We’ve all experienced tooth pain before. Most likely, it was at a time when we aren’t able to get to our dentist’s office right away; maybe because of work, school, prior commitments or your dentist just doesn’t have immediate availability. This post is going to help you explore different ways to alleviate your pain temporarily so that you can make it to your dentist appointment without the relentlessness of tooth pain throughout the day(s) leading to your dental visit.
Some of these tactics you may have heard of before, others you’re probably reading about for the first time. Either way, they are worth trying because we all know that tooth pain has the capacity to be some of the most uncomfortable pain you can experience (especially with how often we use our mouths throughout our day by eating, talking, brushing our teeth etc.).
1.) Garlic – It contains natural antibiotics and other medicinal qualities. There are a couple of ways to leverage the effects of garlic. First of which is to mix a garlic clove (or garlic powder) with table salt. You may apply it directly to the affected tooth or you may chew on 1 or 2 cloves predominantly with your affected tooth. This is most effective after several days of doing it.
2.) Onion – Onions contain antiseptic and antimicrobial properties. An antimicrobial is an agent that inhibits the growth of microorganisms and/or kills them (primarily bacteria which can cause cavities). At the first indication of tooth pain you’ll want to chew on raw onions for anywhere between 3 and 6 minutes. If the pain is so severe that you’re unable to chew, you may also place the onion directly on the affected area, including your gums. (Yes, we realize these two options won’t give you the greatest-smelling breath!)
3.) Vanilla extract – This particular extract has the ability to numb and also provides a calming sensation. It’s important that you do not use too much of it as it could have an adverse affect on your tooth or gums. Simply use 2-3 drops on a cotton swab or dip the swab in the extract and apply to the area causing the pain. For this, you will want to repeat this process multiple times per day.
4.) Wheatgrass juice – Wheatgrass has antibacterial qualities. Having been used for hundreds of years in aiding illnesses and wounds, wheatgrass is sure to alleviate some of your pain. It also fights tooth decay and it also absorbs toxins from your gums. It reduces the growth of bacteria in the affected area of your mouth. The most effective use is to create a juice out of it and use it as a mouthwash. If this isn’t possible then you can just as easily chew on the wheatgrass, provided the pain isn’t too severe.
5.) Clove oil – Clove oil is made up of 80-95% eugenol. Eugenol is responsible for preserving foods and keeping them from spoiling; a while back, though, scientists discovered its medicinal and health benefits. It can act as a natural anesthetic. Much like vanilla extract, it’s very important that you not overuse this product. In large quantities it can be counterproductive. 2 drops on a swab to place directly on the affected area for up to a half hour can work wonders.
Please keep in mind that all of the above listed remedies are meant to be used only as temporary fixes to get you through to your dentists appointment. Applying any of these products will not cure you of the cause of the pain; only alleviate the pain for a short time. Please be sure to act responsibly and call for an appointment to correct the issue. Reach out to LR Family Dental today! Remember that we offer free consultations for new patients!