Can whiskey actually numb a toothache. Is clove oil an effective natural painkiller for dental pain. Which home remedies provide real relief for tooth pain and which are myths. Discover evidence-based solutions for toothache management

The Truth About Popular Toothache Home Remedies

When tooth pain strikes, many people turn to home remedies in search of relief. But which of these popular DIY solutions actually work? Let’s examine some common toothache remedies and separate fact from fiction.

Clove Oil: Nature’s Numbing Agent

Clove oil has long been touted as a natural remedy for dental pain. But does it really work? The short answer is yes, but with some caveats.

• Contains eugenol, a natural painkiller
• Causes numbness upon contact
• Can provide temporary relief from pain and swelling
• Does not address the underlying cause of toothache
• May irritate gum tissue if used undiluted

To use clove oil safely, dilute it with water and apply it to the affected area using a clean tissue or cotton pellet. While it can offer short-term relief, it’s important to remember that clove oil is not a substitute for professional dental care.

Peppermint Tea Bags: A Cool Solution?

Peppermint tea bags are another popular home remedy for toothaches. But how effective are they?

• Contains menthol, which can provide a numbing effect
• Safe to use and easily accessible
• Offers temporary relief
• Does not address the root cause of dental pain

To try this method, simply cool a peppermint tea bag in your refrigerator and apply it to the painful area for about 20 minutes. While it may provide some comfort, like clove oil, it’s only a temporary solution.

Salt Water Rinse: Simple Yet Effective

Among the various home remedies, a salt water rinse stands out as one of the safest and most effective options. How does it work?

• Helps loosen debris in the mouth
• Can flush out infected areas
• Provides temporary relief
• Safe to use multiple times a day

To create a salt water rinse, mix 1 teaspoon of salt with one cup of warm water. Gargle the solution for about 30 seconds before spitting it out. This simple remedy can be repeated several times a day as needed.

Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse: A Step Up from Salt Water?

Some believe that a hydrogen peroxide rinse is superior to salt water due to its antibacterial properties. Is this true?

• Can cleanse infected areas
• Has antibacterial properties
• Must be diluted to avoid irritation
• Should not be swallowed

To use hydrogen peroxide safely, mix 3% hydrogen peroxide with water in a 1:1 ratio. Gargle the mixture for 30 seconds, being careful not to swallow. While it may offer some benefits, it’s important to use caution with this remedy.

The Whiskey Myth: Does Alcohol Really Help Toothaches?

One of the most persistent myths about toothache remedies involves using alcohol, particularly whiskey, to numb dental pain. But is there any truth to this old wives’ tale?

Despite popular belief, there is no scientific evidence to support the use of hard liquor as a toothache remedy. While alcohol may provide a brief numbing sensation, it does not have any proven antibacterial properties that would help with an infection causing the toothache.

Moreover, using alcohol as a mouth rinse can potentially irritate the gums and soft tissues in your mouth, potentially exacerbating the problem. It’s best to avoid this method and seek more effective, evidence-based remedies instead.

Garlic: Nature’s Antibiotic or Just Bad Breath?

Garlic has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various ailments, including toothaches. But does it actually work for dental pain?

• Contains allicin, a natural antibacterial compound
• May provide temporary relief for infection-related tooth pain
• Can cause significant bad breath
• Not a substitute for professional dental treatment

To use garlic as a toothache remedy, mash a clove into a paste and apply it to the affected area. While it may offer some relief, especially if the pain is caused by an infection, it’s important to use this method in moderation due to the strong odor it produces.

Oil Pulling: Ancient Practice or Modern Myth?

Oil pulling has gained popularity in recent years as a natural remedy for various oral health issues, including toothaches. But does science support these claims?

Despite its growing popularity, there is little scientific evidence to support oil pulling as an effective remedy for toothaches. While swishing oil in your mouth may help remove some bacteria, it cannot repair damaged tooth structure or heal infections.

Claims that oil acts like a magnet to pull toxins from the tooth are unfounded. While oil pulling may have some benefits for oral hygiene when used as part of a comprehensive dental care routine, it should not be relied upon as a treatment for toothaches or other dental problems.

