How to Ease Toothache Pain

Toothaches always seem to occur on weekends and other times when you can't get to the dentist. Fortunately, there are several ways to ease the pain a bit, using what you already have at home. While not a permanent solution, these home remedies can make the pain bearable until you can get professional help.

Step 1

Make your own mouth rinse. A couple of teaspoons of table salt in a little warm water will often take the edge off the soreness. Swish the combination around the inside of your mouth, with the same motion you would use with any mouthwash. When finished, spit out the salt water and rinse your mouth with more warm water. Repeat as needed.

Step 2

Grab a tea bag. The tannic acid in the tea often helps ease the discomfort of sore gums and aching teeth. Immerse the tea bag in hot water long enough for all the tea to get wet. Squeeze the excess water out and position the teabag next to your hurting tooth. The pain should begin to subside in a few moments.

Step 3

Open a pack of saltine crackers. Chew six to eight crackers into a paste, then place the paste around the pounding tooth. Many people find this eases the pain within minutes.

Step 4

Use a little clove oil. Soak a small amount of cotton with the oil, and then swab the tooth. Be careful to not let the oil come in contact with your tongue or lips. Your tooth should begin to feel numb in a few moments.

Step 5

Chew some garlic. Fresh garlic can also act as an antiseptic and draw some of the pain out of the tooth. Allow the garlic to rest on and around the tooth for as long as you can stand it. Repeat as necessary.

Tips and Warnings

While home remedies are great for providing temporary relief, they are not permanent solutions. If your toothache lasts more than a couple of days, contact a dentist immediately.

Some people recommend pulverizing an aspirin and applying it directly to the tooth. While this may provide some relief, it can also damage tooth enamel. Try swallowing the whole aspirin instead, and augment the strategy with the wet teabag.