Home Remedies for Toothache

Why toothaches happen: Understanding the pain

A toothache doesn't just come out of nowhere. It's usually the result of something specific happening in your mouth, and sometimes even beyond it.

Here are the most common culprits behind dental pain:

Recognising your pain pattern

The type of pain you're feeling can help you figure out what's happening.

Night Guards: Protect Your Teeth While You Sleep

If clenching or grinding is behind your toothache, a night guard could be a game-changer. These custom-fit mouthpieces act as a protective barrier, reducing the pressure on your teeth and preventing further damage.

At Caspersmile, we offer high-quality, comfortable night guards designed to fit perfectly and help you sleep peacefully while protecting your smile. They're easy to use, discreet, and professionally made to last.

“Bruxism is the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth, often during sleep. It can cause tooth wear, headaches, and jaw pain if untreated. Night guards, stress relief techniques, and dental adjustments are common treatments.”

Dr. Ardra Kilaparti

Don't wait until the pain gets worse.

Take the first step towards waking up pain-free and protecting your teeth for the long term.

Order Night Guards!

The role of home remedies

Before we dive into specific remedies, let's get one thing straight: home remedies for toothache are temporary measures, not cures.

Think of them like putting a plaster on a deep cut; they'll help manage discomfort, but they won't solve the underlying issue.

Home remedies work best when:

They are not a substitute for professional care. In fact, using home remedies for too long can mask symptoms while the actual problem gets worse.

Saltwater rinse: The simplest, most reliable remedy

If you are wondering how to relieve gum pain? One of the oldest and most trusted toothache remedies is also the easiest: a saltwater rinse.

Why it works:

Saltwater acts as a natural disinfectant. It reduces inflammation, soothes gums, and helps dislodge food particles or debris stuck between teeth.

How to make a proper rinse:

This simple remedy is safe, effective, and costs next to nothing. It's especially helpful if your pain is related to gum inflammation or irritation.

Cold compress: Numb the pain, reduce swelling

If your toothache is accompanied by swelling or facial pain, a cold compress can bring significant relief.

What to do:

Cold therapy constricts blood vessels, reducing inflammation and numbing sharp pain. It's a must-try for anyone wondering how to stop tooth pain fast at home at night, especially after a dental injury.

Over-the-counter pain relief

When natural remedies aren't enough, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be your best friend.

These are considered some of the strongest toothache medicines available without a prescription.

Clove oil: A natural numbing agent

Clove oil has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for toothaches. Its secret weapon is eugenol, a compound with strong pain-relieving and antibacterial properties.

Here's how to use it safely:

The taste is quite strong, but this is one of the most effective options when you need what helps with toothache naturally.

Garlic: Small but mighty

Garlic isn't just for flavouring curries or pasta. It has powerful antibacterial properties that can help fight the bacteria causing your toothache.

Quick remedy:

Yes, your breath won't smell amazing, but it's worth it when you need natural pain relief in a pinch.

Peppermint tea bags: Gentle and soothing

If clove oil or garlic feels a bit too intense, peppermint tea bags offer a milder, more soothing alternative.

How it works:

This method won't provide as strong relief as clove oil, but it's perfect for sensitive mouths or mild discomfort.

Hydrogen peroxide rinse (but use it carefully)

Hydrogen peroxide is another effective antibacterial rinse, but it must be diluted to avoid irritation or harm.

Safe ratio:

Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water. Swish gently for 30 seconds, then spit out — never swallow.

This rinse helps reduce bacteria and plaque while soothing minor gum inflammation. However, overuse can damage soft tissue, so use sparingly and only as a temporary measure.

Home remedies at a glance

Here's a quick reference table for the most common toothache remedies:

When home remedies help: And when they don't

Home remedies are brilliant for temporary relief.

They're perfect when you:

But here's the catch: they don't fix the underlying cause. You can rinse, numb, and soothe all you want, but if you've got a cavity, infection, or abscess, it will only get worse over time.

The dangers of ignoring a toothache

Some people try to “tough it out,” especially if the pain comes and goes.

Here's why that's a bad idea:

By waiting too long, you risk turning a simple filling into a major, costly procedure.

When to see a dentist urgently

If you notice any of these signs, don't delay, book an appointment with your local dentist immediately:

Preventing future toothaches

While no one can completely avoid dental problems, there's a lot you can do to reduce your risk:

Pro Tip

Many of these habits can also help reduce your braces pain while keeping your teeth healthy and strong.

Toothache: Prevention and remedies

A toothache may be manageable at first, but it's hardly without risk. Sure, home remedies for toothaches can help a bit. A saltwater rinse here, a little clove oil there, they can help you get by until you see your dental professional. Pain is your body's way of saying, "Hey, something isn't right." Listen to it.

Make that appointment, take care of your mouth, and don't let something small become something very large.

If you're experiencing dental pain right now, Caspersmile is here to help you return to smiling, eating, and living without that constant ache in your jaws. Because you deserve a smile that looks great and feels great.

Frequently asked questions

How can I quickly relieve tooth pain? +

Use a cold compress, take ibuprofen or paracetamol, rinse with warm saltwater, or apply clove oil for temporary relief.

What is the 3-3-3 rule for a toothache? +

Take 3 ibuprofen (200mg each), 3 times a day, for 3 days to manage pain and swelling, only if safe for you.

How to sleep with a toothache while pregnant? +

Sleep with your head elevated, use a warm saltwater rinse, and apply a cold compress. Check with your midwife or GP before taking any medication.

When to go to A&E for tooth pain? +

Go to A&E if you have severe swelling affecting breathing or swallowing, intense pain unrelieved by medication, or signs of a spreading infection.

How long will a tooth hurt before the nerve dies? +

Nerve death can take days to weeks, but pain often gets worse before it eases.

Where do you press to stop a toothache? +

Gently press the area between your thumb and index finger (pressure point LI4) for temporary pain relief.

What are the signs of a tooth infection? +

Severe, throbbing pain, swelling in the face or jaw, fever, bad taste in the mouth, and pus around the tooth or gums.

How to stop throbbing nerve pain in a tooth? +

Use a cold compress, take anti-inflammatory medication, rinse with saltwater, and see a dentist urgently for treatment.

Does Bonjela help toothache? +

Yes, Bonjela can numb the area and reduce gum irritation, but it won't fix the cause of the pain.

How can I numb my tooth nerve at home? +

Apply clove oil or a cold compress, or use over-the-counter numbing gels for temporary relief.

How long does tooth pain usually last? +

Mild toothaches may last 1-2 days, but persistent or worsening pain needs a dentist's attention.

Why does pressing on a tooth relieve pain? +

Pressure can temporarily block pain signals to the brain, giving brief relief — but it won't treat the problem.