Home Treat a Toothache or Any Minor Mouth Infection

A toothache is usually the result of poor dental hygiene, tooth cavities or decay, and injuries to the jaw or mouth. Sometimes, pain that's felt in the tooth is actually due to pain in other parts of the body, also known as referred pain. For example, an earache or nasal infection can sometimes cause tooth pain. Observing proper dental hygiene and getting regular dental checkups can make your toothache more manageable and reduce your chance of developing toothaches and other minor mouth infections in the future. Keep in mind that the following home treatments may help you deal with and treat the temporary pain of a toothache or other mouth problem, but the underlying cause of the toothache will still be there and, if not treated, could worsen. It's best you consult your dentist immediately if you experience a toothache.

Steps

Home-Treating Toothaches

1. Apply first-aid to an injury. Injuries to the jaw can result in the loss or damage of teeth, which may lead to severe toothache. If you or someone you know has experienced an injury such as a fractured or dislocated jaw, you should call 911 or seek medical care immediately. Temporarily bandaging the jaw around the top of the head or holding it gently in place with your hands until you get medical care is recommended. Do not attempt to correct the position of the jaw yourself. Signs of a broken or dislocated jaw after sustaining injury include:
   • Jaw tenderness or pain, worse with biting or chewing
   • Loose or damaged teeth
   • Teeth that do not line up properly
   • Facial swelling or bruising
   • Difficulty moving the mouth or jaw
   • Emergency symptoms (e.g., difficulty breathing or heavy bleeding from the mouth)
2. Gargle with salt water. The salt helps to reduce swelling and inflammation and also fight off infection-causing bacteria. Dissolve one teaspoon of salt in one cup of warm water. Rinse your mouth repeatedly and swish the salty water around your mouth for a few minutes.
   • The pain from your toothache may instantly subside or take a few minutes to reduce itself.
3. Apply a cold compress. If your toothache is caused by injury to the teeth or jaw, or if you experience inflammation in your gums, apply an ice pack or a cool water bottle to the outside of your cheek for 5 to 10 minutes. If you do not have an ice pack, you can also wet a cloth in cold water, strain the water and hold it up to your cheek to help reduce inflammation and pain.
   • Apply the ice pack or cold compress only on the outer side of your mouth; do not put it on the tooth or pain will increase.
   • If you experience bleeding gums, rinse your mouth with warm water before applying a cold compress.
   • If bleeding persists from the gums or teeth, immediately see your dentist or healthcare provider.
   • Although a cold compress helps reduce inflammation, consuming cold foods or beverages can increase tooth pain and sensitivity, and therefore should be avoided until the toothache goes away.
4. Try oil pulling. Oil pulling involves swishing around oil in your mouth to remove harmful germs and bacteria. At least one study has shown it can reduce the amount of some bacteria found in your mouth. It may reduce the likelihood of infection and may ease (though not resolve) tooth pain caused by bacteria.
   • Take a tablespoon of oil and swish it in your mouth (like you would a mouthwash) for one minute to experience the benefits. If you can, try to swish the oil longer for 15 to 20 minutes. Do this procedure on an empty stomach to ensure that the oil absorbs and detoxifies as much bacteria as possible. After you're done swishing, spit the oil out (in the trash, not in a sink or anywhere you could clog the plumbing) and wash out your mouth with lukewarm water.
   • If you have gum disease, be aware that the oil will not penetrate deep enough to cure the infection. You need to see a dentist or periodontist.
   • Oil pulling should not replace your regular brushing and flossing.
   • Coconut oil is the most popular because it has a pleasing taste and contains antioxidants and vitamins, like vitamin E. Sesame oil and olive oil are good alternatives as well.
5. Chew a piece of gum. Studies show that chewing sugar-free gum for 20 minutes a day following meals can help prevent tooth decay, which leads to toothaches. Chewing gum neutralizes acids produced by bacteria, strengthens tooth enamel and jaw muscles, and provides disease-fighting substances throughout the mouth. Sugary gum should be avoided as it increases plaque-causing bacteria and may cause cavities.
   • Don’t let chewing gum replace brushing and flossing, as they are the most important steps of your oral care routine.
6. Quit smoking. Cigarettes and chewing tobacco are harmful to your oral health as they can cause and aggravate gum disease, oral cancer, and slow healing after a tooth extraction or surgery or during a toothache. They can also reduce your sense of taste and smell, weaken tooth enamel and stain teeth.
   • Smoking is also responsible for lung, heart and various other health problems. Talk to your doctor to make a treatment plan that can help you quit smoking.

