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Toothache is a painful but common malady that we all have experienced. It is caused when a tooth’s nerve is irritated. Tooth decay and infection are the most common causes of toothaches. Bacteria in your mouth can also cause gum disease and tooth decay which also leads to the dreaded toothache. The pain alone is enough to encourage people to practice good dental hygiene. This is just one instance where prevention is indeed better than the cure. But how about for those who are already experiencing the unbearable pain caused by toothache? Aside from going to the dentist, taking painkillers is the first logical option. What if you don’t have some on hand? A quick trip to the pharmacy is an eternity when you are in pain. In these situations, home remedies are your best friends. Practice good dental hygiene to prevent these situations. But just in case, check out some of these home remedies that you can try.
Salt Water
Salt water has natural disinfectant and anti-inflammatory properties. This is the reason why salt water is the most common treatment people use to soothe toothaches. It also does not hurt that it is the fastest to prepare and apply. Just mix half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of hot water and use it as a mouthwash. Give it a few minutes and you should feel the pain starting to subside.
Cold Compress
If your toothache is caused by swollen gums, placing a cold compress or ice pack against the outside of your cheek over the affected tooth would give you quick relief from the pain. This is because cold temperatures constrict the blood vessels and slowing the blood flow. It numbs the pain, reduces swelling and inflammation. Just like using salt water as a mouthwash, this is quick and easy to apply.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide mixed with water has also been proven to reduce pain and inflammation. Mix 3% hydrogen peroxide with equal parts water and rinse your mouth with it. Do not swallow it.
Garlic
The humble but amazing garlic. Not only does it make our food delicious but it is also a great remedy for toothaches. It has a compound called allicin which has strong antibacterial properties. To prepare, crush a clove of garlic and mix it with a little bit of salt. Apply it on the affected tooth or cavity and experience how drastically it reduces the pain.
