Instant Home Remedies for Toothache: 5 Tips to Relieve Pain in 5 Minutes

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), oral diseases affect approximately 3.5 billion people globally, with tooth decay being the leading cause of tooth pain in both children and adults. The pain may start as a dull ache but can quickly become severe, making it difficult to eat, causing sleep disturbances, and significantly impacting work and daily life.

If you're wondering how to stop a toothache, want to find ways to treat tooth pain at home, or are looking for safe methods to treat tooth pain before visiting a dentist, this article will help you. Tiptory will guide you on how to identify the causes of tooth pain, temporary home remedies, signs that require prompt dental attention, and important tips for maintaining good oral health, helping you manage tooth pain correctly and prevent complications.

How to temporarily relieve tooth pain

See a dentist as soon as possible

• According to dental experts, tooth pain can stem from various causes such as tooth decay, cracked or broken teeth, pulp inflammation, nerve damage, or gum disease.

• Home remedies only provide temporary tooth pain relief and cannot definitively treat the underlying cause.

• If the pain persists, recurs frequently, or worsens, you should see a dentist for diagnosis and proper tooth pain treatment to avoid the risk of infection or tooth loss.

Use over-the-counter pain relievers as directed

• You can use over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or aspirin to reduce pain and inflammation while waiting for your dental appointment.

• Read the instructions carefully, adhere to the recommended dosage, and note any contraindications, especially if you are pregnant, have stomach, liver, or kidney disease, or are taking anticoagulants.

• This is a temporary solution to relieve discomfort when you're wondering how to stop a toothache, but it does not replace treating the underlying cause.

Apply a cold compress to reduce pain and swelling

• Wrap ice in a clean cloth and apply it to the outside of your cheek, near the painful tooth, for about 15–20 minutes at a time.

• You can repeat this after a few hours if needed to help reduce swelling and soothe the pain.

• Do not place ice directly on the tooth or gum, as it can increase sensitivity in vulnerable teeth.

Use topical numbing gel if needed

• Some topical numbing gels for oral use can temporarily numb the painful tooth or gum area, thereby reducing discomfort.

• Use only as directed by the manufacturer or healthcare professional, and avoid overuse as the effect is only short-lived.

• This is a temporary supportive option for tooth pain relief when you cannot see a dentist immediately.

Rinse with warm salt water

• Dissolve about 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water, then gently rinse your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out.

• Salt water helps clean the oral cavity, remove food debris, and reduce gum irritation.

• You can rinse several times a day as a supportive measure for tooth pain treatment at home, but if the pain does not improve or if swelling, fever, or pus appears, seek dental care promptly.

Part 1: Quick home remedies for tooth pain

Tip 1: Use pain relievers correctly

Prioritize over-the-counter pain relievers

• When experiencing tooth pain, you can use over-the-counter pain relievers to temporarily ease the discomfort while waiting to see a dentist.

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or aspirin often effectively reduce pain and inflammation for mild to moderate toothaches.

• Paracetamol (acetaminophen) is also a suitable option, especially for those who cannot use NSAIDs as advised by their doctor.

• This is a quick, short-term solution for tooth pain relief, but it does not treat the underlying cause of the pain.

Reduce pain for easier daily activities

• Persistent tooth pain can make it difficult to chew, speak, sleep, and concentrate on work or studies.

• Temporarily controlling the pain helps you eat and rest better, while also creating favorable conditions for the dentist to examine and treat tooth pain more effectively.

• If you're wondering how to stop a toothache, pain relievers should only be considered a supportive measure before treating the cause.

See a dentist immediately if the pain is severe

• Go to a dental clinic or hospital as soon as possible if the pain is severe, throbbing, or radiates to the ear, head, throat, or jaw area.

• These could be signs of serious issues such as pulpitis, dental abscess, or widespread infection, requiring prompt treatment.

• Do not rely solely on pain relievers if these symptoms occur, as it could delay diagnosis and treatment.

Adhere to the correct medication dosage

• Use medication only according to the recommended dosage on the packaging or as directed by a doctor or pharmacist.

• Do not arbitrarily increase the dose or use the medication continuously for many days hoping to treat tooth pain faster, as this can increase the risk of side effects such as stomach bleeding, liver, or kidney damage.