Colloidal Silver: A Dangerous Dental Myth

Among the more controversial toothache remedies is the use of colloidal silver. This substance has been touted by some as a cure-all for various ailments, including dental problems. But what does the evidence say?

• No FDA-approved drugs containing silver for oral use
• No proven health benefits for dental issues
• Can cause argyria, a permanent skin discoloration
• Not recommended as a home remedy for toothaches

Despite claims circulating on the internet, there is no scientific evidence supporting the use of colloidal silver for dental health. In fact, ingesting silver can lead to serious health issues. It’s crucial to avoid this remedy and seek professional dental care instead.

When to Seek Professional Dental Care

While home remedies can provide temporary relief for minor tooth pain, it’s important to know when to seek professional help. When should you consult a dentist?

• Severe or persistent pain lasting more than a day or two
• Swelling in the face or jaw
• Fever accompanying tooth pain
• Difficulty opening your mouth or swallowing
• Trauma to the tooth or surrounding area

Remember, toothaches are often a sign of underlying dental issues that require professional treatment. While home remedies can provide temporary relief, they don’t address the root cause of the pain. Regular dental check-ups and prompt attention to dental problems are crucial for maintaining good oral health.

Prevention: The Best Toothache Remedy

How can you prevent toothaches from occurring in the first place? The best approach to dental health is prevention. Here are some key strategies:

1. Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
2. Floss at least once a day
3. Use an antiseptic mouthwash
4. Limit sugary and acidic foods
5. Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
6. Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings

By maintaining good oral hygiene habits and addressing dental issues early, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing painful toothaches.

The Role of Diet in Dental Health

Your diet plays a crucial role in maintaining dental health and preventing toothaches. Which foods should you embrace, and which should you avoid for optimal oral health?

Foods That Promote Dental Health

• Calcium-rich foods (milk, yogurt, cheese)
• Crunchy fruits and vegetables (apples, carrots, celery)
• Green and black teas
• Foods high in vitamin D (fatty fish, egg yolks)
• Sugar-free gum (stimulates saliva production)

Foods to Limit or Avoid

• Sugary snacks and beverages
• Acidic foods and drinks
• Sticky candies
• Ice (chewing on ice can damage teeth)
• Alcohol (can dry out the mouth)

By making mindful choices about your diet, you can help protect your teeth from decay and reduce the likelihood of developing painful toothaches.

The Impact of Stress on Dental Health

Did you know that stress can affect your dental health and contribute to toothaches? Stress can impact your oral health in several ways:

• Teeth grinding (bruxism)
• Neglect of oral hygiene routines
• Increased consumption of sugary or acidic foods
• Weakened immune system, making you more susceptible to oral infections

Managing stress through techniques like meditation, exercise, or counseling can not only improve your overall well-being but also contribute to better dental health.

Stress-Related Dental Issues

Stress can manifest in your mouth in various ways. What are some common stress-related dental problems?

• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
• Canker sores
• Dry mouth
• Gum disease

If you’re experiencing any of these issues, it’s important to address both the dental problem and the underlying stress that may be contributing to it.

The Connection Between Oral Health and Overall Health

Your oral health is more closely linked to your overall health than you might realize. How does dental health impact other aspects of your well-being?

• Cardiovascular health: Gum disease has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease
• Diabetes: People with diabetes are more susceptible to gum disease
• Respiratory health: Poor oral hygiene may increase the risk of respiratory infections
• Pregnancy complications: Gum disease has been associated with premature birth and low birth weight

By maintaining good oral health, you’re not just protecting your teeth and gums – you’re contributing to your overall health and well-being.

The Oral Microbiome

Your mouth is home to a complex ecosystem of bacteria known as the oral microbiome. How does this microbial community impact your dental health?

• Helps maintain a balanced pH in the mouth
• Aids in the breakdown of food particles
• Protects against harmful bacteria
• Can be disrupted by poor oral hygiene, leading to tooth decay and gum disease

Maintaining a healthy oral microbiome through good dental hygiene practices is crucial for preventing toothaches and other dental problems.

