Swish with this solution as many times as you need, as its cleansing properties are excellent for your oral health.

3. Ice

Cold therapy is a tried and true pain remedy. Apply an ice pack to the outside of your cheek or wrap an ice cube in a thin cloth and place it directly on the tooth for a few minutes. If this causes more discomfort, remove it immediately.

4. Ginger & Cayenne

Combine equal parts ginger and cayenne, mixed with just enough water to form a paste. Soak a cotton ball in the paste and place it on the tooth. Take care to avoid your gums and tongue, and leave the cotton ball in place for as long as you can. These spices are both painkillers and can be used alone, but together are quite effective.

5. New Toothbrush

A hard-bristled toothbrush or aggressive brushing could be the cause of your pain. Switch to a soft-bristled model and approach cleaning gently. Try this for a few days to see if the pain clears up.  

6. Acupressure

Find the spot where the base of your thumb meets your index finger. Press your thumb firmly onto the back of this spot, applying pressure for a few minutes. This spot can trigger endorphins that will help relieve your pain.

Enlist these home remedies to alleviate toothache discomfort while waiting for your dentist appointment. When you visit Dr. Robert Petrtyl in Cincinnati, OH, you can relax knowing your health and comfort are his top priority. They offer the latest treatments in a state-of-the-art facility, whether you need a routine teeth cleaning or tooth extraction. The office is open six days a week for your convenience. Call (513) 554-4657 or send a message online today to schedule your appointment.