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If your tooth feels like it’s plotting against you, first: breathe. Second: try these natural, science-backed, and grandma-approved remedies to ease the pain until you can see a dentist.
(And yes, you can do them in your PJs. Bonus points if you’re snacking on ice cream in between. 🍦)
Let’s soothe that scream-in-your-mouth situation 👇
🧂 1. Salt Water Rinse — The OG Healer
Salt water is antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. It’s the day-one ride or die for pain and swelling.
How to use:
Mix 1/2 tsp of salt in a glass of warm water and swish for 30 seconds.
It’s simple. It’s cheap. And it works.
🧊 2. Cold Compress = Instant Numb Vibes
No fancy tools needed. Just ice and a towel.
How to use:
Wrap ice in a cloth and hold it to your cheek (20 mins on, 20 mins off). It numbs the area and reduces inflammation.
It’s giving frosty face but make it pain relief.
🌿 3. Clove Oil = Nature’s Numbing Agent
Cloves contain eugenol, which literally numbs nerves. It’s been used for centuries to treat tooth pain — and still slaps in 2025.
How to use:
Dip a cotton swab in clove oil and dab it on the sore tooth.
Yes, it smells like grandma’s kitchen. But your tooth will thank you.
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🧄 4. Garlic = Spicy Little Antibiotic Queen
Garlic contains allicin — a natural antibacterial compound that kills pain and bacteria.
How to use:
Crush a clove, mix with a pinch of salt, and apply it to the painful tooth. Spicy? A little. Effective? Absolutely.
Also a vibe for your immune system.
🥶 5. Peppermint Tea Bag = Chill & Soothe
Peppermint has a natural numbing effect (plus smells so fresh). Used tea bags = quick fix.
How to use:
Let a tea bag cool down, then press it against your sore tooth for 20 mins.
Bonus: sip the tea for added relaxation.
🧴 6. Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse = Germs? Cancelled.
Kills bacteria, reduces plaque, and supports healing — but use it carefully.
How to use:
Mix equal parts 3% hydrogen peroxide + water. Swish gently (DO NOT swallow).
👉 Food Grade Hydrogen Peroxide
Feels weird. Works wonders.
🌱 7. Turmeric Paste = Anti-Inflammatory Glow-Up
Turmeric’s curcumin compound reduces inflammation and fights bacteria. Basically, it’s skincare for your teeth 😌
How to use:
Mix turmeric powder + a drop of water into a paste. Apply to the tooth and leave for 10-15 minutes.
Warning: it will stain. Use a cotton swab, not fingers.
🧊 8. Vanilla Extract = Sweet Pain Relief
It’s not just for cupcakes! Real vanilla has alcohol + antioxidants that can help numb pain fast.
How to use:
Dab a cotton ball with vanilla extract and apply it to the tooth for quick comfort.
Yes, you’ll smell like cookies. No, we’re not mad.
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🪥 9. Good Oral Hygiene = Prevent Future Drama
Brush + floss even when it hurts (gently!). Leftover food particles = bacteria party = more pain.
How to use:
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-irritating toothpaste.
👉 Ultra-Soft Toothbrush Set
👉 Sensitive Teeth Toothpaste
Because prevention > desperation.
🧘♀️ 10. Try Acupressure for Tooth Pain Relief
Pressing a pressure point between your thumb and index finger (aka LI4) can help ease tooth pain. It’s not magic — it’s science.
How to use:
Firmly press the spot for 2–3 minutes, then switch hands.
We love a pressure point moment that doesn’t involve crying.
🚨 One Last Thing:
These are amazing temporary relief hacks — but they’re not a replacement for your dentist, okay? If the pain is persistent, swollen, or giving infection vibes, go get checked.
💫 Final Thoughts:
Toothaches don’t care about your schedule — but now you’ve got a whole kit of tricks to calm things down, naturally. Whether you’re a crunchy granola queen or just desperate at 2 AM, these home remedies will save your sanity till the professionals take over.
Stay strong. Stay minty. And maybe stock up before the next tooth decides to pop off 💅🦷