Dental Anxiety: Overcoming Fear for Better Oral Health

Dental anxiety is a common issue that can prevent people from seeking necessary dental care, potentially leading to more severe toothaches and oral health problems. How can you overcome dental anxiety?

• Communicate your fears with your dentist
• Ask about sedation options for more comfortable treatments
• Practice relaxation techniques before and during appointments
• Consider cognitive-behavioral therapy to address deep-seated fears
• Start with short, simple dental visits to build confidence

Remember, modern dentistry has come a long way in making procedures more comfortable and pain-free. By addressing your dental anxiety, you can ensure that you receive the care you need to prevent and treat toothaches effectively.

The Importance of Regular Dental Check-ups

Regular dental check-ups are crucial for maintaining good oral health and preventing toothaches. What are the benefits of routine dental visits?

• Early detection of dental issues
• Professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar
• Opportunity to discuss oral hygiene practices with your dentist
• Monitoring of changes in your oral health over time
• Prevention of more serious dental problems

By staying on top of your dental check-ups, you can catch potential issues before they develop into painful toothaches, saving you discomfort and potentially costly treatments in the long run.

The Future of Dental Care: Emerging Technologies and Treatments

The field of dentistry is constantly evolving, with new technologies and treatments emerging to improve oral health care. What innovations are on the horizon for dental care?

• 3D-printed dental implants and crowns
• AI-assisted diagnosis and treatment planning
• Stem cell therapies for tooth regeneration
• Advanced imaging techniques for more precise treatments
• Smart toothbrushes with real-time feedback

These advancements promise to make dental care more efficient, effective, and comfortable, potentially reducing the incidence of toothaches and other dental problems.

Personalized Dental Care

The future of dentistry is moving towards more personalized care. How might this impact toothache prevention and treatment?

• Genetic testing to identify individuals at higher risk for certain dental issues
• Customized oral care products based on individual needs
• Tailored treatment plans considering a patient’s overall health profile
• Precision medicine approaches for dental diseases

By tailoring dental care to individual needs, we may see more effective prevention and treatment of toothaches and other oral health issues in the future.

The Lowdown on Toothache Home Remedies » Raffles Dental, Singapore

If you do a quick search on the Internet for “DIY toothache remedies”, you will find dozens of results touting to kill tooth pain. However, how effective are they, and do they work?
We give you the lowdown on some of the most popular DIY remedies and their effectiveness:

Clove Oil

How it’s used: Dilute the clove oil with water and dip a small piece of clean tissue or cotton pellet into the oil mixture. Gently squeeze the excess clove oil from the tissue or cotton pellet, and apply it onto your painful tooth or gum.

Does it work?

Clove oil contains eugenol, a natural painkiller that causes numbness upon contact. Although this can relieve the pain and swelling, its effect is only temporary. It does not remove the cause of toothache like tooth decay, gum diseases, or a cracked tooth. Also, it can irritate the gum tissues if used undiluted.

Peppermint Tea Bag

How it’s used: Cool the peppermint tea bag in your refrigerator, and apply it onto the painful area. Leave it for about 20 minutes. Repeat if the pain returns.

Does it work?

Peppermint tea contains menthol, which can ease toothaches, similar to clove oil. It is safe to use, but the numbing effect is temporary and it cannot remove the cause of pain.

Salt Water Rinse

How it’s used: Mix 1 teaspoon of salt (about 5g) with one cup of warm water (about 250ml). Then, gargle the solution for about 30 seconds before spitting it out. Do not swallow the solution. You can repeat this several times a day if needed. 

Does it work?

Salt water rinse can help to loosen the debris in your mouth and flush the infected areas, providing temporary relief. It is the safest DIY remedy that you can try.

Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse

How it’s used: Mix 3% hydrogen peroxide with water in 1:1 ratio, and gargle the mixture for 30 seconds.

Does it work?

