Toothaches can come out of nowhere for a variety of reasons. It’s not always easy to see a dentist right away, and if the pain is mild, emergency treatment might not be warranted. Stay as comfortable as possible leading up to your visit by using home remedies. Try the following tips but remember that they’re not replacements for professional care.

Ways to Soothe a Toothache at Home

1. Garlic

Garlic has been used medicinally for centuries. The compound allicin, found in raw cloves, naturally fights bacteria, making it excellent for toothaches. Crush a fresh clove, mix it with rock salt, and then apply the paste to the tooth. Onions have similar antibacterial qualities if you want an alternative.

2. Hydrogen Peroxide

You can eliminate pain-causing bacteria by rinsing your mouth with hydrogen peroxide. Choose 3% hydrogen peroxide and mix it with equal parts water. Swish in your mouth for 30 seconds and spit the solution out, rinsing thoroughly with warm water after. Hydrogen peroxide is dangerous when swallowed, which is why this remedy is unsuitable for children.

3. Cold Compress

Cold temperatures are ideal for numbing pain and reducing inflammation. Apply a cold compress or covered ice pack to your cheek for 15 minutes, remove for 15 minutes, and repeat. If you’re dealing with sensitivity-related pain, the temperature may only cause a flare-up, so consider an alternative.

4. Medication

When all else fails, over-the-counter pain medication can help. Ibuprofen, Tylenol®, and others may help you manage mild pain and reduce swelling. Just ensure you don’t hold the pill against the tooth because it could inflame gum tissue. You can also use numbing gels approved by dentists to help manage pain.

Whether you’re dealing with a toothache or are overdue for an exam, the team at Dental Clinic of Onalaska will assist. These dentists have served their community in La Crosse County, WI, since 1993 and welcome patients of all ages. You’ll find everything from pediatric care and teeth cleaning to cosmetic services, which you can explore on their website. Call (608) 783-3341 to schedule a checkup, and connect on Facebook for news and updates.