Toothache Cure

How can I get rid of a toothache and swelling?
( 7 Apr 2009)

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Toothaches are mostly caused by cavities in the teeth, infected pulp, and gum diseases. Lack of proper oral care can cause bacteria to form on the plaque and then result in tooth decay and cavities. It is therefore important to brush the teeth regularly and visit the dentist to maintain proper dental health.

However, besides tooth decay there may be some other causes of a toothache as well – cracked tooth, emergence of new tooth, injury, and Temporo-Mandibular Joint syndrome. Therefore, if the toothache is severe and does not show any sign of improvement it is advisable to ascertain the exact cause by consulting with a dentist.

You can, in the meantime, try out some of the home remedies that are known to be effective in dealing with toothaches and swelling.

First, you should gargle with lukewarm saline water, which is one of the most tried methods to ease the pain. Gargling with a solution of potassium carbonate– prepared by mixing a spoon of potassium carbonate in a glass of lukewarm water – can also be helpful in easing the pain. You can also try heat treatment with a heating pad to help reduce the pain and swelling. If a heating pad is nowhere close at hand, you can take a washcloth, heat it up by ironing, and then press it against the area of pain. Many a time people also prefer alternate heat and cold compresses as this also gives good results in easing toothaches. You can use a cold compress (with an ice pack) after you have applied a hot compress and alternate the treatment a couple of times to get relief from the toothache. Clove oil, which is supposed to be a good antiseptic, can also be applied on the teeth to get rid of a toothache. If you don’t have clove oil, you can crush cloves and apply it directly on the teeth. Similarly, applying crushed garlic can also help in reducing the pain and swelling. Grapefruit seed extract is another solution that is commonly used to relieve a toothache. You can also use powdered black pepper or oregano on the teeth to ease the pain. Asafetida, lime juice, hot tea bag are some other common home remedies used to deal with toothaches.

Besides these home remedies, you should make some changes in your diet. Avoid eating sweets and sugary foods, as they help the bacteria to thrive. Also, include some vitamin C-rich items (lime and tomato) in your daily meal as they are good for healthy teeth.

answered by G M on 7 Apr 2009, 1:44:53

Toothache Cure

How can I get rid of a toothache and swelling? ( 7 Apr 2009)

How can I get rid of a toothache and swelling?
( 7 Apr 2009)