How to quickly relieve a toothache: 4 quick home remedies for toothache

Relieving toothache from cavities is a solution many people seek when tooth pain strikes unexpectedly, especially at night or when they cannot immediately visit a dentist. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), oral diseases affect approximately 3.5 billion people globally, with tooth decay being one of the most common issues. If left untreated, tooth decay can worsen, leading to pulp inflammation, infection, and even tooth loss.

If you're looking for ways to quickly relieve toothache from cavities or want to know how to properly treat tooth decay pain to minimize complications, this article will guide you through simple, easy-to-follow, and medically sound methods. Tiptory will also help you recognize when you can temporarily relieve pain at home and when you need to see a dentist for definitive treatment, thereby protecting your long-term oral health.

Part 1: Safe and Effective Cavity Pain Relief Medications

Method 1: Dental Examination for Definitive Treatment

Visit a dentist as soon as possible for painful tooth decay

• If you are experiencing toothache from cavities, visit a dentist for an examination instead of just trying to relieve cavity pain at home. Early treatment helps prevent the spread of decay, preserve tooth tissue, and reduce the risk of complications.

• The dentist will examine your entire mouth, assess the extent of the damage, and may order X-rays if necessary. X-ray images help identify the location of the cavity, the extent of damage inside the tooth, and problems in the tooth roots or surrounding tissues that are difficult to see with the naked eye.

• After the results are available, the dentist will recommend the appropriate method for treating tooth decay pain and treatment plan for your condition.

Fillings are a common treatment method

• For early or moderate cavities, fillings are the most commonly used method. The dentist will remove the decayed tooth tissue, clean the cavity, and then use filling material to restore the tooth's shape and function.

• Treatment with fillings not only helps to relieve toothache from cavities but also prevents bacteria from continuing to destroy the tooth structure, thereby reducing the risk of needing root canal treatment or tooth extraction later on.

Treating infection before tooth restoration

• If tooth decay has caused inflammation, abscess formation, or spread to the pulp, the dentist may prescribe antibiotics in cases with signs of widespread infection or soft tissue swelling, in conjunction with appropriate dental treatments.

• Controlling the infection before procedures helps reduce the risk of complications, supports the recovery process, and improves the effectiveness of treating tooth decay pain. Patients need to take medication as prescribed by the doctor and return for follow-up appointments to monitor treatment results.

Method 2: Using Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers Correctly

Using pain relievers for temporary symptom relief

• If toothache from cavities or gum pain due to decay makes it difficult for you to eat or sleep, you can use some over-the-counter pain relievers to relieve cavity pain while waiting to see a dentist.

• Commonly used medications include:

  • Ibuprofen: Has pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects, suitable when the tooth or gum area is swollen.

  • Acetaminophen (Paracetamol): Helps relieve pain, suitable for those who cannot take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

  • Naproxen: Provides longer-lasting pain relief in some cases.

  • Aspirin: Can help relieve pain, but needs to be used correctly.

Follow medication instructions correctly

• Always read the instructions on the packaging carefully or use the medication as directed by a doctor or pharmacist.

• Do not arbitrarily increase the dose or take the medication more frequently than recommended, as this can increase the risk of side effects such as liver damage, gastrointestinal bleeding, or kidney problems.

• If you are pregnant, have liver disease, kidney disease, stomach ulcers, or are taking anticoagulants, consult your doctor before taking any pain reliever.

Do not place aspirin directly on teeth or gums

• Some people suggest holding or placing an aspirin tablet on the aching tooth to treat tooth decay pain, but this method is not recommended.

• Aspirin does not provide faster pain relief when placed directly on the tooth. On the contrary, the drug can irritate or chemically burn the oral mucosa and gums, making the damage more severe.

• To achieve effectiveness and ensure safety, take aspirin orally as directed if the medication is suitable for your health condition.

Method 3: Using Numbing Gel for Temporary Pain Relief

Apply numbing gel to the painful tooth area

• If the toothache from cavities is bothersome, you can use a topical numbing gel to relieve cavity pain for a short period before visiting the dentist.

• Many products contain benzocaine, which temporarily numbs the gum and mucous membrane around the aching tooth, thereby helping to reduce pain.

• Use a clean finger or cotton swab to apply a sufficient amount of gel to the gum area near the decayed tooth, following the manufacturer's instructions.

