15 Natural Toothache Remedies for Fast Pain Relief

Understanding Toothaches: Why They Happen

Common Causes of Toothaches

Toothaches can strike anyone, from kids to seniors, and the pain can range from a mild annoyance to a debilitating throb. Understanding why they happen is the first step to finding relief. Common causes include:

• Tooth Decay: Bacteria erode enamel, creating cavities.
• Gum Disease: Gingivitis or periodontitis causes inflammation.
• Erupting Teeth: Wisdom teeth can cause discomfort.
• Cracked Teeth: Trauma exposes sensitive areas.
• Sinus Infections: Pressure mimics tooth pain.

A toothache often signals an underlying issue with your teeth or gums. One of the most common causes is tooth decay, where bacteria erode the enamel, creating cavities that expose the sensitive inner layers of the tooth. If left untreated, this can lead to an abscess, a painful infection at the tooth’s root. Untreated cavities affect over roughly 35% of adults globally, often leading to toothaches.

Another frequent culprit is gum disease, like gingivitis or periodontitis, which causes inflammation and soreness around the teeth. If you have young ones,  natural toothache remedies for kids are often needed due to erupting teeth, such as wisdom teeth, which can push against other teeth, causing discomfort. Cracked or chipped teeth from trauma—like biting down on something hard—can also trigger pain, as can loose fillings or dental restorations that expose sensitive areas. Sinus infections can mimic toothache pain, especially in the upper teeth, due to pressure on the roots. Lastly, habits like teeth grinding (bruxism) can wear down the enamel, leading to sensitivity and pain.

For readers of all ages, recognizing these causes helps you decide when to try natural toothache remedies and when to seek professional help. A toothache might start as a minor irritation, but ignoring it can lead to more significant problems—like infections that spread beyond your mouth. Let’s say your child complains of pain after eating candy; it could be a cavity starting to form. Or maybe you’re an adult clenching your jaw during stressful days—bruxism might be the cause. Either way, understanding the root of the pain empowers you to take action.

When to See a Dentist

While natural remedies for toothache relief at home can provide temporary relief, they’re not a cure for underlying issues. Some signs to see a dentist include:

• Persistent Pain: Lasts more than 2 days.
• Swelling or Fever: Indicates an infection.
• Severe Pain: Interferes with daily activities.
• Visible Damage: Cracked tooth or dark spot.

If your toothache lasts over two days, it’s time to make an appointment. Persistent pain often signals a deeper problem, like an infection or advanced decay, that needs professional treatment. The Canadian Dental Association recommends seeing a dentist if you experience swelling, fever, or a foul taste in your mouth—these could indicate an abscess that requires immediate care (CDA, 2017).

Severe pain that interferes with eating, sleeping, or daily activities is another red flag. For example, if you’re waking up at night because the pain is unbearable, don’t wait—call your dentist. Visible damage, like a cracked tooth or dark spot, also warrants a visit, as does pain accompanied by swelling around the gums or jaw. If you’ve recently had an injury—like a fall that chipped a tooth—see a dentist to check for hidden damage. For kids, toothache relief with garlic might help temporarily, but if the pain persists, a dentist can ensure their developing teeth aren’t at risk.

Ignoring a toothache can lead to serious complications. An untreated infection can spread to your jaw, sinuses, or even your bloodstream, posing a rare but serious health risk. A 2023 report from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research notes that if left untreated, dental infections can contribute to systemic health issues like diabetes or heart disease (NIDCR, 2023). So, while natural remedies can ease the pain, they’re a bridge to professional care, not a replacement. Think of it like putting a bandage on a cut—it helps for now, but you might still need stitches.

Extra Insight: Toothaches can sometimes be a warning sign of non-dental issues, like stress or poor nutrition. Chronic stress can lead to bruxism, while a diet low in calcium and vitamin D can weaken enamel, making your teeth more prone to decay. Addressing these root causes—like practicing stress-relief techniques or adding more dairy to your diet—can prevent future toothaches, giving you a proactive way to enhance your oral health.

How Natural Remedies Can Help with Toothache Pain

The Science Behind Natural Pain Relief

Natural remedies have been used for centuries to ease toothache pain, and modern science is starting to back up their effectiveness. How They Work:

• Saltwater Rinse: Reduces inflammation and kills bacteria.
• Clove Oil: Numbs pain with eugenol.
• Garlic: Fights infection with allicin.
• Peppermint Tea: Cools and numbs with menthol.

