Unbearable Tooth Pain: What to Do at Home to Stop Tooth Pain?

Toothache is something that can happen to anyone at any time in his or her life. And we never know if we’ll have a painkiller to help us with unbearable tooth pain. When it does, it turns very annoying, interrupting everyday activities and causing discomfort. 

There are many reasons why you could have tooth pain. For any of them, there is a solution! Let us see different reasons why your teeth could hurt and how to release the pain at home.

What Can Cause Severe Tooth Pain?

Severe tooth pain can arise from various dental and medical conditions. Understanding these causes is crucial for effective treatment and prevention. Here are the 9 primary factors contributing to severe tooth pain:

1. Tooth Decay: This is the most prevalent cause of tooth pain. Cavities form when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that erode tooth enamel, leading to inflammation of the tooth’s pulp (pulpitis) and severe pain if untreated.
2. Dental Abscess: An abscess occurs when the pulp of the tooth dies, creating a pocket of pus due to bacterial infection. This condition can cause intense pain and swelling, requiring immediate dental intervention.
3. Tooth Fracture: Cracks or fractures in a tooth can expose the sensitive inner pulp, leading to sharp pain, especially when biting or chewing.
4. Infected Gums: Conditions like gingivitis or periodontitis can cause inflammation and pain in the gums, which may radiate to the teeth.
5. Impacted Wisdom Teeth: When wisdom teeth do not have enough space to emerge properly, they can become impacted, leading to pain and discomfort in the surrounding teeth. In such cases, it is essential to consider wisdom teeth infection treatment, as impacted teeth can often result in infections that exacerbate discomfort and may require professional intervention.
6. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Grinding or clenching teeth can lead to wear and tear, resulting in pain and sensitivity due to the exposure of the tooth’s inner layers.
7. Damaged Fillings or Crowns: If dental restorations become loose or damaged, they can expose the underlying tooth structure, causing pain.
8. Referred Pain: Sometimes, pain perceived in the teeth can originate from other areas, such as the sinuses or even the heart. Conditions like sinusitis can cause upper tooth pain due to the proximity of tooth roots to the sinus cavities.
9. TMJ Disorders: Issues with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can cause pain in the jaw that may be felt as tooth pain, especially when opening the mouth widely.

5 Symptoms Associated with Severe Tooth Pain

5 main symptoms accompanying severe tooth pain may include:

• Throbbing or sharp pain in or around the tooth
• Sensitivity to hot or cold stimuli
• Swelling of the gums or face
• Fever or general malaise, indicating infection
• Pain during chewing or biting

Home Remedies for Toothache

Here are some effective home remedies that can provide relief for a toothache:

Saltwater Rinse

Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and rinse your mouth with it. Swish the solution around the affected tooth and spit it out. This helps reduce inflammation and kill bacteria.

Cold Compress

Apply a cold compress or ice pack to the outside of your cheek near the painful tooth. The cold helps constrict blood vessels, reduce swelling, and numb pain. Wrap the ice pack in a towel and hold it against your face for 15-20 minutes.

Clove Oil

Clove oil has natural anesthetic and antibacterial properties that can help relieve toothache pain. Soak a cotton ball with clove oil and gently dab it onto the affected tooth and surrounding gums. You can also mix clove oil with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil before applying.

Garlic

Garlic has natural antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. Crush a garlic clove to make a paste and apply it directly to the painful tooth. Alternatively, slowly chew on a fresh garlic clove to release its juices.

Peppermint Tea Bags

The menthol in peppermint has a numbing effect that can temporarily relieve toothache pain. Allow a used peppermint tea bag to cool slightly, and then place it directly on the affected tooth.

Vanilla Extract

The alcohol in vanilla extract can help numb pain. Use a cotton ball or your finger to apply a small amount of pure vanilla extract directly to the sore tooth.

Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse

Mix equal parts of 3% hydrogen peroxide and water, swish it in your mouth for about 30 seconds, then spit it out. This can help kill bacteria and reduce swelling.

Ginger and Cayenne Pepper Paste

Combine powdered ginger and cayenne pepper with a few drops of water to create a paste. Apply it to the affected area for its anti-inflammatory effects.

Baking Soda

Dissolve baking soda in water and use it as a mouthwash, or apply a wet cotton ball dipped in baking soda directly to the tooth to help reduce pain.

How Your Dentist May Treat a Toothache

Dentists treat severe toothaches through various methods based on the underlying cause. Here are the primary treatments they may use:

1. Diagnosis: A thorough examination, often including X-rays, to identify the issue.
2. Root Canal Treatment: For infections in the tooth’s pulp, root canal treatment involves removing the infected tissue and sealing the tooth.
3. Tooth Extraction: Necessary for severely damaged or decayed teeth that cannot be repaired.
4. Antibiotics: Prescribed to control infections, especially in cases with swelling or abscesses.
5. Pain Management: Dentists may recommend pain relievers and use local anesthetics during procedures.
6. Dental Fillings: For cavities, the decayed portion is removed and filled to restore the tooth.
7. Periodontal Treatment: In cases of gum disease, deep cleaning may be performed to remove plaque and tartar.
8. Emergency Care: Immediate treatment for urgent issues like trauma or knocked-out teeth. Contact your emergency dentist as soon as you can to relieve the pain and damage.

Are There Any Long-term Solutions for Preventing Unbearable Tooth Pain?

To prevent unbearable tooth pain in the long term, consider the following strategies:

1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to remove plaque and bacteria.
2. Regular Dental Check-ups: Visit the dentist at least twice a year for dental cleanings and examinations to catch issues early.
3. Healthy Diet: Limit sugary foods and drinks, and eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
4. Manage Stress: Use stress-reduction techniques to prevent teeth grinding (bruxism), which can lead to pain.
5. Use Protective Gear: Wear a mouthguard during contact sports to protect your teeth from injury.
6. Address Dental Issues Promptly: Seek professional help for any signs of dental problems to prevent complications.
7. Avoid Tobacco Products: Steer clear of smoking and tobacco use, which can contribute to gum disease and tooth decay.

Even though these remedies can help with unbearable tooth pain, they are not an official treatment for dental pain. If the pain lasts for more than a day or two, or if you have any other symptoms, such as fever, trouble biting, breathing, or swallowing, consult us or your local dentist immediately.

Dr Mahmoud Metwally

Dr Mahmoud Metwally, a second-generation dentist in Sunbury, moved to Australia in 2015 after clearing the Australian Dental Board exam. With over nine years of experience, Dr Mahmoud Metwally focuses on root canal treatments and cosmetic dentistry. As a dentist in Sunbury, he advocates for preventative care, minimally invasive dentistry, and prioritises patient comfort.