Because we’re in the throes of the COVID-19 pandemic, the last place you want to be right now is a crowded grocery store full of people who don’t follow social distancing guidelines. However, when you have a serious toothache, you might want to go to the store or pharmacy to buy some pain relievers. While the first thing you should do is call your dentist in State College to get the bottom of your pain, here are a few home remedies you can use in the meantime using items from your kitchen pantry.
1. Clove Oil
The primary chemical compound in clove oil is called eugenol, which is a natural anesthetic. However, be careful that you don’t place the oil directly on the sore area, as that could worsen your pain. Instead, put a couple of drops of clove oil on a cotton ball and place it against the aching tooth until your pain fades away. Alternatively, you could place an entire clove on the tooth, chewing on it a little for half an hour or so.
2. Ginger- Cayenne Paste
Mix equal parts of both of these spices with enough water to form a paste. This should be about a pinch of each spice. Roll a cotton ball into the paste and apply it to your hurting tooth while avoiding your gums and tongue if you can, as this creation is likely to cause a burning sensation. The main chemical compound in cayenne, known as capsaicin, can help block pain signals from reaching the brain.
3. Saltwater
Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in an eight-ounce glass of water. Not only does salt contain natural antibacterial agents, but this mixture can help reduce swelling and dislodge any food particles that may be trapped between your teeth and causing your pain. Swish this solution around in your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out.
4. Hydrogen Peroxide
Rinse your mouth out with a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution. Make sure not to swallow this mixture, as that can be harmful. Once you spit it out, swish some water around in your mouth to remove any leftover traces of hydrogen peroxide.
5. Sugar-Free Chewing Gum
If your toothache is caused by a broken or chipped tooth or a lost filling, you can protect your tooth from sensitivity by applying a small amount of sugarless gum to it. In the meantime, avoid chewing with that tooth until you can see your dentist.
If you have a toothache, you don’t have to trek all the way to the grocery store for relief. Instead, call your dentist and apply one or more of these home remedies until your appointment. Most dentists are still open to treating dental emergencies, and a toothache severe enough to warrant these remedies definitely counts as an emergency.
About the Author
Dr. Chris Devlin is a family dentist in State College, PA who graduated from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine more than 25 years ago. He is associated with the Pankey Institute, the Dawson Academy, and the Society of Dental Anesthesiology. His practice is still open to treating dental emergencies, so if you have a serious toothache, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Devlin’s office by calling (814) 238-3553.