Feb
Your mouth is one of your body’s most sensitive areas, and a toothache can be a major disruption to daily life. Dr. Tina Subherwal works with patients of all ages, diagnosing and treating dental issues resulting from decay, trauma, or age in Redmond, WA.
For patients with toothaches looking for immediate relief, she recommends the following home remedies to alleviate pain while you schedule your appointment to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms:
Saltwater is a natural disinfectant. Rinsing with it can clean the area and dislodge any food debris that may be stuck in your teeth. It’s a simple solution to put together. Mix half a teaspoon of table salt with eight ounces of warm water. Stir the two together, then swish the warm water in your mouth, spitting it out between rinses. A few rounds of this can help reduce inflammation and treat small wounds.
Similar to salt water, hydrogen peroxide is an easy home ready. Hydrogen peroxide is a disinfectant, and swishing with a small amount can kill bacteria and relieve pain and reduce inflammation. To use, dilute your hydrogen peroxide with equal parts water, then swish it like mouthwash before careful not to swallow the solution.
The most common treatment for mild toothaches is OTC pain relievers, like Ibuprofen or Tylenol. There are also topical ointments available at most pharmacies or drugstores. These can be applied directly to the tender area, numbing its sensitivity. Pain relievers are not a long-term solution, however. If pain persists after a few days, make an appointment with Dr. Subherwal to determine the cause of your symptoms.
Applying ice to a tender area can reduce inflammation, allowing your body to heal itself. It will also numb the area, reducing pain while your body heals. Using an ice pack or towel-wrapped bag of ice, ice your face for 15 to 20 minutes and repeat as needed. If pain persists or swelling occurs, you may need to make an appointment with Dr. Subherwal.
This nifty trick is an all-natural option. Garlic contains allicin, an antibacterial compound that can help reduce inflammation. Chew a piece of garlic or place chopped bits around your painful tooth. It may not help your breath, but it has been said to reduce mild aches.
Finally, clove oil is one of the oldest remedies for toothaches. Clove oil contains eugenol, a natural antiseptic. Combine clove oil with olive oil and apply it to the tender area to fight infection and reduce inflammation. You can also combine clove oil with a glass of water and swish the solution like mouthwash.
If pain persists, you will need to schedule an appointment with a dentist like Dr. Subherwal to determine the underlying issues and get treatment before they progress. To make an appointment, call Smile Studios in Redmond, WA, at (425) 584-3242.