• If the pain does not improve after taking medication or recurs frequently, you should see a dentist to identify the cause and determine the appropriate tooth pain treatment.

Tip 2: Cold compress for tooth pain

Apply a cold compress correctly to relieve pain

• Place ice cubes in a food-safe bag or cold pack, then wrap it in a thin towel or clean paper towel.

• Apply the cold pack to the outside of your cheek, near the painful tooth, for about 15–20 minutes at a time.

• You can repeat this after a few hours if the pain persists. Cold temperatures help constrict blood vessels, reduce swelling, and temporarily provide tooth pain relief.

You can use a cold pack instead of ice cubes

• If you have a cold pack available, you can use it instead of an ice pack to relieve pain.

• Always wrap the cold pack in a clean cloth before applying it to the skin to minimize the risk of frostbite or irritation.

• This is a simple supportive measure for those wondering how to stop a toothache while waiting to see a dentist.

Switch to a warm compress if cold makes the pain worse

• In some cases of pulp inflammation, warm temperatures may provide more relief than cold temperatures.

• If the pain increases or becomes more sensitive when applying a cold compress, stop immediately and try applying a warm compress to the outside of your cheek as advised by a doctor or dentist.

• Monitor your body's reaction to choose the most suitable method for tooth pain treatment before getting professional care.

Do not place ice directly on the tooth

• Do not apply ice cubes or an ice pack directly to the surface of the painful tooth, as this can make the pain more severe.

• Inflamed teeth are often very sensitive to extreme cold or heat, so direct contact with ice can increase sensitivity.

• For safe tooth pain relief, always apply the compress to the outside of the cheek rather than directly on the tooth or gum.

Tip 3: Use numbing gel for tooth pain

Use over-the-counter numbing gel

• You can purchase numbing gels for teeth and gums at a pharmacy to temporarily help with tooth pain relief.

• Apply a small amount of gel directly to the painful tooth or gum area according to the product's instructions.

• The gel usually takes effect quite quickly and can help reduce pain for several hours, allowing you to eat or rest more comfortably.

Use correctly for effectiveness

• Before applying the gel, wash your hands thoroughly and gently dry the area if possible.

• Use only the recommended amount, avoiding applying too much or using it too frequently.

• This is only a temporary measure to aid in tooth pain treatment and does not replace treating the underlying cause of the pain.

Avoid swallowing the gel after application

• Saliva can dilute the gel, causing the medication to spread to the tongue or throat and reducing its effectiveness in the painful tooth area.

• After application, avoid swallowing immediately and refrain from eating or drinking for the period recommended by the manufacturer to allow the medication to work better.

• If irritation, unusual prolonged numbness, or the pain does not subside, you should stop using it and see a dentist for examination.

Notes on treating tooth pain

• Numbing gel only helps relieve symptoms temporarily when you're looking for ways to stop a toothache.

• If the pain lasts more than 1–2 days, is accompanied by gum swelling, fever, pus, or radiates to the jaw, ear, or neck, see a dental clinic promptly for diagnosis and proper tooth pain treatment according to the underlying cause.

Tip 4: Proper oral hygiene

Clean your mouth to relieve pain

• Some cases of tooth pain occur due to food trapped between teeth, especially if you have tooth decay or gingivitis.

• Thorough oral hygiene can remove irritants, helping to reduce pain and prevent inflammation from progressing.

• If you're wondering how to stop a toothache, start by cleaning your oral cavity before applying other pain relief measures.

Use dental floss to clean between teeth

• Gently slide dental floss into the painful tooth gap, guiding the floss down to the gum line, then curve it tightly against the tooth surface to clean plaque and food debris.

• Move the floss up and down gently, avoiding harsh pulling as it can damage the gums and cause bleeding.

• Maintaining a daily flossing habit not only helps with tooth pain treatment but also reduces the risk of tooth decay and gingivitis.

Brush gently in the painful area

• Brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush for at least 2 minutes, focusing on cleaning the painful area but without scrubbing too hard.

• If the cause is gingivitis, regular plaque removal can help reduce inflammation and improve pain over time.

• Using fluoride toothpaste also helps protect tooth enamel and supports tooth pain treatment due to early-stage tooth decay.