Many of these remedies target the root causes of pain: inflammation, bacterial growth, and nerve sensitivity. For example, a saltwater rinse reduces inflammation by drawing out fluids from swollen gums, supported by a 2016 study that found saltwater promotes gum healing (PlosOne, 2016). Salt acts as a natural disinfectant, killing bacteria that might be causing an infection, which is often the source of toothache pain.

Clove oil, another popular remedy, contains eugenol, a compound with natural anesthetic and anti-inflammatory properties. A 2006 study showed that eugenol can be as effective as benzocaine, a common numbing agent in dental gels, in reducing tooth pain (Journal of Dentistry, 2006). This makes clove oil for toothache relief a go-to option for many. Similarly, garlic’s allicin—a natural antibiotic—can fight infection and reduce pain, while peppermint’s menthol has a cooling effect that numbs the area, providing temporary relief.

These remedies don’t just mask pain; they gently address the underlying issues. For instance, hydrogen peroxide kills harmful bacteria and reduces plaque, which can help if an infection causes your toothache. Green tea contains epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), which early studies suggest may help protect eroded enamel, a common cause of sensitivity (WebMD, 2024). Natural toothache remedies offer a safe alternative to over-the-counter medications for readers of all ages, especially for those who prefer to avoid synthetic drugs or have sensitivities to them.

Benefits of Using Natural Remedies

Why Choose Natural Remedies:

• Accessibility: Ingredients like salt, garlic, and cloves are often in your kitchen.
• Safety: Fewer side effects than some medications.
• Cost-Effective: Cheaper than dental gels or painkillers.
• Holistic Benefits: Supports overall oral health.

Why choose natural remedies for toothache relief at home over conventional options? First, they’re accessible—most ingredients, like salt, garlic, or cloves, are already in your kitchen. This makes them a quick solution when a toothache strikes unexpectedly, like on a weekend when your dentist’s office is closed. Second, they’re generally safe for all ages when used correctly. A saltwater rinse, for example, is gentle enough for kids but effective for adults, making it a versatile option for families.

Natural remedies also come with fewer side effects compared to some medications. Over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen can cause stomach upset or other issues if overused, while clove oil or peppermint tea are less likely to cause adverse reactions when used in moderation. They’re also cost-effective—buying a bottle of clove oil is often cheaper than repeated purchases of dental gels, and it lasts longer. Plus, many of these remedies have additional health benefits. Garlic, for instance, boosts your immune system, while green tea is packed with antioxidants that support overall wellness.

Natural remedies offer a holistic approach for readers trying to enhance their oral health. They relieve pain and promote a healthier mouth environment by reducing bacteria and inflammation. Let’s say you’re a parent dealing with a child’s toothache—using peppermint tea for a toothache can soothe their pain while introducing them to a healthy habit. Or, if you’re an adult looking to avoid chemicals, these remedies align with a natural lifestyle. They empower you to take control of your oral health in a gentle, effective, and sustainable way.

Extra Insight: Natural remedies can also serve as a mindfulness practice. Preparing a saltwater rinse or brewing peppermint tea forces you to slow down and focus on self-care, which can reduce stress—a known contributor to teeth grinding and tooth pain. This dual benefit of pain relief and relaxation makes natural remedies a powerful tool for both your oral and mental health.

Our Top 15 Natural Toothache Remedies to Try

Saltwater Rinse

How It Works: A saltwater rinse is one of the simplest and most effective natural toothache remedies you can try.

Benefits:

• Reduces Inflammation: Draws out fluids from swollen gums.
• Kills Bacteria: Acts as a natural disinfectant.

Salt acts as a natural disinfectant, killing bacteria in your mouth that might be causing an infection. It also reduces inflammation by drawing out fluids from swollen gums, providing quick relief. Saltwater rinsing promotes gum healing by reducing inflammation and aiding cell migration, a key process in wound repair.

To make a saltwater rinse, mix half a teaspoon of table salt into 8 ounces of warm water. Swish the solution around your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit it out—don’t swallow it. You can repeat this every few hours as needed. This remedy is safe for readers of all ages, from kids to seniors, and it’s beneficial if food particles get stuck between your teeth, causing toothaches or mild gum irritation. For example, if you’ve just eaten popcorn and feel a sharp pain, a saltwater rinse can dislodge the debris and ease the discomfort.

