A severe toothache can be one of the most uncomfortable and distracting pains you’ll ever experience. While seeing a dentist is always the best long-term solution, there are times when you may need quick relief at home before you can get professional care. Fortunately, a few simple home remedies can help ease the pain and make you more comfortable until your appointment.
1. Saltwater Rinse
A saltwater rinse is one of the easiest and most effective ways to manage toothache pain. Salt naturally reduces inflammation and helps kill harmful bacteria in the mouth. To make a rinse, dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out. Repeat as needed throughout the day. This remedy is gentle and safe for most people, including children.
2. Cold Compress
If your toothache is accompanied by swelling, applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek can help numb the pain and reduce inflammation. Simply wrap a bag of ice or a cold pack in a cloth and hold it against the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes. You can repeat this every few hours. The cold slows down blood flow, which helps minimize throbbing and swelling.
3. Clove Oil
Clove oil has been used for centuries as a natural toothache remedy because it contains eugenol, a natural anesthetic with antibacterial properties. To use it, dip a cotton ball in a few drops of clove oil (diluted with a carrier oil like olive oil to avoid irritation) and gently apply it to the sore tooth or gums. You can also add a drop to a glass of water and use it as a mouth rinse.
4. Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse
A hydrogen peroxide rinse can help kill bacteria, reduce plaque, and ease bleeding gums that might be contributing to your pain. Mix equal parts 3 percent hydrogen peroxide and water, then swish it around your mouth without swallowing. Spit it out and rinse with plain water afterward. This remedy is particularly helpful if your toothache is related to an infection or inflamed gums.
5. Garlic Paste
Garlic is not just a kitchen staple—it’s also a powerful natural remedy with antibacterial properties. Crushing a fresh garlic clove releases allicin, a compound that can help fight bacteria and reduce pain. To use it, crush a clove into a paste and apply it directly to the affected tooth for a few minutes. While the taste and smell may be strong, many people find significant relief.
When to See a Dentist
While these home remedies can provide temporary relief, they are not a permanent solution. A severe toothache often signals an underlying issue such as decay, infection, or a cracked tooth—problems that require professional dental treatment. If your pain persists for more than a day or two, or if you notice swelling, fever, or difficulty swallowing, contact your dentist right away.
Toothaches can disrupt your day, but with these 5 easy home remedies, you can manage the pain until you get professional care. Don’t ignore the symptoms—addressing the root cause with your dentist will keep your smile healthy and pain-free in the long run.
About the Author
Dr. Chase Smith earned his dental degree from The Ohio State University before completing an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at the Dayton VA where he gained experience handling more complicated cases for medically compromised patients. He’s continued to stay current with the latest developments in the dental field, attending training courses through the Pankey Dental Institute. He is a member of the Seattle Study Club and Spectrum Dental Society as well as the American Dental Association and the Ohio Dental Association. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, don’t hesitate – reach out online to schedule your appointment or call (740) 246-5286.