Rinse your mouth to remove bacteria and food particles

• After brushing and flossing, rinse your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash or warm salt water to clean the oral cavity.

• Some studies show that propolis has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. If using a propolis-containing solution, choose a product that meets quality standards and use it according to the manufacturer's instructions or a healthcare professional's advice.

• Proper rinsing helps remove residual food particles, aids in tooth pain treatment, and improves gum health.

Maintain daily hygiene habits

• Follow all the above steps at least twice a day, even after the pain has subsided.

• Maintaining good oral hygiene helps limit plaque buildup, reducing the risk of recurrent tooth pain, tooth decay, and gum diseases.

• If the pain persists, recurs frequently, or is accompanied by swelling, fever, or pus, you should see a dentist for examination and proper tooth pain treatment based on the underlying cause.

Tip 5: Warm salt water rinse

Rinse with salt water to relieve pain

• If tooth pain is caused by minor trauma or gum irritation, rinsing with warm salt water can help soothe the pain and clean the oral cavity.

• Salt water has the effect of cleaning food debris, reducing the number of bacteria in the mouth, and helping to reduce minor inflammation. However, this method cannot replace tooth pain treatment if the cause is tooth decay, pulpitis, or a dental abscess.

Prepare salt water correctly

• Dissolve about 1/2–1 teaspoon of sea salt in a cup of warm water (about 240 ml).

• Stir well until the salt is completely dissolved before use.

• Use lukewarm water, avoiding water that is too hot as it can increase sensitivity in vulnerable teeth.

Rinse using the correct technique

• Take a mouthful of salt water, rinse gently for about 30–60 seconds to allow the solution to contact the painful tooth area and surrounding gums.

• Then spit it out; do not swallow the salt water.

• Repeat until the entire cup of salt water is used to enhance the effectiveness of cleaning the oral cavity.

Perform regularly every day

• You can rinse with salt water 2–3 times a day until symptoms subside.

• If you're wondering how to stop a toothache, this is a simple and easy home remedy, especially when combined with proper brushing and flossing.

• If tooth pain lasts more than 1–2 days, worsens, or is accompanied by facial swelling, fever, pus, or difficulty swallowing, see a dentist promptly for proper tooth pain treatment according to the underlying cause and to prevent complications.

Part 2: What medication to take for tooth pain? Medical treatment methods

Method 1: When to see a dentist?

Don't delay if the pain doesn't subside

• Not all cases of tooth pain can resolve on their own. If the cause is tooth decay, pulpitis, an abscess, or an infection, home remedies only provide temporary pain relief.

• If the pain persists or worsens, you should see a dentist for diagnosis and proper tooth pain treatment according to the underlying cause, to avoid complications affecting your teeth and jawbone.

Fever or chills

• If tooth pain is accompanied by fever, chills, or general malaise, this could be a sign of a spreading infection.

• This condition requires prompt examination and treatment, as oral infections can become serious if not controlled.

Pus or discharge around the tooth

• Pus or unusual discharge from the gums or around the tooth root is often a sign of a dental abscess or infection.

• You should not try to squeeze or pop the pus pocket yourself, as this can spread the bacteria further.

• Go to a dental clinic as soon as possible for safe tooth pain treatment and management of the infection.

The pain worsens despite medication

• If painkillers have been taken as directed but the pain persists or recurs after each meal, it is highly likely that the tooth has severe decay or pulp inflammation.

• In this case, delaying treatment can lead to deeper damage and increase the risk of needing root canal treatment or tooth extraction.

• If you are wondering how to relieve a toothache, seeing a dentist is a necessary solution instead of just continuing to take painkillers.

Wisdom tooth pain

• Pain in the wisdom tooth area, especially when the tooth is misaligned or impacted, can cause gum inflammation, swelling, and affect adjacent teeth.

• The dentist will examine the area clinically and take X-rays to assess whether treatment or wisdom tooth extraction is necessary.

Difficulty swallowing or breathing

• If toothache is accompanied by significant facial or jaw swelling, difficulty swallowing, difficulty opening the mouth, or difficulty breathing, go to a hospital or emergency room immediately.

• This could be a sign of a dental abscess or an infection spreading to the deep tissues of the head and neck. If not treated promptly, this condition can lead to serious and life-threatening complications.

