When you're suffering from tooth pain, you want to fix the problem as quickly as possible. It's important to see a dentist when you experience a toothache to find out what is causing your pain. Toothaches are frequently caused by tooth decay generated by bacteria in your mouth. A toothache is often a sign that your dentist will need to perform a filling or root canal. Toothaches can also be a sign of other health issues, such as sinus infections. While you're waiting to see your dentist to determine the cause of your tooth pain, try a few home treatments to provide you with some pain relief.
Step 1
Rinse your mouth with warm water. The Mayo Clinic suggests washing away bacteria that may be causing tooth pain by doing a warm water rinse.
Step 2
Use dental floss to clean between your teeth. If your toothache is caused by food stuck between your teeth, flossing will remove the food and provide pain relief.
Step 3
Take over-the-counter pain relievers until you can see a dentist. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen can give you temporary relief from toothache pain.
Step 4
Find whole cloves in your pantry or in the spice aisle at the grocery store. The Northwestern Health Sciences University website states that you can chew whole cloves to relieve toothache pain. Chew the clove on the side of the mouth where you are experiencing pain. You can also purchase clove oil at the drug store and apply it directly to the affected tooth for numbing pain relief.
Step 5
If you suspect your toothache may be caused by a sinus infection, try taking an over-the-counter sinus-clearing medication or using a saline nasal spray or rinse to clear your sinuses. See a doctor to get treatment for a sinus infection. According to the Mayo Clinic, sinus infections frequently cause pain in the front teeth.
Tips and Warnings
- Toothaches can sometimes be caused by ear infections. If you have a fever or ear pain along with your toothache, consult a doctor as soon as possible.
- Clove oil should not be used by women who are pregnant or anyone taking blood thinning medication.
