Cloves for tooth. Clove Oil for Toothache Relief: Natural Remedy Explored

29.07.202322.06.2023 by alexxlab

How effective is clove oil for treating toothaches. What are the proper methods of application. Are there any potential side effects or risks associated with using clove oil for dental pain.

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The Science Behind Clove Oil’s Pain-Relieving Properties

Clove oil has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for toothaches. Its effectiveness stems from a powerful compound called eugenol, which acts as a natural anesthetic and anti-inflammatory agent. This unique combination makes clove oil particularly suited for addressing dental pain.

Eugenol works by numbing the affected area, providing quick relief from the sharp, throbbing pain associated with toothaches. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce swelling and irritation in the surrounding gum tissue, further alleviating discomfort.

How does eugenol compare to other pain relievers?

Research has shown that eugenol can be just as effective as some over-the-counter pain medications. A British study found that eugenol-based treatments were more effective at reducing pain, inflammation, and infection compared to other analgesics. Furthermore, patients using eugenol experienced better wound healing than those using alternative treatments or no treatment at all.

Another study directly compared a homemade clove gel to 20% benzocaine (a common topical anesthetic) and a placebo. The results demonstrated that both the clove gel and benzocaine significantly reduced pain, with the clove gel proving to be equally effective as the benzocaine treatment.

Proper Application Methods for Clove Oil

To use clove oil effectively for toothache relief, it’s crucial to apply it correctly. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you use clove oil safely and effectively:

Gather your supplies: clove oil, a carrier oil (such as olive oil or coconut oil), cotton swabs or cotton balls, and a small dish.
Mix a few drops of clove oil with about a teaspoon of carrier oil in the dish.
Soak a cotton swab or ball in the oil mixture.
Gently apply the soaked cotton to the affected area, being careful not to swallow any of the oil.
Allow the oil to sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing.
Reapply every 2-3 hours as needed for pain relief.

Are there alternative methods for using clove oil?

Yes, there are a couple of other ways to use clove oil for dental pain relief:

Oil pulling: Mix clove oil with coconut oil and swish it around in your mouth, focusing on the affected area. This method can help distribute the pain-relieving properties throughout your mouth.
Clove paste: Create a paste by grinding fresh whole cloves and mixing them with oil. While less potent than concentrated oil, this method can still provide some relief.

Potential Risks and Side Effects of Using Clove Oil

While clove oil is generally considered safe for topical use, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and side effects. The strong taste of clove oil can be unpleasant, and accidental ingestion may lead to adverse reactions.

What are the possible side effects of swallowing clove oil?

Ingesting clove oil can result in several uncomfortable symptoms, including:

Difficulty breathing
Burning sensation in the nose and throat
Upset stomach
Diarrhea

To minimize these risks, always dilute clove oil with a carrier oil before use and avoid swallowing the mixture. If you experience any adverse reactions, discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional.

Clove Oil vs. Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

When comparing clove oil to conventional over-the-counter pain relievers, it’s essential to consider both effectiveness and potential drawbacks. While clove oil has shown promising results in studies, it may not be suitable for everyone.

How does clove oil compare to traditional pain medications?

Clove oil offers several advantages over traditional pain medications:

Natural origin with fewer synthetic ingredients
Dual action as both an anesthetic and anti-inflammatory
Potentially fewer systemic side effects when used topically

However, over-the-counter pain relievers may be more convenient, have more consistent dosing, and provide longer-lasting relief for some individuals. Ultimately, the choice between clove oil and conventional pain medications depends on personal preference, severity of pain, and individual health factors.

When to Seek Professional Dental Care

While clove oil can provide temporary relief for minor toothaches, it’s crucial to recognize when professional dental care is necessary. Persistent or severe tooth pain may indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires prompt attention from a dentist.

What signs indicate the need for immediate dental treatment?

Seek professional dental care if you experience any of the following symptoms:

Severe pain that persists for more than a day or two
Swelling in the face or jaw
Fever accompanying tooth pain
Difficulty swallowing or breathing
Tooth pain accompanied by a foul taste or odor in the mouth

Remember that while natural remedies like clove oil can provide temporary relief, they are not substitutes for professional dental treatment. Always consult with your dentist for proper diagnosis and treatment of dental issues.

Safety Considerations for Special Populations

When using clove oil for toothache relief, it’s important to consider safety precautions for certain groups of people. Children, pregnant women, and individuals with certain medical conditions may need to exercise extra caution or avoid using clove oil altogether.

Is clove oil safe for use in children?

Clove oil should be used with extreme caution in children and infants. The concentrated nature of essential oils can be too strong for young, sensitive skin and mucous membranes. Always consult with a pediatrician before using clove oil on children, and never use it on infants without professional medical advice.

What precautions should pregnant women take?

Pregnant women should exercise caution when using clove oil. While topical use in small amounts is generally considered safe, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider before using any essential oils during pregnancy. Some essential oils can stimulate contractions or have other effects on pregnancy, so professional guidance is crucial.