Do not self-treat for too long at home

• Methods such as saltwater rinses, cold compresses, or painkillers only provide temporary relief for toothache.

• If the pain lasts for more than 1-2 days, recurs frequently, or is accompanied by unusual signs, you should see a dentist soon for effective toothache treatment and maximum tooth preservation.

Method 2: Dental filling for tooth decay

Dental filling to protect decayed teeth

• If toothache is caused by tooth decay damaging the enamel and dentin, making the internal nerves sensitive, the dentist may recommend a dental filling.

• Filling material will fill the lost tooth tissue, helping to protect the tooth pulp from irritating agents such as hot and cold food and drinks, and bacteria.

• This is a common method of toothache treatment when the damage has not yet spread to the pulp.

How is the dental filling procedure performed?

• The dentist will remove the decayed or damaged tooth tissue.

• After cleaning the damaged area, the cavity will be filled with specialized filling material such as composite or other suitable dental materials.

• Finally, the filling will be shaped and polished to restore the tooth's form and chewing function.

Benefits of dental filling

• Helps reduce sensitivity and treat toothache caused by irritation to the internal nerves of the tooth.

• Prevents bacteria from further entering the tooth structure, thereby reducing the risk of pulpitis or dental abscess.

• Preserves the natural tooth, restores chewing ability, and improves aesthetics.

Do not delay treatment

• If tooth decay is not filled promptly, the cavity can grow larger, allowing bacteria to penetrate the tooth pulp.

• At that point, the pain is usually more severe, and the patient may need root canal treatment or even tooth extraction.

• If you are wondering how to relieve a toothache, see a dentist as soon as you notice tooth decay or experience sensitivity or pain when eating or drinking to get early toothache treatment and maximum tooth preservation.

Method 3: Root canal treatment for infected teeth

Root canal treatment when tooth pulp is infected

• If toothache is caused by infected tooth pulp or an abscess, the dentist often recommends root canal treatment (pulp removal) to eliminate the source of infection and preserve the natural tooth.

• This method helps remove inflamed or necrotic pulp tissue, cleans the root canal system, and prevents bacteria from spreading further.

• This is one of the effective methods of toothache treatment when the damage has spread to the pulp but the tooth can still be preserved.

How is the root canal treatment procedure performed?

1. The dentist will perform a clinical examination and X-rays to assess the extent of the tooth damage.

2. Before the procedure, the treatment area will be anesthetized locally to reduce pain and help the patient feel more comfortable.

3. The dentist makes a small opening in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp chamber, then removes the infected pulp and cleans the entire root canal system.

4. After disinfection, the root canal will be sealed with specialized material to prevent bacteria from re-entering.

5. Depending on the extent of tooth tissue loss, the dentist may fill the tooth or place a crown to restore its strength and chewing function.

Abscess drainage may be necessary

• If a dental abscess causes significant swelling or pus accumulation, the dentist may perform drainage to remove pus before or during treatment.

• This procedure helps reduce pressure, alleviate pain, and effectively control infection.

• In some cases, the patient may also be prescribed antibiotics if the infection has spread to surrounding tissues or there are systemic signs.

Is root canal treatment painful?

• Thanks to local anesthesia, most patients only feel pressure or slight discomfort during the treatment, rather than severe pain as many people fear.

• After the anesthesia wears off, the tooth may be mildly sensitive for a few days and usually improves with painkillers as directed by the dentist.

• If severe pain, increased swelling, or fever occurs after treatment, you should revisit the dentist for a check-up.

Early treatment helps preserve teeth

• If treatment is delayed when the tooth pulp is infected, bacteria can spread to the tooth roots and jawbone, increasing the risk of tooth loss or widespread infection.

• If you are looking for ways to relieve a toothache, timely root canal treatment not only effectively treats toothache but also increases the chances of preserving the natural tooth long-term.

Method 4: Tooth extraction when restoration is not possible

Tooth extraction when the tooth is beyond repair

• If a tooth is severely decayed, extensively fractured, seriously infected, or damaged to the extent that it cannot be treated and preserved, the dentist may recommend tooth extraction.

• This is the last resort to eliminate the source of pain and prevent the infection from spreading to other teeth or surrounding tissues.