I’ve used this remedy when a piece of food got stuck between the molars, causing a nagging ache. After a few rinses, the pain subsided, and I felt relief knowing I was also cleaning my mouth naturally. It’s a go-to solution for many because it’s so easy to prepare—you likely have salt and water on hand right now. Plus, it’s gentle enough for daily use, making it a staple in natural dental care.

Clove Oil

How It Works: Clove oil is a powerhouse when it comes to clove oil for toothache relief.

Benefits:

• Numbing Effect: Contains eugenol, a natural anesthetic.
• Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces swelling and pain.

Cloves have been used for centuries in traditional medicine, particularly in Ayurveda, to treat tooth pain. The secret lies in eugenol, a compound with natural anesthetic, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. Eugenol can be as effective as benzocaine, a common numbing agent in dental gels, in reducing tooth pain (Journal of Dentistry, 2006).

To use clove oil, dilute a few drops with a carrier oil like olive oil (15 drops per ounce of carrier oil) to avoid irritation. Soak a cotton ball in the mixture and apply it to the painful tooth or gums for 5–10 minutes. You can also chew a whole clove to release its oil, holding it against the affected area until the pain subsides. Be cautious—clove oil can be potent, so don’t swallow it, and avoid using it on children under 2.

Clove oil works wonders for sharp, throbbing pain. Imagine you’re a teen who just got braces, and the pressure is causing a toothache. Applying clove oil can numb the area, giving you relief until your orthodontist appointment. It’s also great for adults with a sudden cavity flare-up. The antibacterial properties help fight infection, while the numbing effect eases the ache, making it a must-have in your natural remedy toolkit.

Cold Compress

How It Works: A cold compress is a simple yet effective way to reduce natural toothache remedies for swelling.

Benefits:

• Reduces Swelling: Constricts blood vessels.
• Numbs Pain: Cools the area for relief.

Cold constricts blood vessels, which helps reduce inflammation and numb the area, providing quick pain relief. This remedy is especially useful if your toothache is caused by trauma—like biting down on something hard—or if you’re experiencing swelling around the tooth or gums.

To use a cold compress, wrap an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas in a thin cloth to avoid direct contact with your skin, which can irritate. Apply it to the outside of your cheek near the painful area for 15–20 minutes. Take a break for at least 10 minutes before reapplying to prevent skin damage. You can repeat this throughout the day as needed. The University of Michigan recommends using a cold compress for 10 minutes per hour, but adjust based on your comfort level (Colgate, 2024).

This remedy was helpful after accidentally biting into a hard candy, which left my tooth throbbing. The cold compress dulled the pain and reduced the swelling, making it easier to eat and sleep. It’s a safe option for readers of all ages, though kids might need supervision to ensure they don’t apply it too long. If you’re dealing with a swollen jaw from a toothache, this can be a lifesaver until you see a dentist.

Peppermint Tea

How It Works: Peppermint tea is a soothing peppermint tea for toothache remedy that combines a pleasant taste with pain-relieving properties.

Benefits:

• Cooling Effect: Menthol numbs the area.
• Antibacterial: Fights bacteria causing pain.

Peppermint contains menthol, which has a cooling effect that numbs the area, reducing discomfort. Menthol also has antibacterial properties, helping to fight bacteria that might be contributing to your toothache.

To use peppermint tea, boil one teaspoon of dried peppermint leaves in a cup of water for 20 minutes. Let it cool to a lukewarm temperature, then swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out or swallowing. Alternatively, you can place a slightly warm, wet peppermint tea bag against the painful tooth for a few minutes. For extra relief, chill the tea bag in the freezer first if you’re not sensitive to cold. This method is gentle enough for kids and adults, making it a family-friendly option.

Peppermint tea has been my go-to during late-night toothaches when I couldn’t sleep. The cooling sensation calmed the throbbing, and sipping tea was relaxing, helping me unwind. For readers looking to enhance their oral health, peppermint tea also freshens breath and supports gum health, adding an extra benefit to this remedy.

Garlic

How It Works: Garlic is a potent toothache relief with garlic remedy thanks to its natural antibiotic properties.

Benefits:

• Antibacterial: Allicin fights infection.
• Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces swelling.

Garlic contains allicin, a compound released when it is crushed. This compound fights bacteria and reduces inflammation, making garlic effective for toothaches caused by infections or bacterial buildup.

To use garlic, crush a clove and mix it with a pinch of salt to enhance its antibacterial effects. Apply the paste directly to the painful tooth or gums, leaving it on for a few minutes before rinsing. You can chew a clove and hold it against the affected area if the taste is too strong. Be sure to brush your teeth afterward to remove the garlic odour. Garlic is safe for most people, but avoid overusing it, as it can irritate your gums if left on too long.