• Do not apply too much gel and avoid swallowing the product during use. After application, spit out any excess gel remaining in your mouth.

Use the correct dosage and frequency

• Read the instructions on the packaging carefully to know the amount of gel to use, how to apply it, and the interval between uses.

• Do not overuse numbing gel or use it continuously for many days without a doctor's or dentist's instruction.

• It's important to note that products containing benzocaine only help to relieve toothache from cavities temporarily; they do not treat the underlying cause of the decay.

Notes after applying numbing gel

• After applying the gel, you may notice increased saliva production, which is a temporary physiological reaction and usually not a concern.

• The tongue or mucous membranes near the application area may also feel numb for a short time. During this time, limit eating or talking too much to avoid accidentally biting your tongue, lips, or inner cheeks.

• Do not use products containing benzocaine for young children without a doctor's instruction, as this active ingredient can rarely cause severe side effects such as methemoglobinemia. If symptoms such as difficulty breathing, cyanosis, or dizziness appear after use, discontinue use and seek medical attention immediately.

Part 2: Quick Home Remedies for Toothache from Cavities

Tip 1: Properly Clean the Cavity

Remove food stuck in the cavity

• If toothache from cavities appears or worsens after eating, the cause may be food stuck in the cavity, putting pressure on the tooth tissue and irritating the nerves.

• Rinse your mouth with warm water to loosen food particles and help clean the oral cavity before removing them.

• Then, use a toothpick or a small interdental cleaning tool to gently remove food stuck in the cavity. Perform this slowly to avoid further damaging the sensitive tooth area.

Avoid strong pressure on the cavity

• Do not poke too deeply into the cavity with a toothpick or hard object, as this can chip the tooth, damage remaining tooth tissue, or cause gum bleeding.

• If food is stuck too tightly and cannot be easily removed, do not try to use strong force. Instead, continue rinsing your mouth or use dental floss if appropriate, then see a dentist for safe removal.

Maintain oral hygiene to prevent recurring pain

• After cleaning the cavity, brush your teeth gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and use fluoride toothpaste to help protect tooth enamel.

• Removing food stuck in your teeth only helps to temporarily relieve toothache from cavities; it cannot treat tooth decay pain. To treat it definitively, you still need to visit a dentist for examination and treatment of the underlying cause of the decay.

Tip 2: Rinse Mouth with Warm Salt Water

Use salt water to relieve pain and clean the oral cavity

• Rinsing with warm salt water is one of the simplest ways to temporarily relieve toothache from cavities at home. Salt water solution can help clean the oral cavity, reduce bacteria, and soothe irritated gums.

• Additionally, salt water helps rinse away food debris remaining around the cavity, thereby reducing the worsening of pain after eating.

Prepare salt water correctly

• Dissolve about 1 teaspoon of salt in 1 cup (about 240 ml) of warm water until the salt is completely dissolved.

• Do not use water that is too hot, as it can make sensitive teeth and gums even more painful.

Rinse correctly

• Swish a mouthful of salt water gently for about 30–60 seconds.

• Swirl the solution thoroughly around the decayed tooth and painful gum area to enhance cleaning effectiveness.

• After rinsing, spit out the solution and repeat 2–4 times a day, especially after meals and before bedtime.

Notes when applying

• Rinsing with salt water only helps to relieve toothache from cavities and clean the oral cavity; it cannot treat tooth decay pain or remove the cavity.

• If the pain lasts more than 1–2 days, or is accompanied by facial swelling, fever, pus, or severe pain, see a dentist as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment of the cause.

Tip 3: Cold Compress to Relieve Toothache from Cavities

Cold compress helps soothe pain and reduce swelling

• A cold compress is a simple way to temporarily relieve toothache from cavities, especially when there is swelling in the cheek or gums. Cold temperatures help constrict blood vessels, reduce inflammation, and slow down pain signal transmission.

• This method only helps to relieve symptoms; it does not treat tooth decay pain or the underlying cause of the decay.

Prepare a cold compress correctly

• Place ice cubes or crushed ice in a clean cloth, ice pack, or specialized bag.

• If using a pre-made cold pack, follow the manufacturer's instructions.

• Always wrap the ice pack in a cloth or clean paper before applying to avoid frostbite or skin damage.

Apply cold compress to the correct location

• If your tooth is not too sensitive to cold, you can gently apply the compress to the outside of your cheek, corresponding to the painful tooth.