Home-Treating Canker Sores

1. Rinse your mouth with a salt water solution. Dissolve one teaspoon of salt water in 1/2 cup of warm water and swish around your mouth for a minute.
   • You can also use baking soda for a similar effect. Dissolve the same amount of baking soda as you would salt in a cup of warm water. Yet another option would be to mix a 1/2 teaspoon with a few drops of water to make a paste that you then apply directly to the sore for pain relief. All of these methods can be used as often as you need.
   • Note that the salt water rinse may sting when you do it.
2. Apply Milk of Magnesia. Milk of Magnesia is a liquid suspension of magnesium hydroxide and can help reduce the pain of your canker sore and speed up the healing process. Apply a small amount (enough to cover the sore) of milk of magnesia on your canker sore a few times a day.
   • Alternatively, apply the milk of magnesia after applying a half hydrogen peroxide and half water solution directly to the sore. Hydrogen peroxide works as an antiseptic and can reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth.
3. Limit your intake of acidic or spicy foods. Citrus fruits, tomatoes, coffee, chilies, hot sauce, and anything else abrasive can exacerbate the pain of your canker sore.
4. Numb the sore naturally. Eating or drinking something very cold is a great way to numb your mouth and provide temporary relief. Smoothies, ice cream, and milkshakes are all good options.
   • You can also directly apply ice to your canker sores by allowing ice chips/cubes to slowly dissolve over the sores. Just be careful not to choke.
5. Take care when brushing your teeth. Make sure to use a soft brush that won't irritate your canker sore as well as toothpaste that doesn't foam, such as Biotene or Sensodyne ProNamel.
   • Take your time and go gently over your teeth to avoid aggravating of your canker.

Home-Treating Minor Gum Infections

1. Use a tartar-control toothpaste. If your gums are slightly swollen and red or feel tender to the touch, try using a tartar-control toothpaste with fluoride in it. Tartar is hardened plaque on your teeth that can get into the gum line and cause gum disease.
   • You should also use a mouthwash with fluoride and antimicrobial agents, which can help to reduce tiny lesions on the teeth (which increase the likelihood of tooth decay) and fight the bacteria in plaque that causes gum damage.
2. Observe proper oral hygiene. Always brush after meals and snacks and floss every evening before bed. Mild gum disease is reversible with proper oral hygiene, so it's key that you make a concerted effort in this regard if you want to avoid developing the more severe periodontitis. If you're not sure if you're doing a thorough enough job of brushing your teeth, ask your dentist or dental hygienist for a lesson. Make sure as well to get regular checkups and teeth cleanings.
   • If for whatever reason, you can't brush your teeth after you've eaten, try chewing a stick of sugar-free gum or using a toothpick to clean out any remaining food particles.
   • Another good option is to rinse your mouth out with warm salt water. Mix one teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and then swish it around mouth. Don't swallow the solution; spit it out once you're done rinsing.
3. Avoid drugs and smoking. Illegal drugs, like methamphetamines, can cause problems with your gums if you use them for a prolonged period of time. In addition, smoking tobacco is significantly associated with gum problems and reduces your body's ability to fight gum infections and slows the healing process.