Hydrogen peroxide rinse can also cleanse the infected area. It is also believed that hydrogen peroxide is better than salt water because of its superior antibacterial effect.
Do not use hydrogen peroxide undiluted, as you risk irritating or burning your soft tissues. Avoid swallowing it as well, as it can cause throat burning, vomiting, or abdominal pain. If swallowed by children, it may cause severe poisoning too.

Alcohol Rinse

How it’s used: It is believed that you can relieve tooth pain by taking a large sip of hard liquor such as whiskey and gargle it in your mouth for a few minutes before spitting it out. You can also hold the liquor in your mouth, near the affected tooth. The alcohol is supposed to reduce the toothache by numbing the area.

Does it work?

Many people believe hard liquor can kill bacteria and ease tooth or gum pain. However, it is simply an old wives’ tale. There is no evidence showing that it can clear infections or have any antibacterial properties.

Garlic

How it’s used: Mash the garlic using a mortar or food processor, and then apply the paste onto the painful tooth.

Does it work?

It is commonly assumed that garlic can relieve tooth pain because it contains allicin, a natural bacteria-killing compound. It may give you temporary relief if your tooth pain is caused by an infection. While generally safe, use it in moderation as you will get bad breath from it.

Oil Pulling

How it’s used: It is done by swishing a tablespoon of oil (typically coconut, olive or sesame oil) in the mouth with empty stomach for 20 minutes.

Does it work?

It is widely believed that oil pulling can relieve toothache by detoxifying the mouth and removing the infection. Some articles on the Internet claim that the oil acts like a magnet, literally pulling the bacteria and toxins out from the tooth. Also, they believe that the oil can repair the damaged tooth structure.

These are just myths – oil does not heal nor repair infected teeth. It may be a good moisturizer for lips, but definitely not a home remedy for toothache.

Colloidal Silver

How it’s used: First, brush a small amount of colloidal silver onto the troubled tooth with a toothbrush. Next, rinse your mouth with colloidal silver for about 7 to 10 minutes. Repeat this procedure several times throughout the day.  You should also ingest the colloidal silver several times a day, but no more than a total of 8 ounces (230grams) in one day.

Does it work?

There is no evidence proving that it can cure tooth decay. Various Internet sources tout colloidal silver as the simplest and most effective way to heal infected teeth and gums. Regardless of the claims, silver has no health benefit, nor is it an essential mineral for the body.

Furthermore, there are no FDA-approved over-the-counter or prescription drugs containing silver. If taken, it can cause argyria, a permanent bluish-grey discoloration of the skin. In short, colloidal silver is definitely not recommended as home remedy for toothache.

Summing It Up

From green tea powder to activated charcoal, there are many more remedies that people believe can help treat their tooth and gum pain. The truth is, these treatments will only relieve the pain and not eliminate the root cause. In fact, some may even endanger your health! If you experience any tooth or gum pain, these should only be used as temporary pain relief while you fix an appointment with your dentist to get your teeth examined.

7 Best Whiskeys For A Toothache (2023 Updated)

March 1, 2023 4:31 amApril 18, 2023 8:06 am Lydia Martin 39 Views 0 Comments

Last Updated on April 18, 2023 by Lydia Martin

For centuries, drinking whiskey, Scotch, and vodka has been used as a folk remedy for toothaches. 

Alcohol is believed to fight bacteria causing toothache while numbing the pain. And the sweet taste has said to have anti-inflammatory properties, reducing inflammation and tooth infection.

But is whiskey really an effective remedy for dental pain? Can we rely on whiskey as a dental treatment? 

We took the time to investigate and finally found the best whiskey for a toothache.    

Table of Contents

Top 7 Whiskeys Believed To Cure A Toothache 

7. Fireball Cinnamon Whisky

Average Price: roughly $14/750ml (Drizly)

Alcohol Content: 33% ABV 

Why We Like It: This flavored whisky has the lowest ABV on this list, so the numbing reaction won’t be as effective here as in others. 

It can provide temporary relief from tooth pain due to its sweet taste, releasing some anti-inflammatory properties essential to oral health and preventing common and debilitating pain from toothache.   

