Tooth pain, also known as a toothache, is usually caused by a cavity, a tooth infection, or an earache, says the U.S. National Library of Medicine. If you are suffering from tooth pain, the few hours before you are able to get to the dentist may seem like an eternity. Use home remedies to numb the pain while you're waiting.
Warm Water
Rinsing out the mouth with warm water may help reduce some toothache pain, says the Mayo Clinic. Water that is warm, but not hot or cold, may help dislodge any rotting food or bacteria that is lodged in the crevices of the tooth. Carefully swish a mouthful of warm water around the mouth, then spit it out. Repeat as necessary to relieve toothache pain. Adding a small amount of salt to the water may also help numb the pain. Mix 3 tsp. of salt into a glass of warm water, recommends William P. Maher, D.D.S., assistant professor of endodontics at the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry.
Calm Down
Taking deep, slow breaths and listening to soothing music may help calm the body and reduce some of the searing pain of a toothache, says Thomas Lundeen, D.M.D., co-director of the Clinical Pain Program at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. By calming down, turning down the lights and thinking of soothing images, you may be able to handle the pain more easily. Distracting your attention away from the toothache will help make the pain more manageable.
Oil of Cloves
Apply a small amount of oil of cloves directly to the tooth to help reduce tooth pain, suggests the Mayo Clinic. Oil of cloves is available at health food stores and drugstores. Apply oil of cloves to a tissue or piece of gauze and apply it between the afflicted tooth and your cheek, or dab a small amount of oil of cloves right on the the tooth. Apply as necessary throughout the day to numb toothache pain and make waiting to go to the dentist more bearable.
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