Observing Dental Hygiene

1. Picking the right toothbrush. Following a proper oral care routine helps prevent toothaches by removing bacteria and plaque that cause damage and decay to your teeth. Both manual and electric powered toothbrushes can effectively clean teeth. People who have difficulty using a manual toothbrush may find electrical toothbrushes easier to use. Your dentist can help you decide which type is best suited to your needs.
   • A soft bristled toothbrush is best for people with sensitive teeth and gums.
   • Make sure to replace your toothbrush every three to four months.
   • Do not share your toothbrush with anyone as this can spread germs and disease-causing bacteria into your mouth.
   • Wash your toothbrush before and after every use to keep bacteria from accumulating on the bristles.
2. Brush your teeth twice a day. Brushing your teeth is the most important part of your dental care routine. For a healthy mouth and smile, experts recommend that you brush your teeth twice a day for two with a soft-bristled toothbrush. The proper brushing technique is to:
   • Place your toothbrush at a 45 degree angle to the gums.
   • Gently move the brush back and forth in short, tooth-wide strokes. Brush the outer surfaces, inner surfaces and chewing surfaces of the teeth.
   • To clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, tilt the brush vertically and make several up-and-down strokes.
   • Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and keep your breath fresh.
3. Use an appropriate toothpaste. If you suspect that your toothache may be due to tooth sensitivity, try using a toothpaste specifically designed for sensitive teeth, such as the brand Sensodyne.
   • Use this toothpaste in place of your other and see if you notice a difference after a week or so of use. Alternatively, you could rub a small amount of the toothpaste directly on the aching or sensitive area with your finger two to three times daily.
4. Choose the right floss. Flossing is one the most important steps in your dental care routine besides brushing. Originally, floss was made from silk fibers which are quite expensive. Nowadays, commercial floss is made from synthetic nylon or plastic filaments and is often treated with flavoring agents, such as mint or lemon, artificial sweeteners and sugar alcohols, such as xylitol and mannitol, to make flossing more pleasant. They may also be waxed with beeswax or plant-based wax for ease of use, however there is no difference in the effectiveness of waxed or unwaxed floss.
   • Organic flosses made from silk are still available online and in certain drugstores for people who want to avoid artificial sweeteners, plastic filaments or fluoride, but these may cost more than regular floss. Both organic and vegan flosses are packaged in plastic containers by requirement of the FDA (Food and Drug Administration).
   • Never use string or any other fabric to floss your teeth, as you can severely damage your teeth and gum tissue. Only dental flosses that are approved by the ADA (American Dental Association) have been tested for safety and effectiveness.
5. Floss your teeth regularly. Flossing at least once a day helps remove plaque and food debris from between your teeth which can cause tooth pain. Children should start flossing as soon as they have two or more teeth. However, since most children younger than 10 or 11 years are not able to floss properly, they should be supervised by an adult. Keep in mind that flossing may cause some discomfort at first but should not be painful either. If you floss too hard, you can damage the tissue between your teeth. With daily flossing and brushing, the discomfort should ease within a week or two. If your pain persists, talk to your dentist. The proper steps to flossing your teeth are:
   • Using about 18 inches of floss, wrap the majority of it around one your middle fingers.
   • Wrap the little bit of floss left around the same finger on your other hand. This is basically setting up that finger to wind up the used floss as it becomes dirty. Wind the remaining floss around the same finger of the opposite hand. This finger will take up the floss as it becomes dirty.
   • While holding the string of floss between your thumbs and forefingers, use a gentle motion to push the floss between your teeth. Rather than push it straight up into the gum, try moving it back and forth as you inch your way up between the teeth (like a see-saw motion).
   • Once the floss is at the gum line, curve it against a tooth so it reaches all sides of the tooth's gum line. Then bring the floss into the space between the gum and the tooth and start moving the floss away from the gum in and up-and-down-motion (again think of a see-saw but this way going vertically, rather than horizontally).
   • Repeat with the rest of your teeth. Throw the used floss away as it no longer has any use.
6. Use a mouthwash. For your daily oral care routine, swish 1 fluid ounce of mouthwash in your mouth after brushing and having meals for two to three minutes, then spit out. Ask your dentist or hygienist to recommend the mouthwash that is best suited to your individual needs.
   • A cup of lukewarm, distilled water (meaning water that has been boiled) is an effective homemade mouthwash for people with sensitive teeth and gums to help kill bacteria and wash away food debris.
   • To avoid alcohol, which can increase tooth and gum sensitivity, read ingredient labels carefully as many over-the-counter mouth rinses contain high amounts of alcohol and use it as the main ingredient.
   • When buying from a store, check the ingredient list to avoid sodium lauryl sulfate, an artificial detergent that can cause sensitivity, tooth pain and mouth ulcers. Instead, choose a mouthwash with a natural emulsifier like vegetable oils, sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), or sodium chloride (salt). Plant extracts such as peppermint, sage, cinnamon and lemon can also help freshen your breath.
7. Visit your dentist regularly. There is no single recommendation about how often you should visit your dentist. Some people only need to visit once or twice a year for a standard checkup and cleaning while others may be encouraged to visit more frequently.
   • Though many people don't like to go to the dentist and in fact 100 million Americans don't even visit a dentist every year, routine dental examinations can help prevent most dental problems and diseases.