Garlic has been applied during a toothache that intensified after a long day, delivering almost immediate relief. The initial slight sting transitioned into a numbing sensation, providing reassurance that a potential infection was being addressed. For readers of all ages, garlic offers a powerful option, though children might favor milder remedies due to its strong taste. It serves as a natural method to address pain and bacteria, promoting overall oral health.

Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse

How It Works: A hydrogen peroxide rinse is an effective remedy for toothaches caused by infections or plaque buildup.

Benefits:

• Kills Bacteria: Reduces infection.
• Soothes Gums: Eases inflammation.

Hydrogen peroxide kills harmful bacteria, reduces plaque, and soothes inflamed gums, relieving pain and swelling. It’s particularly useful if your toothache is accompanied by bleeding gums or a foul taste, which can indicate an infection.

To make a hydrogen peroxide rinse, mix equal parts of 3% hydrogen peroxide and water—never use it undiluted, as it can irritate your mouth. Swish the solution around for 30 seconds, then spit it out, ensuring you don’t swallow it. Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water afterward to remove any residue. This remedy is best for adults and older children, as younger kids might accidentally swallow it.

This can be a helpful rinse when a toothache comes with gum soreness, likely from plaque buildup. After a few rinses, the pain eased, and gums should feel less tender. For readers looking for home remedies for toothache infection, hydrogen peroxide is a strong choice. It relieves pain and promotes a cleaner mouth environment, supporting your oral health goals.

Thyme Essential Oil

How It Works: Thyme essential oil is a lesser-known but powerful remedy for toothache relief.

Benefits:

• Antiseptic: Thymol fights bacteria.
• Numbing Effect: Eases pain.

Thyme contains thymol, which has antiseptic, antifungal, and antibacterial properties. These properties make it effective against the bacteria causing tooth pain. Thymol also has a mild numbing effect, helping to ease discomfort.

How to Use Thyme Safely

To use thyme, dilute a few drops of thyme essential oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil (1 drop per teaspoon of carrier oil) to avoid irritation. Apply the mixture to a cotton ball and dab it on the painful tooth or gums. Alternatively, you can make a mouthwash by adding one drop of thyme oil to a glass of water, swishing for 30 seconds, and spitting it out. Don’t swallow the mixture, and avoid using it on young children due to its potency.

Thyme has been a surprising discovery for me during a toothache that wouldn’t quit. The slight tingling sensation turned into relief, and I appreciated its natural approach. For readers of all ages, thyme offers a unique way to fight infection and pain, though it’s best for adults or older teens due to its strength. It’s a great addition to your natural dental care routine.

Ginger

How It Works: Ginger is a versatile remedy for toothache pain, thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Benefits:

• Reduces Swelling: Eases inflammation.
• Numbing Effect: Provides quick relief.

It can reduce swelling and fight bacteria, making it effective for toothaches caused by gum inflammation or infection. Ginger also has a mild numbing effect, providing quick relief.

To use ginger, slice a fresh piece and bite down gently near the affected tooth, allowing the juice to coat the area. Chew for about 5 minutes, then rinse your mouth. If fresh ginger isn’t available, mix the ginger powder with water to form a paste and apply it with a cotton ball. Ginger is safe for most people, though its spicy taste might be too strong for young kids.

Ginger is great to use during a toothache that comes with gum swelling, and the warmth of the spice should feel soothing while the pain eases. Ginger is a fantastic option for readers looking for natural toothache remedies for swelling. It’s also a healthy addition to your diet, supporting overall wellness while tackling tooth pain.

Vanilla Extract

How It Works: Vanilla extract offers a sweet way to ease toothache pain.

Benefits:

• Pain Relief: Alcohol numbs the area.
• Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces swelling.

It contains alcohol, which acts as a natural pain reliever and has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce swelling. Vanilla is also calming, making it a comforting remedy for a throbbing tooth.

To use vanilla extract, apply 2–3 drops directly to the painful tooth or gums using a cotton ball. You can repeat this a few times a day as needed. It’s safe for most people, though the alcohol content makes it unsuitable for young children. The pleasant taste makes it a favourite for those who dislike stronger flavours like garlic or clove.

