Thursday, June 19, 2008

Dealing with toothaches

Toothaches are probably one of the worse pains a person can endure. When it strikes, the throbbing pain seems to radiate and affect our whole being: we can’t eat, we can’t talk, and we can’t sleep! The pain can be unbearable and we’ll do practically anything we can to make the pain stop. Toothaches are usually caused by decay, a fracture in the teeth, and cavities. The best way to deal with it is to see a dentist to determine the cause and prescribe the appropriate medications or necessary procedures. My friend Shaun Olmstead suggests the following practical home remedies to soothe toothaches while waiting for a dental appointment.

Combine two tablespoons of salt with one cup of boiling water; take a mouthful of water as hot as possible and slosh it around your mouth near the tooth and repeat as necessary.
It may help to dislodge a piece of food that is stuck in between teeth causing pain or may temporarily help with toothache by disinfecting the mouth. Use sea salt as it has more beneficial minerals than iodized table salt. Warm water will help to both dissolve the salt and will also feel more comforting than the shock of cold water on a sore or sensitive tooth.

Rub the sore spot with your finger or a cotton swab dipped in cloves, clove oil, vanilla extract or almond extract if you have them. This can create an analgesic effect and give you substantial relief.

Whiskey can also help. Swish whiskey around in your mouth without swallowing. It can numb the pain of your teeth and gums and provide a disinfectant action like saltwater.

Eat yogurt. Yogurt's healthy bacteria can help soothe mouth pain and clear up sores in the mouth.

Floss your teeth gently to dislodge any food that might be hitting a nerve between teeth or causing discomfort.

These are just home remedies that will only help get you through the pain. You still need to go to the dentist to get proper treatment.

No comments: