Tooth Pain is one of the most intense and frustrating pains you can experience, often striking in the middle of the night or during a weekend when a dentist isn’t available. While a visit to the dentist is essential for treating the root cause, natural home remedies can provide fast and temporary relief.
In this blog, we’ll explore the top 10 scientifically-supported and time-tested home remedies for tooth pain relief using common kitchen and herbal ingredients.
What Causes Tooth Pain?
Toothaches may stem from a variety of issues, such as:
- Tooth decay (cavities)
- Gum disease
- Tooth fracture or trauma
- Abscess or infection
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Food particles stuck between teeth
- Sinus infections (referred pain)
⚠️ Note: These remedies are not a replacement for professional dental care. If your tooth pain persists for more than 1–2 days, consult a dentist.
Top 10 Home Remedies for Tooth Pain Relief
1. Clove Oil
Why it works: It contains eugenol, a natural anesthetic and antiseptic.
How to use:
Dip a cotton ball in clove oil and place it on the affected area for 15–20 minutes. Alternatively, mix a few drops with a carrier oil and apply it with a clean finger.
👉 Read more about clove oil for a toothache – Healthline
2. Salt Water Rinse
Why it works: Reduces inflammation, disinfects the mouth, and loosens trapped food.
How to use:
Mix 1/2 tsp of salt in a cup of warm water. Swish around your mouth for 30 seconds and spit. Repeat 2–3 times a day.
3. Cold Compress
Why it works: Numbs the area and reduces swelling.
How to use:
Wrap ice in a towel and apply to the cheek near the painful area for 15 minutes. Repeat every few hours.
4. Peppermint Tea Bags
Why it works: Peppermint contains menthol, which has numbing and cooling properties.
How to use:
Chill a used peppermint tea bag in the freezer for a few minutes. Apply it to the sore area for soothing relief.
5. Garlic Paste
Why it works: Garlic has antibacterial and pain-relieving properties thanks to allicin.
How to use:
Crush a garlic clove into a paste and apply directly to the painful tooth. Add a pinch of salt for extra effect.
8. Ginger Root
Why it works: Ginger has natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial compounds, especially gingerol, which can reduce pain and fight oral bacteria.
How to use:
Peel a small piece of fresh ginger and chew it gently on the side of the mouth with the toothache. Alternatively, you can crush the ginger and apply the juice or pulp directly to the affected tooth for 10–15 minutes.
7. Vanilla Extract
Why it works: It contains alcohol and antioxidants that soothe and disinfect.
How to use:
Dab a small amount on a cotton swab and apply to the affected area a few times a day.
8. Guava Leaves
Why it works: It has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory benefits.
How to use:
Chew fresh guava leaves or boil them to make a mouth rinse.
9. Turmeric Paste
Why it works: Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antiseptic herb.
How to use:
Mix turmeric powder with water or honey to form a paste. Apply to the sore tooth and let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
10. Thyme Oil
Why it works: It contains thymol, which has powerful antibacterial and antioxidant effects.
How to use:
Dilute a drop of thyme essential oil in a carrier oil and apply it to the painful area. You can also make a rinse by adding a few drops to water.
When to See a Dentist
You should visit a dentist right away if your tooth pain is really bad and doesn’t go away. Other warning signs include swelling, fever, a bad taste or pus in your mouth, or if your tooth is cracked or completely knocked out. If you’re having trouble opening your mouth or swallowing, that’s also a sign that something serious might be going on. These problems could mean you have an infection or abscess that needs quick treatment.
Final Thoughts
While these home remedies provide fast and natural relief, they are not permanent solutions. Tooth pain usually signals an underlying dental issue. Always follow up with a professional for proper diagnosis and long-term care.
