# Home Remedies for Toothache Relief If you're suffering from a toothache and can't see a dentist immediately, here are some home remedies that might provide temporary relief: ## Saltwater Rinse Mix half a teaspoon of table salt with 8 ounces of warm water. Swish it around in your mouth and then spit it out. This can help reduce inflammation and clean the affected area. ## Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water. Rinse your mouth with the solution and spit it out. Do not swallow it. This can help kill bacteria and reduce pain. ## Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers For children, acetaminophen is recommended. Adults can use ibuprofen, naproxen, or acetaminophen. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the tooth or gums as it can cause irritation. ## Cold Compress If your face is swollen, apply an ice pack to your cheek for 15-20 minutes at a time. This can help reduce swelling and numb the pain. ## OTC Anesthetics Apply gels or liquids containing benzocaine directly to the sore tooth and gums. These can numb the area temporarily. ## Ice Hold a piece of ice in your hand on the same side as the sore tooth. Rub it between your thumb and forefinger for about 7 minutes. This can help interrupt pain signals to your brain. ## Clove Oil Apply clove oil directly to the affected area or soak a cotton ball and dab it on the tooth and gums. Clove oil has natural numbing properties. ## Garlic Chew a piece of garlic or place chopped bits on the affected tooth. Garlic releases allicin, which has natural antibacterial properties. ## Vanilla Extract Apply a small amount of vanilla extract to the aching tooth and gums using a cotton ball or your finger. The alcohol in vanilla extract can numb the pain temporarily. ## Peppermint Tea Place a cooled peppermint tea bag on the affected area. Peppermint has soothing properties that can help alleviate pain. ## Traditional Remedies Some traditional remedies include using coconut oil, cayenne pepper, tea tree oil, and turmeric. While these may offer some relief, their effectiveness is not well-documented. Remember, these remedies are only for temporary relief. It's important to see a dentist as soon as possible to address the underlying issue.