Seeking Medical Assistance

1. Ask your doctor about medication. An over-the-counter pain killer such as aspirin, ibuprofen or antiseptic gel can be used to help numb toothaches caused by injury, decay or abscesses. It may take up to half an hour or more for the beneficial effects to be noticed. However, you should ask your doctor about potential side-effects that may be associated with the medication or any interactions it may have with herbs, foods or other medicines you may be using.
   • Do not take painkillers on an empty stomach as this can cause stomach acid reflux.
   • Avoid placing aspirin or another painkiller directly against your gum as it can damage gum tissue.
   • Follow the manufacturer's guidelines and do not exceed the stated doses for each (usually one tablet every four hours).
   • Ask your dentist or doctor if your medicine contains benzocaine. Benzocaine has been linked to a rare and serious condition called methemoglobinemia, which decreases the amount of oxygen carried by the blood. If absolutely necessary, use benzocaine only as prescribed. Never use more than the recommended dose and avoid giving it to children and people with a heart or lung condition.
2. Get a dental X-ray. If you frequently experience toothaches or bleeding gums, an X-ray can help your dentist understand the cause better. A dental X-ray can help your dentist detect any signs of damage or disease in your teeth that may not be visible during a regular check-up.
   • If you are a new patient in a dental office, your dentist may recommend getting an X-ray to determine the current status of your oral health.
   • Additional X-rays may be needed every few years to help your dentist detect any cavities, analyze your gum health or evaluate the growth and development of your teeth.
   • Tell your dentist if you are pregnant so that you can use a special apron that protects you and your child from any radiation exposure.
3. Check for signs of gingivitis. Gingivitis is a form of periodontal disease, which can cause inflammation and infection of gums and tooth sockets, along with tooth decay and toothaches. It is a result of long-term plaque deposits on your teeth caused by poor dental hygiene, misaligned teeth, and ill-fitting or unclean mouth appliances, such as braces.
   • Pregnancy, uncontrolled diabetes, and the use of certain medications may increase your risk of gingivitis.
   • Symptoms of gingivitis include bleeding gums (such as blood on toothbrush even when gently brushing teeth), bright red or red-purple appearance to gums, gums that are tender when touched but otherwise painless, mouth sores, swollen gums, plaque and tartar that can been seen at the base of the teeth.
   • If you suspect gingivitis, schedule a checkup with your dentist as soon as possible.
4. Get medical care for severe tooth pain. See your dentist immediately if you experience any of the following with a toothache:
   • Trouble breathing or swallowing
   • Fever
   • Pain that persists for a day or two
   • Signs and symptoms of infection, such as swelling, pain when you close or open your mouth, red gums, or a foul-tasting discharge.
   • A sinus or ear infection can also be felt as pain in the teeth. Discharge from the ears or nose may be signs of an infection.

Warnings

• If you are experiencing a toothache or any other pain in your mouth, you should see a dentist or your doctor immediately. Though home remedies can help alleviate the ache you feel, they cannot treat the underlying cause of it, such as a cavity or broken jaw.

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Sources and Citations

See also

• Treat Canker Sores or Mouth Ulcers
• Treat Cavities
• Get Rid of Thrush in Infants
• Remove a Mouth Ulcer
• Reduce Gum Swelling
• Heal a Sore Tongue
• Prevent Dry Socket After a Tooth Extraction
• Get Rid of White Tongue
• Stop Gum Recession
• Stop Bleeding Gums, Gingivitis, Periodontitis

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