A healthy smile shouldn’t cause you any discomfort, so you should always make an appointment with your dentist if you’re experiencing a toothache. Sometimes a pain in the back of your mouth is the result of a serious underlying issue that needs to be treated by your Murphy emergency dentist right away. However, the most common culprits behind that uncomfortable sensation in your smile are simple oral health problems that can wait to be seen by your dentist for a few days. Here are eight home remedies you can use to manage your toothache until it’s time for your dental appointment.
1.) Rinse with Salt Water
Dissolve a teaspoon of salt into a warm glass of water and rinse your mouth with the solution for 30 seconds. Salt is a natural disinfectant that can soothe inflammation and clear away any harmful bacteria that may be causing your discomfort.
2.) Apply Ice or a Cold Compress
Numbing parts of your mouth can ease pain and reduce swelling. You can accomplish this by applying an icepack or cold compress to your cheek for 15 minutes at a time.
3.) Wash Your Mouth with Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide kills bacteria, reduces plaque, and helps heal bleeding gums, but be very careful not to swallow it. Dilute it in water, swish the solution around in your mouth, then wash out your mouth with plain water several times.
4.) Use Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Over-the-counter pain relievers like Ibuprofen can help treat pain and reduce inflammation in your mouth. If any part of your mouth is bleeding, avoid taking blood-thinning painkillers like Aspirin.
5.) Floss Around the Painful Tooth
Sometimes, a toothache or gum irritation can be the result of something wedged between your teeth. Try flossing gently around your painful tooth to ensure nothing is stuck there.
6.) Place a Black or Peppermint Teabag on the Tooth
Black tea contains tannins that can help reduce swelling and peppermint tea can soothe sensitive gums. To apply this remedy, place a warm, damp teabag directly on the afflicted tooth for relief.
7.) Specialized Dental Products
To treat sensitive teeth, try using desensitizing toothpastes, ultra-soft bristled toothbrushes, and fluoridated mouthwashes. These products can ease discomfort, prevent further damage, and help strengthen your enamel.
8.) Use a Cotton Ball with Clove Oil
Clove oil is a natural antiseptic that has been used throughout history to numb pain and reduce inflammation. Dab a small amount of slightly diluted clove oil onto a cotton ball and place it directly onto the painful tooth.
Remember, even if you can manage the discomfort at home, you should always see your Murphy dentist about a toothache. They can help you choose the most effective treatment so you can get back to enjoying your happy, healthy, and pain-free smile right away!
About the Author
Our dedicated team at Dental Murphy Home in Murphy, TX will always do their best to treat dental emergencies like intense toothaches the same day they’re called in, even on Saturdays. Whether your dental pain needs to be treated with a simple filling or a more complex treatment like a root canal, Dr. Khushboo Gandhi has the training and experience needed to treat you quickly, comfortably, and effectively. If you need help managing pain in your smile, don’t hesitate to contact her via her website or at (972) 532-6506.