Sometimes, toothache can spring up on a person. Worse, it can ruin a perfect vacation, where nothing exotic or beautiful will seem to get through the pain you are feeling life becomes uncomfortable. When a dentist is not readily available and pain relievers are nowhere in sight, here are some natural remedies that can be applied to temporarily alleviate the pain.
Cloves or clove oil
Chew some cloves or if available, dab clove oil straight on the aching tooth. Cloves are said to have bacteria-fighting properties and as a bonus, numbing effect that can remedy toothaches. They contain eugenol, a local anesthetic that can temporarily provide relief from the pain. For whole cloves, put a few in the mouth and let them soften. Chew them using the non-hurting teeth to release the oil. Then, bite the softened cloves with the aching tooth or teeth and let it stay up to half an hour.
Cayenne and ginger
Make a paste of powdered cayenne pepper and ginger, and then add a little bit of water. Use a cotton ball to collect the paste and press it against the aching tooth. However, this mixture could possibly irritate the gums, so be careful on letting it touch anything other than the affected tooth. If only one is available, then either powdered ginger or cayenne pepper with water may do the trick as well.
Peppermint
Peppermint, one of the major components of toothpastes has a numbing effect apart from its aromatic properties. Place peppermint leaves in a cup of boiling water and let it steep for at least 20 minutes. Once cooled, swish around the mouth, and then either spit or swallow. Repeat this procedure as often as necessary.
Hydrogen peroxide
Also a leading ingredient of toothpastes, 3% hydrogen peroxide can help alleviate toothache. Swish a mouthful of solution and spit out afterwards (do not swallow). This also works well for gum infections as the solution has anti-bacterial properties. However, note that the presence of infection should be a sign that a dentist visit is due.
Salt
Good old salt is also a natural remedy for toothache. Add a teaspoon to a glass of warm water and gargle for 30 seconds before spitting out. Saltwater has cleansing properties and helps draw out fluid that cause swelling around the teeth. This may be done as often as needed.
Acupressure
Studies say that we can pinpoint and perhaps alleviate pain in the body by placing pressure on another body part. In the case of toothaches, pressing fingers on the band of the hand, on the web between the thumb and the index fingers may do the trick. Apply pressure for at least two minutes, and repeat on the other hand. The pressure is said to release endorphins, or the feel-good hormones. Note that this is not advisable for pregnant women.
There are still a myriad of home remedies available, but note that the best way to get over a toothache is to have it checked by a dentist as soon as possible. To get the care you deserve, contact the Lakeway Cosmetic Dentistry for a check-up.