Toothache doesn’t choose the time or place. It can wake you up in the middle of the night, disrupt your workday, or ruin your planned vacation. In those moments, the only question running through your mind is: “How do I make the tooth pain stop?”
Many people then turn to quick home remedies – salt on the tooth, clove, rakija (brandy)… And while some claim that “it works,” it’s important to understand that none of these methods address the real cause of the pain.
In this blog, we’ll explain why toothache occurs, what the most common causes are, whether natural remedies for toothache actually work, when the pain is a warning sign of a more serious problem, and how to help yourself while waiting to see the dentist.
What exactly is a toothache?
A toothache is not a disease, but a symptom – a sign that something is happening inside the tooth, the gums, or the surrounding tissue. It most commonly presents as:
- Throbbing pain
- A tooth that hurts when touched
- Pain that radiates to the jaw, ear, or temple
- Increased sensitivity to hot or cold
In some cases, a toothache can be a warning sign of serious conditions, such as spreading infections or even heart problems.
The most common causes of toothache
The most common causes of tooth pain are:
- Cavities – the destruction of tooth structure that initially doesn’t cause pain but later reaches the nerve.
- Tooth pulp inflammation – when bacteria enter the inside of the tooth and cause nerve inflammation.
- Tooth fracture – damage caused by impact, excessive biting force, or tooth aging.
- Bruxism – teeth grinding during the night or jaw clenching.
- Gum inflammation – untreated gingivitis or periodontitis.
- Sinus inflammation – can cause a sensation of pain in the upper teeth.
- Jaw problems (temporomandibular joint – TMJ) – pain that can mimic toothache.
- Toothache as referred pain in heart problems.
Why do we turn to home remedies?
The reasons why people use natural remedies or delay visiting the dentist are:
- Fear of pain and the dentist
- Lack of time
- Belief in the effectiveness of natural remedies
Unfortunately, these reasons often lead to delaying treatment and worsening the problem.
The most popular home remedies for toothache – do they really help?
1. Clove oil
- It contains eugenol, which has mild anesthetic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- It temporarily relieves pain but can irritate the gums or tongue.
2. Salt water
- Rinsing the mouth with saline solution disinfects and reduces pain.
- It is safe and simple.
3. Ice
- It can temporarily numb the painful area.
- It should not be applied directly to the skin.
4. Garlic
- A natural antibiotic that can slow down bacterial growth.
- It can cause unpleasant breath.
5. Alcohol – Rakija (fruit brandy)
- It has a numbing effect but is dangerous for children and does not solve the problem.
6. Peppermint tea
- A cold pack can reduce pain and swelling.
- It works briefly and is harmless.
7. Vanilla extract
- It has antiseptic and analgesic properties but contains alcohol.
- It is not recommended for children.
Effectiveness and safety of home remedies
| Home remedy | Efficiency (temporary) | Safety | Comments |
| Clove oil | Medium | Moderate | Possible irritation of the mucous membranes |
| Salt water | Good | High | Recommended as a first step |
| Ice | Good | High | Should not be directly on the skin |
| Garlic | Medium | High | Bad breath |
| Alcohol – Rakija (fruit brandy) | Low | Low | Dangerous for children |
| Peppermint tea | Good | High | Harmless, short-term effect |
| Vanilla extract | Low | Low | Contains alcohol, not for children |
Toothache tablets
When the pain becomes severe, many people turn to medication. Here are some of the most common:
- Paracetamol – the first choice for mild to moderate pain, safe during pregnancy.
- Ibuprofen – a stronger analgesic and anti-inflammatory.
- Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) – effective, but do not use before dental procedures.
- Ketonal, Caffetin – stronger medications, with mandatory consultation with a doctor.
Important: Do not take medication for a long time without the advice of a dentist or pharmacist.
When does a toothache become an emergency?
The following symptoms require an urgent dental examination:
- Swelling of the face or gums
- Temperature
- Purulent discharge
- Pain that lasts more than 48 hours
- Pain on touch and pressure
- Pain spreading to the ear or neck
What to do while waiting for the examination?
Until you see a dentist, you can:
- Hold ice on your cheek (wrapped in a cloth)
- Rinse your mouth with salt water.
- Avoid very hot and cold drinks
- Sleep with your head elevated.
- Record pain details for the dentist
Can a toothache go away on its own?
Very rare. The pain may temporarily stop, but the problem remains and may get worse.
How to prevent toothache?
Recommendations:
- Brushing teeth 2-3 times a day
- Using dental floss and mouthwash
- Limit the intake of sugar and carbonated drinks
- Regular dental check-ups (every 6 months)
Respond promptly to the first sensitivity or pain
FAQ
Can toothache be a symptom of pregnancy?
Yes, hormonal changes affect the gums and teeth.
What is the best medicine for toothache?
Visit the dentist – home remedies are only a temporary solution.
Is toothache dangerous?
It is possible that, if left untreated, the infection may spread.
Why does a tooth hurt only when touched?
It is often a sign of inflammation or tooth damage.
Dentist's advice: Don't wait for a toothache to go away on its own
Toothache is a symptom warning that something is wrong. If you feel that a tooth hurts when touched, have severe tooth inflammation, or persistent pain, the best thing you can do is to schedule an appointment with your dentist immediately.
If you’re not sure what’s causing the pain, contact us at Glowdent — we’re here to help you and prevent more serious complications.
A healthy, pain-free smile is possible, don't postpone a visit to the dentist!