6. Old Forester Bourbon Whiskey

Average Price: roughly $25/750ml (Drizly)

Alcohol Content: 43% ABV

Why We Like It: Aged for a minimum of six years, Old Forester has a smooth and light flavor, making it an excellent numbing agent to ease toothache.  

“The people that are looking for this kind of remedy are often afraid to go to the dentist.”

— Dr. Matthew J. Messina, Dentist & American Dental Association Spokesperson

Though there’s no scientific evidence to support this claim, at least it helps as an immediate relief or reduces the pain a bit to give you ample time and energy to prepare for a visit to a dentist.  

5. Wild Turkey Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Average Price: roughly $22/750ml (Drizly)

Alcohol Content: 40% ABV

Why We Like It: Wild Turkey is another smooth bourbon that can ease toothaches–but for short-term relief only. 

This isn’t as strong a spirit as any other hard liquor; you can let alcohol disinfect you’re affected tooth to kill germs or disease-causing tooth pain.

If you don’t want to make the pain worse, drinking Wild Turkey helps, but you can also gargle it for a few seconds, like what you did with a saltwater rinse.   

4. Maker’s Mark Bourbon Whiskey

Average Price: roughly $32/750ml (Drizly)

Alcohol Content: 45% ABV

Why We Like It: The subtle sweetness of Maker’s Mark contains anti-inflammatory properties, helping to relieve pain from tooth decay or aching tooth. 

Honestly, this isn’t a permanent solution, but during the pain, we just want anything to alleviate toothache to feel better and have the mood and tolerance to seek a dentist’s help.  

3. Jim Beam Bourbon Whiskey

Average Price: roughly $32/750ml (Drizly)

Alcohol Content: 40% ABV 

Why We Like It: This 8-year-old bourbon (estimated) delivers rich flavors covering the entire mouth with bold notes, providing a good numbing effect on gums and any affected area. 

Most of the old wives’ tale we heard and read through forums–online and offline– claims Jim Beam to be one of the effective home remedies to kill bacteria and treat pain caused by toothache.

2. Knob Creek Bourbon Whiskey

Average Price: roughly $39/750ml (Drizly)

Alcohol Content: 50% ABV 

Why We Like It: Knob Creek isn’t just a drink for sipping or mixing; it’s one of the best whiskey expressions believed to be an effective remedy to your aching tooth.

It can reduce pain if you gargle and spit this spirit. The toothache pain will lessen for some time, helping your gums relax.

If you can swish whiskey of this flavor, then do so, as it can be more effective. 

The longer the alcohol stays on the affected area, the longer the antibacterial properties will fight bacteria causing tooth decay or tooth pain. 

1. Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey

Average Price: roughly $27/750ml (Drizly)

Alcohol Content: 40% ABV 

Why We Like It: Jack Daniel’s is one of the suggested whiskey bottles that can treat toothaches. You can put ice cubes on the glass of JD, then drink it with a bit of swishing while on the mouth.   

Besides drinking and gargling whiskey, some prefer to soak a cotton ball in alcohol to use it as a cold compress for the affected gum and lessen the tooth pain.  

Additionally, the antiseptic properties of Jack Daniel’s help treat toothache or act as pain relief. 

However, it doesn’t guarantee anything, and the effect may vary from one person to another.   

How Do You Use Whiskey To Treat A Toothache? 

Drink It

The most common way of using whiskey to treat tooth pain is by drinking it. But to be an effective pain relief remedy, you better swish the strong spirit around your mouth. 

Gargle & Spit

Like rinsing with salt water, get your chosen whiskey, gargle it for around 10 seconds, and spit afterward. 

Use Cotton Swabs & Dab

For an immediate solution, soak a cotton ball or cotton swab in the whiskey and dab it on the aching area, like a cold compress on the skin. 

Professional’s Tip: For a risk-free home remedy for toothache, you better try using essential oils: tea tree oil, clove oil, nutmeg oil, sunflower oil, sesame oil, and oregano oil.

FAQs

Does whiskey help tooth infections?