• Do not directly suck on ice near the decayed tooth or place ice in direct contact with the tooth, as excessively cold temperatures can worsen pain in individuals with sensitive teeth.

Appropriate compress duration

• Apply the cold compress for about 10–15 minutes each time.

• After each application, rest for a while to allow the skin to return to normal temperature before continuing if pain relief is still needed.

• You can repeat this multiple times a day, but avoid continuous application for prolonged periods to prevent damage to the skin and soft tissues.

When to see a dentist

• If the toothache from cavities does not subside after a cold compress, or if it is accompanied by significant swelling, fever, pus, or severe, prolonged pain, you should see a dentist as soon as possible. These could be signs of an infection or pulp damage that requires specialized treatment.

Tip 4: Rinse Mouth with Hydrogen Peroxide Correctly

Use hydrogen peroxide to help clean the oral cavity

• A 3% hydrogen peroxide solution can help clean the oral cavity, reduce bacteria, and support hygiene around the decayed tooth. In some cases, this can help to relieve toothache from cavities if the cause is related to mild gum tissue inflammation.

• However, hydrogen peroxide cannot treat tooth decay pain or treat the cavity itself. This is only a temporary supportive measure before you see a dentist.

Rinse correctly to ensure safety

• If using hydrogen peroxide, choose a 3% solution and use it according to the product instructions or your dentist's recommendation.

• Swish and rinse gently in your mouth for about 30–60 seconds, focusing on the painful tooth area, then spit it out completely.

• Do not swallow the solution as it can cause irritation to the digestive tract.

Do not overuse hydrogen peroxide

• Do not use hydrogen peroxide continuously for a long time. Overuse can irritate the oral mucosa and increase tooth sensitivity in some people.

• If after a few days the toothache from cavities does not improve, or if symptoms such as gum swelling, pus, fever, or severe pain appear, stop self-treatment and see a dentist for diagnosis and treatment of the cause.

Important Note

• Do not use hydrogen peroxide concentrations higher than recommended for rinsing.

• Children should only use hydrogen peroxide under the guidance of a doctor or dentist to avoid the risk of swallowing the solution.

• For long-term effectiveness, dental treatment such as fillings, root canal treatment, or other appropriate methods are still necessary to treat tooth decay pain and prevent complications.

Part 3: Traditional Natural Remedies for Toothache from Cavities

Method 1: Be Cautious with Natural Extracts

No conclusive evidence of pain-relieving efficacy

• Some folk remedies suggest that extracts like vanilla, peppermint, or lemon can temporarily help relieve toothache from cavities due to their fragrance or certain natural compounds.

• However, there is currently insufficient high-quality scientific evidence to confirm that these extracts are effective in treating tooth decay pain or relieving pain caused by cavities. Therefore, they should not be considered a primary treatment method.

If you wish to use them, do so safely

• Only use products clearly labeled as safe for the oral cavity and free from high concentrations of alcohol or ingredients that could cause irritation.

• Use a clean cotton swab or cotton ball to apply a very small amount of the solution lightly to the gum area near the aching tooth, avoiding allowing the solution to spread throughout the mouth.

• If you experience burning, irritation, or an allergic reaction, stop using it immediately and rinse your mouth with clean water.

Do not replace dental treatment

• Natural extracts, if effective, only provide temporary relief from discomfort and cannot eliminate bacteria, restore tooth enamel, or treat cavities.

Method 2: Be cautious when using essential oils for toothache relief

Essential oils may help relieve pain, but evidence is limited.

• Some essential oils, such as clove oil, tea tree oil, oregano oil, or nutmeg oil, are believed to have antibacterial or pain-relieving properties. Among these, clove oil has more evidence due to its eugenol content – an active ingredient used in some dental materials to temporarily relieve pain.

• However, essential oils cannot cure toothache from cavities or eliminate the cause of tooth decay. They can only help reduce toothache from cavities for a short period in some cases.

Use essential oils correctly and safely.

• Do not apply undiluted essential oil directly to teeth or gums, as high concentrations can cause irritation or burns to the mucous membranes.

• If you wish to use them, dilute according to the manufacturer's instructions or consult a dentist before use.

• You can use a clean cotton swab to apply a very small amount of the diluted solution to the gum area near the painful tooth, avoiding contact with the entire oral cavity.

Do not swallow essential oils.

