9 Home Remedies That Work Like a Panacea for Toothache

They can give relief within minutes — explained simply.

1. Clove (Laung)

How it helps:
Clove contains eugenol, a natural anesthetic and antiseptic. It numbs the pain and kills bacteria causing infection.

How to use:
Put a clove on the painful tooth and bite gently OR apply clove oil with a cotton ball.

2. Saltwater Gargle

How it helps:
Warm salt water reduces inflammation, cleans the area, and kills germs. It also helps remove trapped food particles.

How to use:
Mix ½ tsp salt in warm water and rinse your mouth for 30 seconds.

3. Cold Compress

How it helps:
Ice reduces swelling and numbs the nerves around the tooth, giving quick pain relief.

How to use:
Wrap ice in a cloth and apply on the cheek for 10–15 minutes.

4. Garlic

How it helps:
Garlic has allicin, a powerful antibacterial compound. It fights infection and reduces pain.

How to use:
Crush a garlic clove and apply on the affected tooth for a few minutes.

5. Peppermint Tea Bag

How it helps:
Peppermint acts as a natural mild anesthetic. It soothes irritated gums and reduces sensitivity.

How to use:
Cool a used peppermint tea bag and place it on the painful area.

6. Hydrogen Peroxide (3%) Rinse

(Only if available and used carefully)
How it helps:
It kills bacteria, reduces plaque, and fights gum infection—often the real cause of tooth pain.

How to use:
Mix equal parts 3% hydrogen peroxide and water. Do NOT swallow.

7. Guava Leaves

How they help:
These leaves contain anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial substances that reduce gum swelling and infection.

How to use:
Chew one clean leaf OR boil leaves in water, cool it slightly, and use as a mouth rinse.

8. Asafoetida (Hing) With Lemon

How it helps:
This Ayurvedic remedy works magically for toothache. Hing has antibacterial properties, and lemon enhances its effect.

How to use:
Mix a pinch of hing with a few drops of warm lemon juice and apply on the tooth.

9. Warm Water + Turmeric Rinse

How it helps:
Turmeric’s curcumin is anti-inflammatory and antiseptic. It soothes pain and controls infection.

How to use:
Mix ½ tsp turmeric in warm water and rinse the mouth, or make a paste and apply directly.

Important Note

These home remedies can relieve pain temporarily, but they do not cure cavities, infections, or gum disease.
If pain lasts more than 24–48 hours, visiting a dentist is necessary.