Are there any medical conditions that contraindicate clove oil use?

Individuals with certain medical conditions should be cautious when using clove oil:

Bleeding disorders: Clove oil may slow blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding.
Upcoming surgery: Due to its potential effects on blood clotting, clove oil should be avoided for at least two weeks before scheduled surgery.
Allergies: Those with known allergies to clove or other members of the Myrtaceae family should avoid using clove oil.

Always consult with a healthcare provider if you have any underlying medical conditions or concerns about using clove oil.

Long-term Dental Health Strategies

While clove oil can provide temporary relief from toothaches, it’s essential to focus on long-term strategies for maintaining optimal dental health. Preventing dental issues is always preferable to treating them after they occur.

What are effective ways to prevent toothaches and maintain dental health?

Implement these strategies to promote long-term dental health and reduce the likelihood of toothaches:

Brush teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
Floss at least once a day to remove plaque between teeth
Use an antiseptic mouthwash to reduce bacteria in the mouth
Limit sugary and acidic foods that can erode tooth enamel
Avoid tobacco products, which can contribute to gum disease and tooth decay
Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings (typically every six months)
Address any dental issues promptly to prevent them from worsening

By incorporating these habits into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing toothaches and other dental problems. Remember that while natural remedies like clove oil can provide temporary relief, they are not substitutes for proper dental hygiene and professional care.

Exploring Other Natural Remedies for Tooth Pain

While clove oil is a popular natural remedy for toothaches, there are several other options that may provide relief. These alternatives can be used alongside or instead of clove oil, depending on personal preference and effectiveness.

What other natural remedies can help alleviate tooth pain?

Consider trying these natural remedies for tooth pain relief:

Salt water rinse: Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and swish it around in your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out. This can help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria.
Peppermint tea bags: Apply a cooled, used peppermint tea bag to the affected area. Peppermint contains menthol, which has numbing properties.
Garlic: Crush a clove of garlic and mix it with a little salt to create a paste. Apply this mixture to the painful tooth. Garlic has natural antibacterial properties.
Guava leaves: Chew on fresh guava leaves or steep them in boiling water to make a mouthwash. Guava leaves have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Thyme: Create a mouthwash by steeping thyme in hot water. Thyme has antioxidant and antibacterial properties that may help reduce pain and inflammation.

Remember that while these natural remedies may provide temporary relief, they are not substitutes for professional dental care. If tooth pain persists or is severe, always consult with a dentist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Clove Oil for Toothache: Does It Work?

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Getting temporary relief

Toothaches are uniquely irritating. They’re painful, and getting to a dentist for immediate attention may be inconvenient. You can use over-the-counter pain medications, but natural treatments are also available to treat pain.

One of these preferred remedies is cloves. For centuries, cloves have been used as a pain relief technique. Historically, treatments called for inserting the clove into an infected tooth or cavity. They contain an active ingredient that numbs the skin it touches, which may provide temporary relief from the toothache.

Today, instead of grinding cloves, we use clove oil. Clove oil is the extracted, concentrated product from the plant. Read on for instructions on using clove oil.

Trying to use clove oil for the first time?

You’ll need:

a bottle of clove oil or powder
cotton swab or cotton ball
carrier oil (such as coconut oil, almond oil, or olive oil)
a small dish

You can also use clove powder meant for baking, but clove oil is more effective.

Steps

Collect the supplies and ingredients you need.
Squeeze a few drops of clove oil with 1 teaspoon of olive oil into your dish.
Soak your swab or cotton ball with the clove oil.
Gently swipe the swab or ball around the area that is bothering you. Or place the cotton ball over the area.
Allow the oil sit for 5 to 10 minutes before it starts working.
Reapply every 2 to 3 hours for relief.

Was this helpful?

Oil pulling: You can also swirl clove oil mixed with coconut oil in your mouth. Focus on swishing the oil in the affected area to avoid numbing your whole mouth.

Clove paste:You can also make a paste or gel by grinding fresh whole cloves and mixing them with oil. This is less effective than using concentrated oil.

Where to buy clove oil

Look for clove oil in the medicinal section of your supermarket or the home remedies section of your pharmacy. Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil. Carrier oils are neutral oils, such as vegetable or nut oils, that help dilute stronger essential oils to make them easier to use and more palatable. Stop use if the clove oil is too strong, upsets your stomach, or burns.

Read more: 10 best practices for healthy teeth »

Clove oil contains the active ingredient eugenol, which is a natural anesthetic. It helps numb and reduce pain to ease a toothache. Eugenol also has natural anti-inflammatory properties. It may reduce swelling and irritation in the affected area. Dry Socket Paste, an over-the-counter treatment dentists recommend for teeth extraction pain, has eugenol.