• After use, spit out any remaining essential oil in your mouth and avoid swallowing, as many essential oils are not safe for ingestion.

• If you experience a burning sensation, swelling, rash, or discomfort in your mouth, stop using it immediately and rinse your mouth with clean water.

Essential oils are not a substitute for dental treatment.

• While some essential oils may help soothe symptoms, they cannot restore tooth enamel, remove cavities, or treat infections.

• If toothache from cavities persists, is severe, or is accompanied by gum swelling, fever, or pus, you should see a dentist as soon as possible. Professional treatment is still the most effective solution to treat toothache from cavities, preserve natural teeth, and prevent serious complications.

Method 3: Be cautious with chewing herbal leaves for toothache

Insufficient evidence of therapeutic efficacy.

• Some traditional remedies suggest that plantain leaves or mint leaves can help relieve toothache from cavities due to compounds with anti-inflammatory or soothing properties for soft tissues.

• However, there is not enough high-quality scientific evidence to prove that chewing these leaves can cure toothache from cavities or effectively relieve pain. Therefore, this should not be considered a primary treatment method.

If you choose to use it, ensure safety.

• Only use fresh, clean leaves from a clear source, thoroughly washed under running water to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination or chemical residues.

• Avoid picking plants growing along roadsides, in parks, or in areas where pesticides are used, as they may be harmful to health.

• If irritation, itching, swelling, or a burning sensation occurs in the mouth after use, stop immediately and rinse your mouth with clean water.

Mint may help provide a comforting sensation.

• Mint leaves contain menthol, which creates a cooling sensation and may help reduce discomfort in the mouth for some individuals.

• However, this effect is only temporary and cannot eliminate bacteria causing tooth decay or restore damaged tooth structure.

Treating the cause is still the most important.

• Herbal remedies can only help soothe symptoms for a short time and cannot replace dental treatment.

• If you experience prolonged or worsening toothache from cavities, significant sensitivity, or develop gum swelling, fever, or pus, see a dentist for examination. Treating the root cause is the most effective way to reduce toothache from cavities, cure toothache from cavities, and prevent complications such as pulpitis or dental abscesses.

Method 4: Do not apply lemon or citrus directly to a decaying tooth.

Acids from citrus fruits can worsen the pain.

• Some folk remedies suggest that lemon or other citrus fruits can reduce toothache from cavities due to their antibacterial properties.

• However, there is no reliable scientific evidence to show that placing lemon on a tooth can cure toothache from cavities. On the contrary, the citric acid in lemons and limes can erode tooth enamel, expose the dentin, and make sensitivity more severe, especially in teeth already affected by cavities.

Do not bite or rub lemon on a painful tooth.

• Avoid biting directly into a lemon slice or rubbing lemon juice on a painful tooth and gums.

• Acids can irritate the soft tissues in the mouth and increase pain in the affected tooth area.

• If this remedy is frequently applied, the risk of enamel erosion and increased tooth sensitivity will be higher.

Choose safer pain relief methods.

• Instead of using lemon, you should apply scientifically supported methods such as rinsing with warm salt water, applying a cold compress to the outside of the cheek, or taking over-the-counter pain relievers as directed.

• These measures can help to temporarily reduce toothache from cavities while awaiting dental treatment.

Dental treatment is a long-term solution.

• When a tooth has a cavity, only specialized treatments such as fillings, root canal treatment, or other appropriate interventions can address the cause of the pain.

• If the pain is persistent, severe, accompanied by facial swelling, fever, or pus, see a dentist as soon as possible to properly treat toothache from cavities and prevent serious complications.

Method 5: Avoid rinsing with apple cider vinegar for toothache relief

Apple cider vinegar is not a recommended method.

• Apple cider vinegar often appears in many folk remedies, but there is no reliable scientific evidence to show that rinsing with apple cider vinegar can effectively reduce toothache from cavities or cure toothache from cavities.

• Although apple cider vinegar is acidic and can inhibit some bacteria in laboratory conditions, this does not mean it can treat tooth decay in practice.

The acid in apple cider vinegar can harm tooth enamel.

• Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which can soften and erode tooth enamel if exposed frequently.

• For teeth already affected by cavities, exposure to an acidic environment can make them more sensitive and accelerate the progression of damage.

• Therefore, dental organizations do not recommend using apple cider vinegar as a routine measure to reduce toothache from cavities.