Vanilla extract can be a lifesaver during a late-night toothache when other remedies are not available. The sweet scent and mild numbing effect help relax and sleep. For readers of all ages, vanilla extract is a gentle toothache relief without medication option, perfect for those who prefer a milder approach.

Guava Leaves

How It Works: Guava leaves are a traditional remedy with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, effectively relieving toothache.

Benefits:

• Reduces Swelling: Eases gum inflammation.
• Fights Bacteria: Promotes healing.

They can reduce gum swelling and fight bacteria, helping to alleviate pain and promote healing.

To use guava leaves, chew a few fresh leaves until the juice coats the painful area, or boil crushed leaves in water to make a mouthwash. Swish the cooled solution for 30 seconds, then spit it out. This remedy is safe for all ages, though kids might need help preparing the mouthwash. Guava leaves are a great choice for readers looking to enhance their oral health naturally.

Using guava leaves, the relief might be noticeable within minutes. For readers seeking natural toothache remedies for kids, guava leaves are a gentle, effective option. They also support gum health, making them a holistic addition to oral care.

Wheatgrass

How It Works: Wheatgrass is packed with healing properties, including anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects.

Benefits:

• Fights Bacteria: Chlorophyll reduces infection.
• Reduces Inflammation: Eases pain.

It’s rich in chlorophyll, which fights bacteria, making it a great remedy for toothaches caused by infections or decay. Wheatgrass also supports overall oral health by reducing inflammation.

To use wheatgrass, swish the juice in your mouth for a few seconds before spitting it out or chew fresh wheatgrass to release its juices. Repeat this a few times a day. It’s safe for most people, though the taste might be an acquired one for kids.

I’ve tried wheatgrass juice during a toothache that came with gum soreness, and it felt refreshing while easing the pain. Wheatgrass is a powerful choice for readers looking for home remedies for toothache infections. It’s also a nutrient-dense addition to your diet, supporting your overall health.

Cucumber

How It Works: Cucumber offers a cooling effect that can soothe toothache pain, especially if your gums are inflamed.

Benefits:

• Cools Pain: Reduces discomfort.
• Hemostatic: Shrinks blood flow to the area.

It also has hemostatic properties, which can reduce blood flow to the painful area, helping to shrink the ache.

To use cucumber, slice a chilled cucumber and place a piece directly on the affected tooth or gums. Alternatively, mash the cucumber with a pinch of salt to form a paste and apply it to the area. This remedy is safe for all ages and has a mild taste that kids often enjoy.

Onions

How It Works: Onions have antibacterial and antiseptic properties, making them effective for toothache relief.

Benefits:

• Antibacterial: Fights infection.
• Antiseptic: Heals the area.

They can help control pain and heal the affected area, especially if an infection is present.

To use onions, slice a raw onion, place a piece on the painful tooth, or chew it to release its juices. You can also mash the onion with a pinch of salt and apply the paste to the area. Onions are safe for most people, though the taste might be strong for kids.

Acupressure

How It Works: Acupressure is a traditional Chinese practice that can help relieve toothache pain by applying pressure to specific points on the body.

Benefits:

• Pain Relief: Stimulates endorphin release.
• Non-Invasive: No ingestion required.

One effective point is the space between your thumb and forefinger, known as the LI4 point, which can trigger the release of endorphins to reduce pain.

To use acupressure, press your thumb into the LI4 point on the opposite hand for 3 minutes, applying firm but gentle pressure. This remedy is safe for most people, though it’s not recommended for pregnant women, as it can stimulate contractions. It’s a great option for readers who prefer non-invasive toothache relief without medication.

Acupressure has been utilized during a toothache that disrupted sleep at night, with the pressure providing a distraction that effectively dulled the pain. For readers of all ages, acupressure presents a unique method to manage discomfort, particularly for those seeking a remedy that avoids ingestion. This simple technique also helps reduce stress, contributing to overall well-being.

Green Tea

How It Works: Green tea contains epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a compound with protective effects against enamel erosion, a common cause of tooth sensitivity.

Benefits:

• Protects Enamel: EGCG may improve eroded enamel.
• Antioxidant: Supports oral health.

Early studies suggest EGCG may help improve eroded enamel, making green tea a promising remedy for toothache relief (WebMD, 2024).

To use green tea, brew a cup using one teaspoon of green tea leaves in boiling water for 2 minutes. Let it cool to a lukewarm temperature, then swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out. You can repeat this a few times a day. Green tea is safe in moderation (up to 8 cups daily) and suitable for most ages, though kids might prefer milder flavours.