Bacterial infections of your teeth -- including teeth in which you have fillings -- often cause toothaches. Bacterial tooth infections, also known as tooth abscesses, might spread from the root of your tooth to the bones that support your tooth. Certain herbal remedies might be beneficial in treating your infected tooth and reducing your toothache, although it is always wise to clear the use of herbs for this problem with your doctor first.
About Toothaches
Tooth abscesses, also known as a dental abscess, cause an accumulation of pus -- a combination of leukocytes, necrotic tissue, and live and dead bacteria -- and a swelling of tissues inside your tooth, which in turn causes tooth pain. According to the National Health Service of the United Kingdom, if you do not seek dental treatment for your infected tooth, your dental abscess will progress and cause destruction of bone in the affected area, as well as other health complications.
Appropriate Herbal Remedies
Several herbal remedies might be appropriate in treating your dental abscess, but more clinical research evidence might be necessary to support their use. In her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," certified nutritional consultant Phyllis Balch reports that the following herbs have traditionally been used in treating abscesses: chamomile, echinacea, astragalus, suma, goldenseal, yellow dock, red clover, garlic, burdock root, bromelain, cayenne and dandelion. Helpful nonherbal remedies include vitamins C, E and B complex.
Featured Botanical
Goldenseal is an herb that might be beneficial in treating your dental abscess and toothache. According to naturopathic physician and herbal medicine expert Michael Murray, author of "The Healing Power of Herbs," goldenseal has historically been used for numerous ailments, including mucous membrane infections, parasitic infections, gallbladder inflammation and liver cirrhosis. Goldenseal might also be helpful in treating long-term inflammation and ulcerations of your mouth and throat.
Warning
Tooth problems are a common source of pain and discomfort, and if left untreated, tooth problems might lead to serious health consequences. Herbal remedies might be helpful in treating your tooth problems, though you should avoid self-treating your health problems using herbs. Meet with a health care professional who specializes in herbal medicine to learn more about this natural healing method and whether it is appropriate for you and your oral health problem.
References
- MedlinePlus: Tooth Abscess
- National Health Service: Introduction
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis Balch; 2010
- "The Healing Power of Herbs"; Michael Murray; 1995
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