Waiting for your dental appointment to treat a toothache can be an uncomfortable time. After all, when you’re in pain, even an hour can feel like a lifetime. If you’re counting the minutes until your visit, here are a few helpful home remedies that can assist you in keeping your tooth discomfort at bay until your dentist can help you.
Saltwater Rinse
Saltwater can not only soothe tooth pain, but it also acts as a natural disinfectant. It can even help loosen food particles and debris in lieu of brushing and flossing and help reduce inflammation. Just add a half teaspoon of salt to a glass of warm water and swish it around just like you would a mouthwash.
Sleeping Upright
Sleep can be difficult when you’re in pain, but if your tooth is bothering you, try elevating your head. This will alleviate some of the blood pressure in your head that increases when you lie flat, and hopefully lessen the discomfort in your tooth.
Vanilla
Vanilla extract sometimes works as a numbing agent if applied directly to a painful area in your mouth. Just add a dab of it to a cotton swab and blot it gently onto the spot several times a day.
Tea Bags
Tea bags (especially peppermint) act as a compress of sorts. You can apply them directly to a tooth either warm or cold. For cold, just place them in the freezer for a few minutes before applying. Be aware, however, that tea can stain your teeth, so don’t use this method too often and rinse your mouth with water or saltwater when you’re done.
Garlic
Garlic is not only a pain reliever, but it also fights bacteria. You can apply it directly to the affected tooth by either creating a paste of mashed garlic, by chewing on a garlic clove, or by applying garlic oil directly to the injured area with a cotton swab.
Remember, your dentist will do their best to see you as soon as possible. In the meantime, follow their care instructions, try an over-the-counter pain medicine, or test out any of these all-natural remedies for greater relief.
About Dr. Greer
Dr. Dale Greer is truly one of the best dentists in America! That’s probably why his patients have voted him so, along with being voted “One of the best Dentists in Dallas” by D Magazine! Dr. Greer is also an Accredited Member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, one of only six in Dallas and 488 in the entire world!
To schedule an urgent appointment with Dr. Greer, please visit our website or call us today at 972-233-4546.