A British study found that eugenol is more effective at reducing pain, inflammation, and infection than another type of analgesic. Study participants who used the eugenol-based paste also had better wound healing than study participants who used the other treatment or no treatment at all.

Another study looked directly at a homemade clove gel, 20 percent benzocaine, and a placebo. They found that the clove gel and benzocaine reduced pain significantly. The clove gel was as effective as benzocaine.

Clove oil is naturally unpleasant to taste. Avoid swallowing any of it. Ingesting clove oil can lead to several side effects, including:

breathing difficulties
burning in your nose and throat
upset stomach
diarrhea

While clove oil is widely seen as an acceptable alternative treatment for toothache, it’s not widely supported by mainstream medical doctors. Talk with your dentist if you have any questions about using clove oil as toothache relief.

Infants and children

Avoid giving undiluted clove oil to children. Children may swallow the oil by mistake, which could make them very ill. Be sure to mix the clove oil with natural carrier oil, if you want to use this treatment on your child or infant. These oils dilute the strength of the oil and make it easier for young children to tolerate.

The treatments for toothache largely depend on what’s causing it. There are other ways to relieve toothaches if clove oil doesn’t work. The alternative treatments mentioned below may provide extra benefits alongside clove oil treatments.

If you’re experiencing a toothache right now, keep these steps in mind for managing your pain:

Look for dental damage: Can you see any damage to your teeth? If so, you may need emergency medical attention. If a tooth is cracked or broken, no amount of pain relief may help.
Weigh your options: Which is more ideal for you? If you prefer something more natural, try one of the home remedies above. Otherwise, take one or two of your preferred over-the-counter pain relievers.
Try clove oil: Try clove oil for a day or two as a soak or paste. Continue this until the pain goes away or you’re able to visit with your dentist. Consider OTC pain medication if the relief isn’t strong enough.

Know when to call the doctor

Clove oil is a great temporary pain relief. It may be strong enough to ease pain from a sensitive tooth. However, if your pain is the result of a larger dental issue, like a cavity or broken tooth, call your dentist and schedule an appointment.

Keep reading: Warning signs from your teeth »

Last medically reviewed on February 23, 2017

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

Alqareer, A., Alyahya, A., Andersson, L. (2006, November). The effect of clove and benzocaine versus placebo as topical anesthetics. (2006, November). Journal of Dentistry, 34(10), 747-750
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16530911
Jesudasan, J. S., Wahab, P. U., Sekhar, M. R. (2015, November). Effectiveness of 0. 2% chlorhexidine gel and a eugenol-based paste on postoperative alveolar osteitis in patients having third molars extracted: a randomised controlled clinical trial. British Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 53(9), 826-30
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26188932?_ga=1.15758838.1975925481.1470393254
Kumar, G., Jalauddin, Md., Purnendu, R., Mohanty, R. & Dileep, C. L. (2013, August). Emerging trends of herbal care in dentistry. Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, 7(8)
jcdr.net/ReadXMLFile.aspx?id=3282
Recovering from oral surgery. (2009)
deltadentalins.com/oral_health/oral_surgery.html
Shende, P. K., Gaud, R. S., Bakal, R., & Yeole, Y. (2016, April 22). Clove oil emulsified buccal patch of serratiopeptidase for controlled release in toothache. Journal of Bioequivalence & Bioavailability, 8, 134-139. Retrieved from
omicsonline.org/open-access/clove-oil-emulsified-buccal-patch-of-serratiopeptidase-for-controlledrelease-in-toothache-jbb-1000283. php?aid=71743
Stea, S., Beraudi, A., & Pasquale, D. D. (2014). Essential oils for complementary treatment of surgical patients: State of the art. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Retrieved from
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3953654/
Taher, Y. A., Samud, A. M., El-Taher, F. E., Ben-Hussin, G., Elmezogi, J. S., Al-Mehdawi, B. F., & Salem, H. A. (2015). Experimental evaluation of anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive and antipyretic activities of clove oil in mice. Libyan Journal of Medicine, 10(1)
ajol.info/index.php/ljm/article/view/122923

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

Mar 30, 2019

Written By

Kimberly Holland

Edited By

Elizabeth Donovan

Feb 23, 2017

Medically Reviewed By

Debra Rose Wilson, PhD, MSN, RN, IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT

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Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph. D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT — By Kimberly Holland — Updated on March 30, 2019

Clove Oil for Toothache: Does It Work?

Clove Oil for Toothache: Does It Work?

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Psoriasis

Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph. D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT — By Kimberly Holland — Updated on March 30, 2019

Getting temporary relief

Today, instead of grinding cloves, we use clove oil. Clove oil is the extracted, concentrated product from the plant. Read on for instructions on using clove oil.

Trying to use clove oil for the first time?

You’ll need:

a bottle of clove oil or powder
cotton swab or cotton ball
carrier oil (such as coconut oil, almond oil, or olive oil)
a small dish

You can also use clove powder meant for baking, but clove oil is more effective.