Toothache can be excruciating, and the thought of waiting several hours or days before seeing a dentist can be unbearable. Fortunately, you don’t have to grin and bear it until your scheduled dental appointment.

We have compiled some effective ways to relieve toothache pain before seeing a dentist.

Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse

Hydrogen peroxide is an antiseptic that can help kill harmful bacteria in your mouth.

Making a hydrogen peroxide rinse at home is easy; mix 3% hydrogen peroxide with an equal amount of water and swish it around your mouth for thirty seconds before spitting it out. Repeat this two or three times a day until you visit the dentist.

Cold Compress

Applying a cold compress to the side of your face where the toothache is may help numb the pain. Wrap an ice pack in a towel and place it on your cheek for fifteen minutes at a time, with a break of fifteen minutes between each session.

Be careful not to apply the ice pack directly to your skin, or it may cause frostbite.

Clove Oil

Clove oil is a natural remedy believed to have analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. Dab a cotton ball in clove oil and place it against your aching tooth and gums.

You can also mix a few drops of clove oil with a carrier oil like olive oil or coconut oil and swish it in your mouth for thirty seconds. Avoid ingesting the oil or overusing it for an extended time.

Saltwater Rinse

A saltwater rinse can help to alleviate toothache pain by reducing inflammation and fighting bacteria in the mouth. Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and swish it around your mouth for thirty seconds before spitting it out.

Repeat as often as needed.

Over-the-counter Painkillers

Over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen, aspirin, or acetaminophen can help in reducing toothache pain. Always check with your pharmacist or doctor for the correct dosage.

Avoid using any medication that you may be allergic to or that may interact with any health condition you may have.

Vanilla Extract

Vanilla extract contains a compound called eugenol that exhibits anti-inflammatory properties and can help to numb the pain. Dab a cotton ball in pure vanilla extract and apply it to your aching tooth and gums for several minutes.

You can also dilute the vanilla extract in warm water and use it as a mouthwash.

Tea Bags

Tea bags contain tannins that may help to reduce swelling and offer pain relief. Steep the tea bag in hot water, let it cool, and gently place it against the aching tooth and gums.

Be sure to use a caffeinated tea bag, as caffeine enhances the effect of tannins.

Elevate Your Head

If toothache pain is disturbing your sleep, try to elevate your head with extra pillows while you sleep. Doing so can help reduce facial swelling and tension in the affected area.

Garlic

Garlic is another natural remedy that exhibits antibacterial properties and can help to alleviate toothache pain. Crush a garlic clove and mix it with salt to make a paste.

Apply the paste directly to the aching tooth and gums, but keep in mind that it may have a strong odor.

Cucumber

Cucumber is known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties and can help to alleviate toothache pain. Cut a cold cucumber into slices and place them on the side of your face where the pain resides.

You can either place them on your current aching tooth or the one that has caused pain recently.

While these remedies may help relieve toothache pain temporarily, it is essential to take care of the underlying dental issue. Your dentist is the best person to diagnose and treat the cause of your toothache.

Make sure to schedule an appointment with them as soon as possible. In the meantime, try these natural remedies to ease your pain and discomfort.