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Toothache Relief: Home Remedies & When to See the Dentist

woman holds an icepack to her jaw to help with a toothache

A mild toothache can quickly turn into an excruciating experience, disrupting daily life and causing discomfort. While it’s essential to seek professional help, home remedies may provide temporary relief. In this blog, we’re sharing three remedies that you can try until you can see a dentist.

Home Remedies for Toothache Relief

1. Saltwater Rinse

A simple saltwater rinse can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain by reducing bacteria. Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out.

2. Clove Oil

For years, cloves have been used for pain relief. Clove oil, the extracted, concentrated product from the plant, has natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Apply a small amount of clove oil to a cotton ball and gently place it on the affected tooth for temporary relief.

3. Cold Compress

If your toothache is causing major discomfort, applying a cold compress to the affected area can help numb the pain and reduce swelling. Place a bag of ice or a cold pack wrapped in a thin cloth on the outside of your cheek for 15 minutes at a time.

When to See the Dentist for a Toothache

If the toothache persists for more than a day or two, even after trying one of these home remedies, it’s crucial to see a dentist near you. Persistent pain may be a sign of an underlying dental issue that requires professional attention, like a cavity.

Swelling or pus around the affected tooth should also prompt a dental visit. These effects can indicate an infection. In such cases, immediate dental intervention is necessary to prevent the infection from spreading.

Emergency Dental Care in Southbridge, MA

While home remedies can offer temporary relief, it’s essential to address the root cause of the toothache sooner rather than later. At Southbridge Dental Care, we leave room in our schedule for dental emergencies like severe toothaches that are causing swelling or an infection.

If you’re experiencing persistent or severe toothache symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact our office to get the care you need!

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