If already used, proper oral hygiene is essential.

• After consuming any acidic foods or drinks, including apple cider vinegar, rinse your mouth with clean water to help neutralize any residual acid.

• Do not brush your teeth immediately after acid exposure. Wait about 30–60 minutes to allow tooth enamel time to remineralize naturally, which helps reduce the risk of enamel erosion.

Prioritize scientifically-backed methods.

• If you are experiencing toothache from cavities, you should choose recommended methods such as using pain relievers as directed, rinsing with warm salt water, maintaining good oral hygiene, and visiting a dentist for treatment.

• Only dental treatment, such as fillings, root canal therapy, or other appropriate interventions, can cure toothache from cavities and prevent long-term complications.

Method 6: Do not bite garlic, onion, or ginger directly onto a decaying tooth.

Pain relief efficacy not clearly proven.

• Garlic, onion, and ginger have long been used in traditional remedies due to certain compounds with antibacterial or anti-inflammatory properties.

• However, there is not enough high-quality scientific evidence to prove that biting these foods directly can effectively reduce toothache from cavities or cure toothache from cavities.

• Therefore, this is not a method recommended by dental associations.

May cause irritation to the tooth and gum area.

• Garlic contains allicin, ginger contains gingerol, and onions contain many sulfur compounds. When in direct contact with gums or oral mucosa for a prolonged period, these substances can cause burning, irritation, or even chemical burns in some individuals.

• For decayed teeth with exposed dentin or pulpitis, placing garlic, onion, or ginger directly on the tooth can even intensify the pain.

Does not replace treating the cause.

• If you want to benefit from these foods, you should consume them as part of a balanced diet rather than applying them directly to your teeth.

• Biting or applying garlic, onion, or ginger cannot eliminate bacteria in cavities, restore tooth enamel, or treat infections.

Prioritize proven methods.

• When experiencing toothache from cavities, you should apply scientifically supported methods such as using pain relievers as directed, rinsing with warm salt water, maintaining good oral hygiene, and visiting a dentist for treatment.

• If the pain is persistent, severe, accompanied by gum swelling, fever, or pus, see a doctor as soon as possible. Professional treatment is the most effective way to reduce toothache from cavities, cure toothache from cavities, and preserve teeth long-term.

Method 7: Avoid using asafoetida powder and lemon for toothache treatment

No scientific evidence of efficacy.

• Asafoetida (also known as "hùng xị" or Ferula gum resin) is a spice and medicinal herb used in traditional medicine in some Middle Eastern and South Asian countries.

• Although some traditional texts suggest that asafoetida has anti-inflammatory or antibacterial properties, there is not enough high-quality scientific evidence to prove that this mixture can effectively reduce toothache from cavities or cure toothache from cavities.

Avoid combining with lemon juice.

• The formula of mixing asafoetida powder with lemon juice is not recommended by dental organizations.

• Lemon contains a high amount of citric acid, which can erode tooth enamel, increase sensitivity, and make the decayed tooth more sensitive.

• For damaged teeth, applying an acidic mixture directly to the tooth or gums can cause irritation and make the pain more uncomfortable.

Beware of irritation risks.

• Asafoetida can cause allergies or irritation of the oral mucosa in some people, especially when applied directly to inflamed gum areas.

• Do not self-medicate with herbal mixtures on teeth without guidance from a healthcare professional or dentist.

Prioritize proven methods.

• When experiencing toothache from cavities, you should choose scientifically supported methods such as maintaining oral hygiene, rinsing with warm salt water, using pain relievers as directed, and visiting a dentist for treatment.

• Folk remedies like asafoetida are merely anecdotal and cannot replace dental procedures. To thoroughly cure toothache from cavities, the cause must be addressed with treatments like fillings, root canal therapy, or other appropriate interventions as prescribed by a dentist.

References

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4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Adult Oral Health. Atlanta, GA: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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8. Mayo Clinic Staff. Tooth Decay (Cavities): Symptoms and Causes. Rochester, MN: Mayo Clinic.
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10. Malamed SF. Handbook of Local Anesthesia. 7th ed. St. Louis, MO: Elsevier; 2020.
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13. StatPearls Publishing. Dental Caries. Treasure Island, FL: StatPearls Publishing.
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Content edited by: Lesley Collins Tran.

Information consulted and verified by expert: Amelia Wilson.