Tooth decay is the main cause of toothaches in adults and children, according to MayoClinic.com Cavities form in the teeth when bacteria produces a sticky substance called plaque, which eats through tooth enamel. A toothache is usually a sign that a professional dental exam and treatment is warranted. In the meantime, garlic may sooth toothache pain.
Considerations
Garlic is an antioxidant-rich perennial that's been used medicinally for thousands of years. Garlic may stimulate the immune system and guard against high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke and even cancer. However, further research is needed for conclusive results on garlic's health effects.
Garlic is also an inexpensive natural remedy for the temporary relief of toothache pain. A toothache can can cause sharp and throbbing pain. It can also cause sensitivities to hot and cold food and drinks.
Effects
Garlic contains a potent compound called allicin which may slow the growth of bacteria. Allicin is also regarded as an antiviral and antifungal compound. Allicin appears to be one of the primary active compounds that gives garlic its famous odor and a number of its purported healing benefits.
Recommendations
Placing crushed garlic against a painful tooth may temporarily diminish a toothache, notes Home-Remedies-For-You.com. Garlic is sometime used in combination with other home toothache remedies such as clove oil or rock salt. A garlic clove can also be chewed daily to ease tooth pain.
Limitations
Garlic is not a cure for tooth decay and is intended only as a stopgap measure until a dentist can determine the exact cause of your pain. A toothache can also be a sign of gum disease, grinding teeth, tooth trauma, an abnormal bite or infection, notes the Academy of General Dentistry. Symptoms of an infected tooth may also include red and swollen gums and a foul-tasting discharge.
Warnings
Contact your dentist if tooth pain pain persists for longer than 24 to 48 hours, or you have a fever or trouble swallowing or breathing.
Common side effects of garlic include bad breath, body odor and allergic reactions. People with a garlic allergy may have difficulty breathing and throat swelling. Adverse reactions may also include headache, itching, fever, runny nose, dizziness, chills and sweating.
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