A toothache and infection may be extremely painful, especially when visiting a dentist is not an immediate option. Garlic has been often associated with healing a painful tooth. The herb has a variety of medicinal properties from fighting bacteria to decreasing inflammation, according to "Staying Healthy with Nutrition" by Dr. Elson Haas. Using garlic to treat medical conditions goes back centuries. Pain or infection associated with a toothache may decrease when introducing garlic. Still, using the herb is not a replacement option for visiting your dentist.
Health Benefits
Garlic contains the the amino acid alliin, and when crushed transforms to allicin. Allicin contains the antibacterial benefits of garlic, but it is highly odorous. Using garlic to fight a tooth infection or toothache is a home remedy that has little scientific backing. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, garlic is also used to treat cardiovascular disease, cancer and even the common cold. Still, garlic is considered generally safe to use by most health experts, states the university.
Type
According to Creighton University, home-made garlic treatments remain the most imprecise method of treatment when using garlic. The purity of the garlic depends on the growing conditions as well the country of origin. When using fresh garlic to treat a toothache, crushing or chewing fresh garlic must occur to release the allicin. Raw garlic may be difficult for some people to tolerate, states Haas. Still, raw garlic is quickly accessible by most and often found directly in the home, a benefit when the dentist's office is closed.
Application
"Country Almanac of Home Remedies: Time --Tested and Almost Forgotten Wisdom" by Briggitte Mars suggests placing slightly crushed garlic over the painful tooth area for about 20 minutes. The garlic will increase circulation and fight off infection. If applying the garlic directly to the tooth is uncomfortable or causes stinging, crush the garlic and place in gauze, before placing directly on the gums.
Additional Tips
In some situations it is best to seek immediate medical attention. According to Mayo Clinic, call your dentist or emergency personnel if your toothache is associated with difficulty breathing. The website also suggests consulting a dental professional if tooth pain lasts longer than two days. Garlic is a recommended home remedy when the dentist is not available, but if signs of infection are present, visiting your dentist is best. Signs of infection include red gums, swelling, pain when chewing or fever, according to Mayo Clinic.
References
- Creighton University Medical Center: Mechanism of Action
- "The Country Almanac of Home Remedies: Time-Tested & Almost Forgotten Wisdom"; Briggitte Mars; 2011
- Mayo Clinic:Toothache
- Univeristy of Maryland Medical Center: Garlic
- "Staying Healthy with Nutrition"; Elson Haas; 2006
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