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A broken or decayed tooth can cause severe pain, sensitivity, and even infection if left untreated. While seeing a dentist is the best course of action, you may need natural remedies to manage pain and prevent further damage temporarily.
Here are some effective home treatments to ease discomfort and protect your tooth until professional care is available.
1. Saltwater Rinse (For Pain and Infection Prevention)
Salt has natural antibacterial properties that help reduce inflammation and prevent infection.
How to use:
Mix ½ teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water.
Swish in your mouth for 30 seconds, focusing on the affected area.
Repeat 2-3 times daily.
2. Clove Oil (Natural Pain Reliever)
Clove oil contains eugenol, a natural anesthetic and antiseptic that numbs pain and fights bacteria.
How to use:
Dab 1-2 drops of clove oil on a cotton ball and apply it to the painful tooth.
Alternatively, mix with a carrier oil (like coconut oil) to avoid irritation.
3. Garlic (Antibacterial & Pain Relief)
Garlic has allicin, a compound that fights bacteria and reduces pain.
How to use:
Crush a garlic clove to release its juices.
Apply directly to the tooth or mix with salt for extra relief.
Leave for 5-10 minutes, then rinse.
4. Cold Compress (For Swelling & Numbing Pain)
A cold compress helps reduce swelling and numbs the area temporarily.
How to use:
Wrap ice in a cloth and hold it against your cheek near the painful tooth.
Apply for 15 minutes on, 15 minutes off.
5. Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse (For Infection Control)
Hydrogen peroxide (3% food-grade) helps kill bacteria and reduce infection risk.
How to use:
Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water.
Swish for 30 seconds, then rinse with water.
Use once daily (do not swallow).
6. Turmeric Paste (Anti-inflammatory & Healing)
Turmeric has curcumin, which reduces pain and inflammation.
How to use:
Mix turmeric powder with water or coconut oil to form a paste.
Apply to the affected tooth and leave for 5-10 minutes before rinsing.
7. Avoid Certain Foods
To prevent further damage:
Avoid sugary, acidic, or hard foods.
Eat soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soups.
Drink through a straw if sensitivity is severe.
8. Temporary Filling (For Broken Teeth)
If a piece of your tooth has broken off, you can use dental wax or sugar-free gum as a temporary cover to protect the exposed area.
When to See a Dentist Immediately
While these remedies provide temporary relief, a broken or decayed tooth requires professional treatment. Seek emergency dental care if you experience:
Severe, throbbing pain
Swelling in the face or gums
Fever or signs of infection (pus, bad taste)
Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Final Thoughts
These natural remedies can help manage pain and reduce infection risk, but they are not permanent solutions. Always visit a dentist as soon as possible to prevent complications like abscesses or tooth loss.