• In some cases of toothache, tooth extraction is the safest and most effective method of toothache treatment when methods like fillings or root canal treatment are no longer suitable.

Primary tooth extraction in children

• For severely damaged primary teeth, dentists usually consider extraction if the tooth cannot be treated or poses a risk to the developing permanent tooth.

• After extraction, the dentist will monitor the eruption process of the permanent tooth to ensure normal development of the dentition.

Tooth restoration after extraction

• After tooth extraction, adults should discuss restoration options with their dentist, such as dental bridges or implant placement, to replace the missing tooth.

• Tooth restoration helps maintain chewing ability, improves aesthetics, and prevents adjacent teeth from shifting from their original positions.

• If a tooth is lost for a long time without restoration, the risk of jawbone resorption and malocclusion increases.

Wisdom teeth are often recommended for extraction

• Misaligned, impacted, or crowded wisdom teeth often do not provide significant benefits for chewing function but can easily cause toothache, gum inflammation, tooth decay, or affect adjacent teeth.

• In many cases, dentists will recommend wisdom tooth extraction to prevent long-term complications.

• If a wisdom tooth is in a complex position or impacted in the jawbone, the extraction process may require specialized surgical techniques.

Tooth extraction procedure and recovery

• Before extraction, the dentist will administer local anesthesia to reduce pain throughout the procedure. In some special cases, such as overly anxious patients or complex impacted wisdom teeth, sedation or general anesthesia may be administered as assessed by the doctor.

• After tooth extraction, the recovery period usually lasts about 1 week, depending on the tooth's location, the extent of intervention, and each person's health condition.

• To promote wound healing, follow post-extraction care instructions, maintain proper oral hygiene, and attend follow-up appointments.

Do not delay treatment when indicated

• If the dentist determines that the tooth cannot be preserved, delaying extraction can lead to the spread of infection, increasing the risk of damage to the jawbone and adjacent teeth.

• If you are wondering how to relieve a toothache, discuss with your dentist to choose the most suitable method for toothache treatment, and also consider tooth restoration solutions after extraction to ensure long-term oral health.

Part 3: Folk remedies for toothache with natural herbs

Tip 1: Use clove oil to relieve toothache

Apply clove oil for temporary pain relief

• Clove oil is a folk remedy widely used to help treat toothache at home due to its eugenol content – a compound with mild anesthetic, analgesic, and antibacterial properties.

• While some studies show that eugenol can provide short-term pain relief, clove oil cannot replace professional toothache treatments performed by a dentist, especially when the cause is tooth decay, pulpitis, or a dental abscess.

How to use correctly

• Wash hands thoroughly before use.

• Dab 1-2 drops of clove oil onto a clean cotton swab or cotton ball.

• Gently apply to the aching tooth or gum area for a few minutes, then discard the cotton swab.

• Can be repeated several times a day if needed, but should be used according to the manufacturer's instructions and not abused for prolonged periods.

Notes when using clove oil

• Do not apply too much clove oil as high concentrations can cause irritation or burns to the oral mucosa.

• Avoid swallowing clove oil and limit contact of the oil with healthy gums or the tongue.

• Do not self-administer to young children without guidance from a doctor or dentist.

When to see a dentist?

• If you are looking for ways to relieve a toothache, clove oil only helps soothe symptoms temporarily and does not treat the underlying cause of the pain.

• See a dentist if the toothache lasts more than 1-2 days, worsens, or is accompanied by swelling, fever, pus, or difficulty opening the mouth. Early treatment will help treat toothache more effectively and reduce the risk of complications.

Tip 2: Should alcohol be used to relieve toothache?

Alcohol is not a toothache remedy

• Using strong alcohol like whiskey or vodka to relieve toothache is a folk remedy that has been passed down for a long time.

• However, there is currently no high-quality scientific evidence to prove that this method can treat toothache or address the underlying cause of the pain.

• Alcohol can only create a slight numbing sensation for a short time upon contact with the mucous membrane, but it does not help eliminate tooth decay, pulpitis, or infection.

Do not apply alcohol directly to teeth or gums

• Using a cotton swab soaked in alcohol and placing it on an aching tooth can irritate the oral mucosa, especially if the gums are inflamed or have an open wound.

• High alcohol concentration can also dry out the mucous membrane and make the damaged area more sensitive.

