Tooth infections can be painful and disruptive, affecting your health and daily life. While professional dental treatment is essential for addressing severe infections, some natural remedies can provide relief and support the healing process. In this blog, we will explore various natural treatment for tooth infection that may help alleviate symptoms and complement traditional dental care for tooth infections.
Treating Tooth Infections – Natural Remedies
A few natural treatments for tooth infections are as follows:
1. Salt Water Rinse
A simple yet effective natural treatment for tooth infection is a saltwater rinse. Salt has natural antibacterial properties that can help reduce inflammation and cleanse the affected area. Half a teaspoon of salt should be dissolved in a cup of warm water to make a saltwater rinse. Rinse your mouth with this solution several times a day, especially after meals, to help soothe the pain and promote healing. This remedy also helps in peri implant disease treatment.
How it works: Salt helps to draw out infection and reduce swelling. It also aids in flushing away food particles and bacteria from the infected area.
2. Clove Oil
Clove oil has been used for centuries as a remedy for tooth pain and infections. It contains eugenol, a natural compound with strong analgesic and antiseptic properties. To use clove oil, apply a small amount directly to the affected tooth using a cotton swab. You can also mix a few drops of clove oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, before application.
How it works: Eugenol in clove oil acts as a natural pain reliever and helps to kill bacteria, reducing the severity of the infection.
3. Garlic
Garlic is renowned for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a beneficial and natural remedy for tooth infections. Allicin, a compound found in garlic, has been shown to fight bacteria and reduce pain. To use garlic for tooth infections, crush a fresh garlic clove and apply it directly to the affected area, or mix it with a small amount of salt.
How it works: Allicin helps to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation, while garlic’s natural compounds contribute to pain relief and infection control.
4. Turmeric
Turmeric is another powerful natural remedy with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, can help reduce swelling and fight infection. To use turmeric for tooth infections, create a paste by mixing turmeric powder with a small amount of water or coconut oil. Put the paste on the affected spot and let it stay there for 10-15 minutes. Then, wash it off.
How it works: Curcumin in turmeric helps inhibit bacterial growth and reduce inflammation, providing relief from pain and promoting healing.
5. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is known for its strong antiseptic and antimicrobial properties, making it an effective natural treatment for tooth infection. Mix some tea tree oil with a base oil like coconut oil. Put this mix on the affected tooth with a cotton stick. Avoid swallowing tea tree oil, as it is potent and should be used with caution.
How it works: Tea tree oil contains compounds that kill bacteria and reduce inflammation, aiding in infection control and pain relief.
6. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is well-known for its soothing and healing potential. It helps in reducing pain and swelling associated with tooth infections. To use aloe vera, apply fresh aloe vera gel directly to the affected area or use aloe vera juice as a mouth rinse.
How it works: Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help to soothe the affected area and promote healing.
7. Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse
Hydrogen peroxide is an antiseptic that can help to kill bacteria and promote oral health. To use hydrogen peroxide as a mouth rinse, dilute it with equal parts water. Rinse your mouth with the solution for 30 seconds, then spit it out and rinse your mouth with plain water.
How it works: Hydrogen peroxide helps to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation, providing temporary relief from tooth infection symptoms.
8. Warm Compress
Warm compression applied to the affected area can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Soak a clean cloth in warm water and apply it to the outside of your cheek near the infected tooth. For best results, this process should be repeated several times intermittently for a day.
How it works: The warmth of the compress improves blood circulation and reduces muscle tension, easing pain and swelling.
9. Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea has natural antiseptic and soothing properties that can help relieve tooth infection symptoms. Make a cup of peppermint tea and consume it at a lukewarm temperature. You can also use it as a mouth rinse or sip it slowly to help alleviate pain.
How it works: Peppermint has antibacterial properties and can help to soothe the affected area, reducing discomfort and promoting healing.
10. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has natural antibacterial properties and can help balance the pH levels in your mouth. To use ACV as a remedy, dilute it with water (one part ACV to two parts water) and use it as a mouth rinse.
How it works: ACV helps to kill bacteria and maintain oral health, which can be beneficial for managing tooth infection symptoms.
Important Considerations
While natural cures for tooth infections can offer relief and support, they are not a substitute for professional dental care. Tooth infections can lead to serious complications if left untreated, and it is crucial to see a dentist as soon as possible. Natural remedies should be used in conjunction with, not in place of, proper dental treatment.
When to Seek Professional Help
You should seek out a dental professional in the following situations:
- If the infection doesn’t get better in a few days.
- If you have excruciating pain, fever, or oedema.
- If the infection moves to other areas of your body.
Conclusion
Natural treatments for tooth infections can be an effective way to alleviate the associated discomfort and support healing. Salt water rinses, clove oil, garlic, turmeric, and other remedies offer temporary relief and can complement professional dental care. However, always seek the advice of a dentist for proper diagnosis and treatment of tooth infections. By combining natural remedies with professional care, you can manage your symptoms more effectively and promote overall oral health.
Consults Our Periodontist today at Periodontal Specialists!
Are you suffering from a tooth infection? Don’t wait—combine these remedies with expert dental advice at Periodontal Specialists. Our experienced team can also guide you on an appropriate dental hygiene routine and direct you on preventative care.
Schedule your appointment to get started.