Whiskey helps tooth infections temporarily, but you can’t rely on it as the main remedy. Maintaining good oral health requires the guidance of dental professionals, not just pure assumptions.

Can you put whiskey on your gums?

Yes, you can put whiskey on your gums. Use a cotton swab and soak it in whiskey, then dab it on your affected gums to help ease the pain. 

Can whiskey be used as a painkiller?

Whiskey can’t be used as a painkiller alone. It only helps relieve pain but does not totally remove the pain. Whiskey as a remedy for tooth pain is only an immediate or temporary aid. 

Does rubbing whiskey help toothache?

Yes, rubbing whiskey helps in relieving toothache. But rubbing too much may trigger more pain, making the situation of your gums worse. 

What kind of whiskey is good for a toothache?

 The kind of whiskey good for toothache are Scotch and bourbon [1], which helps fight germs and numb the tooth area, providing a little relief.  

In Summary

While there are so many whiskey expressions you can use to help relieve toothache, it doesn’t change the fact that you need to seek help from dental professionals. 

Whiskey [2] can only be a temporary reliever and may not be a reliable treatment for pain. 

Although it really helps get rid of pain in some cases, there are more appropriate remedies to use that are risk-free, like apple cider vinegar and clove oil, among others.  

References:

1. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/food-science/bourbon-whiskey 
2. https://www.britannica.com/topic/whiskey 

If you have a toothache

Toothache often comes on suddenly. And the degree of it can be very different. From minor to unbearable. Many do not know what to do if a tooth hurts, how to properly ease a toothache before visiting the dentist. In this article, we will tell you what to do with a toothache, and what you definitely should not do. But the first and most important rule is to contact a specialist as soon as possible. Otherwise, the pain in most cases will only increase.

Painkillers – “For” and “Against”

Fortunately for contemporaries, today there are a large number of drugs that can significantly ease toothache. Many already know from personal experience which medicines are most suitable for them, and choose them. Of course, it is better to consult a specialist first. But here, too, there are nuances.

Important information: Try not to take painkillers right before you visit the dentist. The fact is that the effect of an anesthetic can significantly weaken the effect of local anesthesia, due to which unpleasant or painful sensations may occur during treatment.

As a rule, toothache worsens in the evening, and also in heat, during exercise and after eating. If the tooth hurts a lot, does not allow you to fall asleep or work normally, it is better to take painkillers. But if the pain is not critical, it is better to refrain from taking drugs.

Many people, because of the fear of going to the dentist, “kill” the pain with pills for days, or even weeks, until it becomes unbearable. Remember: painkillers do not heal, but only dull the nerves for several hours. At the same time, the tooth continues to collapse, and the intervention of the dentist is still inevitable. Therefore, the sooner you contact a dental clinic, the better for you. Moreover, if you delay a visit to a specialist for a long time, this can only provoke additional problems: the development of a purulent process and loss of teeth. Moreover, not only the one that needs treatment, but also neighboring ones.

How can you eliminate or reduce toothache without resorting to painkillers?

If you often hear from your friends “I have a toothache” or have experienced this problem yourself, but do not want to take pills, there are other ways to ease the pain. But remember that this is also only a temporary measure.

First of all, the carious cavity should be cleaned of food residues and kept as clean as possible. And don’t eat on this side.

The following remedies can help relieve toothache:

• Salt water. It is necessary to add a teaspoon of salt to a glass of warm water and mix thoroughly. Next, draw water into your mouth and keep it on the affected side for as long as you can. You need to repeat the procedure several times in a row and several times during the day.
• Carnation. Just chew the petals in the area of ​​the aching tooth. An alternative would be clove oil (literally a couple of drops). Clove has a good analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect.
• Alcohol. Only strong ones are suitable – cognac, vodka, whiskey, etc. Rinse your mouth with alcohol several times and the pain will decrease. Not the most pleasant, but effective way.
• Vanilla extract. Take a cotton swab, blot it with the extract and apply it to the aching tooth. You can also use mint or lemon extract.
• Plantain. Yes, the same remedy for all diseases. Just chew the leaf and apply the gruel to the aching tooth.

