If your smile is in pain, your first thought might be to look up, “what to do if I have a toothache?” You might be hit with results on what to do right away, such as scheduling a visit with your emergency dentist, but what can you do in the moment? While your provider will get rid of the problem, there are some at-home remedies that offer temporary relief. Here are four to try while you wait for your appointment.
1.) Put a Cold Pack on Your Cheek
An easy way you can soothe the area is by using a cold pack. Put one against your cheek where the toothache is, and the coolness can reduce blood flow to slightly numb it. You can make one of these yourself by putting ice in a plastic baggie and wrapping it in a cloth. Keep it on for 15-minute intervals, and you may be all set!
2.) Do a Warm Saltwater Rinse
You may put salt on your meals to let the flavors blossom, but it can be especially helpful for dental discomfort. By rinsing with it, you can clear out debris and bacteria while also reducing inflammation and promoting healing. All you have to do is mix a teaspoon of this seasoning into a glass of warm water and use it as a mouthwash.
3.) Eat Garlic
When cooking at home, you may throw in a bit of extra garlic into your meals. The taste and aroma might be something you love, but it has some medicinal properties you can use to your advantage. It can help kill harmful bacteria, so you may use it to get relief from your toothache. Slowly chew on a fresh clove to get its benefits or grind it into a paste and apply it to the affected structure.
4.) Apply Vanilla Extract
Aside from your favorite baked goods, vanilla extract can be a good choice to use as well. Mainly because it has alcohol, which can numb the pain while also aiding in healing. To use it effectively, put a small amount on a cotton swab or your finger, and gently put it on your tooth. However, be sure you are using the real deal and not imitation vanilla.
Hopefully, you are able to find relief with one of these handy home remedies. If they do work for you, then remember they are only a temporary solution. The underlying problem may still be present, and your dentist is here to give you the permanent fix you deserve.
About the Author
Dr. Nelson Howard earned his dental degree from the UCLA School of Dentistry. He has over 37 years of experience that he uses to give the San Marcos community the high-quality care they deserve. Dr. Howard is here for your dental emergencies, offering guidance and advice until you can sit in his chair to get the treatment you deserve. If you have a severe toothache, the fastest way to schedule an appointment is by calling his office at (760) 599-6559.