• Therefore, dental associations currently do not recommend using alcohol as a home remedy for toothache.

Discontinue use if irritation occurs

• If you have used it and notice red, burning, swollen, or increased pain in the gums, stop immediately.

• Rinse your mouth with clean water or physiological saline to remove any residual alcohol in the oral cavity.

• If irritation symptoms persist, you should see a dentist for examination.

Prioritize methods with proven effectiveness

• If you are looking for ways to relieve a toothache, you should prioritize scientifically proven methods such as using painkillers as directed, rinsing with warm saltwater, applying a cold compress to the cheek area, and maintaining good oral hygiene.

• Most importantly, see a dentist to identify the cause of the pain and treat toothache correctly. This helps resolve the problem thoroughly and prevent complications such as pulpitis or dental abscess.

Tip 3: Rinsing with hydrogen peroxide correctly

Only use hydrogen peroxide suitable for oral cavity

• 3% hydrogen peroxide solution can help clean the oral cavity, reduce the number of bacteria, and help reduce irritation in the gum area.

• This method only supports oral hygiene and cannot treat toothache or underlying causes such as tooth decay, pulpitis, or dental abscess.

• Only use hydrogen peroxide when the product is clearly stated as suitable for oral care or as directed by a dentist.

Dilute before use

• Dilute 3% hydrogen peroxide with clean water at a 1:1 ratio.

• Stir gently to ensure the solution is evenly mixed before rinsing.

• Do not use concentrated or undiluted hydrogen peroxide as it can irritate the oral mucosa.

Rinse correctly

• Swish a sufficient amount of the solution gently for about 30 seconds, then spit it out.

• After rinsing with hydrogen peroxide, rinse again with clean water to remove any residual solution.

• Absolutely do not swallow hydrogen peroxide as it can irritate the digestive tract and affect health.

Do not overuse hydrogen peroxide

• Do not use hydrogen peroxide daily for rinsing or for extended periods without a dentist's instruction.

• Overuse of hydrogen peroxide can irritate the mucous membrane, slow down tissue healing, and affect the natural microbial balance in the oral cavity.

When to see a dentist?

• If you are looking for ways to relieve a toothache, rinsing with hydrogen peroxide is only a temporary cleaning aid, not a definitive toothache treatment.

• If toothache persists, recurs frequently, or is accompanied by swelling, fever, pus, or persistent bad breath, see a dentist for diagnosis and appropriate toothache treatment based on the underlying cause.

Tip 4: Acupressure to support toothache relief

Try acupressure for temporary pain relief

• Acupressure is a traditional medicine method used by many to help alleviate pain, including toothache.

• Some studies suggest that acupressure can stimulate the nervous system and increase the release of endorphins—the body's natural pain relievers. However, current scientific evidence is limited and insufficient to confirm its effectiveness as a toothache treatment.

• Therefore, acupressure should only be considered a supportive measure, not a replacement for dental treatment.

Locate the Hegu (LI4) acupressure point

• The Hegu point is located on the back of the hand, in the web between the thumb and index finger when they are brought together.

• This point is commonly used in traditional medicine to help relieve pain in the head, face, and teeth.

How to apply acupressure correctly

1. Using the thumb of your other hand, press on the Hegu point.

2. Massage and maintain moderate pressure for about 1–2 minutes.

3. Repeat on the other hand if needed.

4. If you experience significant pain or discomfort when pressing, reduce the pressure or stop.

Notes on application

• If you are looking for ways to stop a toothache, acupressure may help some people feel better for a short time, but the effectiveness varies from person to person.

• Do not rely solely on acupressure to treat toothache if the pain is persistent, recurrent, or worsening.

• Pregnant women should consult a doctor before applying acupressure to the Hegu point, as this point is often advised with caution during pregnancy.

Combine with dental treatment

• To effectively treat toothache, you should combine acupressure with proven methods such as proper oral hygiene, pain medication as directed, and a visit to the dentist to determine the cause.

• If your toothache is accompanied by swelling, fever, pus discharge, or lasts longer than 1–2 days, visit a dental clinic as soon as possible for appropriate treatment.

Tip 5: Is oil pulling effective?

Oil pulling as a supportive measure

• Oil pulling with coconut oil is a traditional method used by many to improve oral health.