These methods of reducing toothache are mainly folk medicine. Yes, to some extent it can reduce pain, but, again, you must understand that we are not talking about treatment. Only a qualified specialist can completely save you from the problem, who will find out the root cause of the pain, prescribe the necessary treatment and carry out all the necessary operations.

Toothache – act decisively

Don’t delay treatment. Yes, in some cases, a toothache may go away after a while, but if a tooth has already bothered you once, then the pain will return again. And, as a rule, with even greater force. If the tooth hurts very much, you should understand that in this case the pain will not go away on its own. Of course, you can use our recommendations above, but do not forget that this is only a temporary measure that eliminates the symptoms, but not the root cause.

If you have a toothache , the sooner you see a dentist, the less time-consuming and expensive the treatment will be. Many people are prevented from going to the dentist in a timely manner by the fear of severe pain, but we are ready to guarantee that you will not feel any painful or unpleasant sensations. But get rid of even the strongest toothache immediately.

Perhaps we are now talking about common truths, but health problems need to be addressed immediately! Especially with teeth, because they are not restored, and if you lose your teeth, you will have to install expensive prostheses and implants. And that takes time and a lot of money. Therefore, if your teeth are already bothering you, you can use the described remedies to reduce pain, but do not forget that going to the dentist is still inevitable.

What should I do if I have a toothache? First self-help before contacting a dentistry clinic

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If you have had a toothache at least once in your life, then you definitely remember this vivid and incomparable sensation. It is impossible to concentrate and think about something else, because the pain absorbs all thoughts and feelings, leaving the only desire: to get rid of it as soon as possible.

There can be many reasons for this condition: neglected caries, pulpitis, periodontitis, exposed neck of the tooth, crack, improperly placed or fallen filling.

If it happens during the day, then the solution is simple and logical – go to a good dental clinic as soon as possible, where the doctor can find the cause of the pain and eliminate it. Not without reason, in such medical institutions, patients with similar symptoms are admitted out of turn and without an appointment.

Primary self-help

But sometimes a tooth suddenly reminds of itself: on the road, on vacation, in the late evening, when there is no possibility to immediately consult a doctor, as well as the strength to endure further. In such a situation, you can use the tips for express fight against toothache:

• Rinse. Warm rinsing helps to clean the aching tooth from food particles, plaque and bacteria. The most effective recipes: a solution of soda or salt, a few drops of iodine or a tablet of furacilin in a glass of water, a light pink solution of potassium permanganate. Infusions of herbs also help well: chamomile, peppermint, sage, calendula, calamus individually or in a mixture. You need to rinse every time after eating, as well as every hour. Also, from the infusions of these herbs, you can make baths for 15-20 minutes.
• Dental floss. You can try to gently clean the interdental space during the period of pain relief with dental floss.
• Clove oil. A drop of this oil with an ear stick should be applied to the aching tooth.
• Strong alcohol . If there are no contraindications, you can rinse your mouth with vodka, whiskey, cognac or any other strong alcohol. The gums will absorb some of the alcohol, which will dull the pain.
• Painkiller. You can drink any over-the-counter pain medication according to the scheme indicated in the annotation.
• Massage. You can try to massage the area between the index and thumb from the side of the diseased tooth or the top of the auricle for 3-5 minutes.

These steps will help ease your pain enough to allow you to wait for the dental clinics to open.

It is important to remember that neither these nor any other express methods will save you from the cause, so without a visit to the dentist, the tooth will remind you of itself again and again.

What not to do

There is a lot of “bad” advice that will only worsen the situation. So, what not to do:

1. Do not heat. Never apply heating pads, scarves, compresses, warming tampons, and so on to an aching tooth.
2. Do not apply tablets. You can often find advice to put an aspirin tablet on a bad tooth, but this can only cause a chemical burn.
3. Do not take antibiotics. In the treatment of certain dental diseases, doctors often use antibiotics. But only a specialist can develop an effective and correct scheme for their administration.

What to do in the morning

When the long-awaited morning comes or you return from a trip, you should immediately contact a good dental clinic.