Toothaches usually occur as a result of cavities or infection caused by poor dental hygiene, although the tendency to develop tooth decay may be partly inherited. Make an appointment with your dentist at the first sign of tooth pain, as this most likely indicates a need for dental intervention. Over-the-counter pain medications and herbal remedies may help alleviate pain while waiting to see your dentist. To prevent tooth decay and toothaches, the University of Maryland Medical Center recommends practicing good oral hygiene, eating a low-sugar diet and receiving regular professional teeth cleaning.
Clove Oil
Clove oil, one of the most well-known herbal remedies for toothache, contains a pain-relieving substance known as eugenol. When applied topically, eugenol provides almost instant pain relief. A study published in 2006 in the Journal of Dentistry found that clove oil was as effective as benzocaine at relieving pain and has the potential to replace benzocaine for use as a topical anesthetic in dentistry. Place a few drops of clove oil directly onto the painful tooth for the best results, or press a whole clove against the tooth after moistening with saliva. Do not apply clove oil directly to the gums, as it may cause slight irritation or burning.
Turmeric
Turmeric, a popular culinary spice used in many natural toothache products, has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and pain-relieving properties. The herb also stimulates circulation and helps boost immune cells at the site of the infection. Linda B. White, author of "The Herbal Drug Store," recommends mixing a teaspoon of turmeric powder with about a half teaspoon of water to make a thick paste and then applying directly to the affected tooth. Repeat as necessary to relieve toothache pain.
Prickly Ash Bark
An old-fashioned toothache remedy, prickly ash bark was used by the Native Americans to relieve tooth pain caused by an infection. In his book "Tyler's Herbs of Choice: The Therapeutic Use of Phytomedicinals," James E. Robbers recommends using the bark in a similar way to help quell toothache pain. Chew a small amount of the bark, moistening it with saliva, and then pack the mass around the painful tooth as an emergency method of alleviating acute pain. No adverse side effects have been reported from the herb's use, though Robbers warns that you should use this method only as a last resort until you can see a dentist.
Ginger
A compress made from powdered ginger root may relieve toothache pain, according to herbalist James A. Duke in his book "The Green Pharmacy." Ginger appears to work by irritating the surface of the tooth and gums, which helps abate the deeper pain of the toothache. To make a ginger compress for your tooth, mix a teaspoon of powdered ginger root with a half-teaspoon of water to form a thick, gooey paste. Dip a cotton swab into the paste and apply directly to the affected tooth, keeping it off the gums. This remedy may cause slight burning. If you experience more discomfort than you can handle, rinse your mouth immediately with cool water.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Toothaches
- PubMed.gov: The Effect of Clove and Benzocaine Versus Placebo as Topical Anesthetics
- "The Herbal Drugstore"; Linda B. White, Steven Foster; 2000
- "Tyler's Herbs of Choice: The Therapeutic Use of Phytomedicinals"; James E. Robbers, Varro E. Tyler; 1999
- "The Green Pharmacy"; James A. Duke; 1998
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