• Some small studies show that this method can help reduce plaque and bacteria in the oral cavity when combined with proper brushing. However, current evidence is not enough to confirm that coconut oil can treat toothache or conditions like cavities, pulp inflammation, or dental abscesses.

• If you are looking for ways to stop a toothache, you should only consider this a supportive measure, not a replacement for dental treatment.

How to oil pull correctly

1. Put about 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of virgin coconut oil in your mouth.

2. Swish gently, moving the oil around your mouth for about 15–20 minutes.

3. Do not swish too vigorously to avoid jaw fatigue.

4. After completing, spit out all the oil.

Do not swallow the oil after pulling

• During oil pulling, the coconut oil can mix with saliva, plaque, and bacteria in the oral cavity.

• Therefore, you should not swallow the oil after pulling.

• After spitting out the oil, rinse your mouth with clean water and brush your teeth as usual for a more effective oral cleaning.

Do not pour oil down the drain

• After use, spit the oil into a trash can or paper towel and discard it.

• Coconut oil can solidify at low temperatures, increasing the risk of plumbing blockages if poured directly down the drain.

Not a substitute for dental treatment

• Oil pulling cannot treat toothache caused by cavities, pulp inflammation, cracked teeth, or infections.

• If your toothache is prolonged, recurrent, or accompanied by swelling, fever, pus discharge, or difficulty opening your mouth, you should see a dentist for diagnosis and appropriate toothache treatment. Early treatment will help preserve your teeth and prevent serious complications.

Tips to help reduce and prevent toothache

Seek immediate medical attention for severe pain

• If you experience severe, continuous toothache or it is accompanied by facial swelling, fever, difficulty swallowing, or difficulty breathing, go to a dental clinic or hospital as soon as possible.

• These can be signs of a serious infection requiring emergency treatment to avoid complications.

Brush your teeth correctly every day

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.

• Proper oral hygiene helps reduce plaque, limits cavities, and is one of the most effective ways to prevent toothache.

Regular dental check-ups

• Whether you have symptoms or not, you should have regular dental check-ups approximately every six months or as recommended by your dentist.

• Early detection of cavities, cracked teeth, or gum disease helps treat toothache from its root cause before the pain appears.

Floss daily

• Clean between your teeth with dental floss every day to remove plaque and food debris that toothbrushes struggle to reach.

• This habit helps reduce the risk of cavities and gum inflammation, but it is not a method to treat toothache once the pain has appeared.

Limit hard foods when experiencing toothache

• While experiencing toothache, avoid chewing hard foods such as ice cubes, hard nuts, or hard candies to prevent further damage to the tooth and increased pain.

• Prioritize soft, easy-to-chew foods and avoid using the side of your mouth where the pain is located.

Reduce sugar intake in your diet

• Eating too many sweets, sugary drinks, and foods high in sugar increases the risk of tooth decay because bacteria produce acids that damage tooth enamel.

• Limiting sugar is one of the effective ways to prevent toothache and protect long-term oral health.

Do not apply pain relievers directly to the tooth without guidance

• Do not drop liquid pain relievers directly into a cavity or place cotton saturated with medication on the tooth without a dentist's instruction.

• Some medications can cause burns or irritation to the oral mucosa if not used correctly.

• Similarly, do not allow an aspirin tablet to dissolve directly on your tooth or gums. Aspirin should only be taken as directed, as direct contact with the mucosa can cause chemical burns.

Be cautious with warm compresses

• A warm compress may only help relax muscles or reduce discomfort in some cases of jaw pain not caused by infection.

• If toothache is accompanied by swelling due to an abscess or acute inflammation, a warm compress can increase blood flow to the inflamed area and worsen swelling and pain.

• If you are wondering how to stop a toothache, a cold compress on the outside of the cheek is usually a safer option in the initial stage.

Prioritize treating the root cause

• Home remedies only provide temporary symptom relief and cannot treat toothache caused by cavities, pulp inflammation, cracked teeth, or abscesses.

• To effectively treat toothache and prevent recurrence, visit a dentist as soon as possible to determine the cause and choose the appropriate treatment method.

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Content edited by: Leigh Kennedy Ly.

Information consulted and verified by expert: James Mitchell.