How to Stop a Bad Toothache

Toothaches range from mild to severe and can be caused by several issues, such as having food stuck between your teeth and inflammation. Some people see a dentist when they experience a toothache; oftentimes, however, you can stop pain without seeking professional help. There are several natural and at-home remedies to quickly ease discomfort.

Things You'll Need

• Ibuprofen or aspirin
• Dental floss
• Topical, oral antiseptic (optional)
• Clove oil (optional)

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Instructions

• 1

  Take ibuprofen or aspirin to stop any inflammation and dull pain associated with a toothache. Read the package label first, and take as directed.

• 2

  Floss between your teeth to dislodge food particles trapped between your teeth. Trapped food can trigger a toothache.

• 3

  Apply a topical, oral antiseptic to the affected tooth as directed to numb a toothache pain. Over-the-counter oral antiseptics can be found at any drugstore.

• 4

  Avoid hot and cold drinks. Drinking hot beverages, such as coffee and iced-cold drinks, can aggravate an existing toothache and worsen pain. Drink beverages at room temperature until the pain subsides.

• 5

  Dab clove oil on a cotton swab and then bite down on the swab to ease your toothache pain. Drug stores and health food stores carry this liquid oil.

• 6

  Go to the dentist. Pain that doesn't improve with home treatment can signal tooth decay or other dental problems. Arrange a consultation with a dentist.