Natural Remedies for Toothache
Time-tested natural remedies for toothache relief while you wait for dental care. Below you'll find evidence-based remedies that grandmothers have used for generations, now verified by modern medical research.
1. Clove Oil
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How It Helps
Clove oil contains eugenol, a natural analgesic and antiseptic that has been used in dentistry for centuries. It numbs the nerve endings in teeth and kills bacteria.
🔬 What the Research Says
A 2006 study in the Journal of Dentistry confirmed eugenol (the active compound in clove oil) has significant analgesic and antibacterial effects comparable to topical benzocaine for dental pain.
[1] Eugenol - from the remote Maluku Islands to the international marketplace - Journal of Dentistry (2006)
📋 How to Use
Dip a cotton ball in clove oil and apply directly to the painful tooth and surrounding gum. Hold in place for 5-10 minutes. Can also use whole cloves pressed against the tooth.
💊 Dosage
1-2 drops clove oil on cotton ball, applied to affected area up to 3 times daily until you can see a dentist.
⚠️ Side Effects & Cautions
May cause temporary burning sensation. Excessive use can irritate gum tissue. This is temporary relief - see a dentist for underlying issues.
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NOW Essential Oils Clove
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2. Garlic
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How It Helps
Allicin in garlic has potent antibacterial properties against oral pathogens. Crushing a garlic clove and applying it near the tooth can provide temporary antibacterial and analgesic relief.
🔬 What the Research Says
Research confirms garlic's significant antibacterial activity against common oral pathogens including Streptococcus mutans, the primary bacterium involved in tooth decay.
[1] Antibacterial activity of garlic against oral pathogens - Pertanika Journal (2015)
📋 How to Use
Crush a fresh garlic clove and apply to the affected area for 5-10 minutes. Can also chew a garlic clove on the affected side. Rinse mouth after.
💊 Dosage
1 crushed garlic clove applied to affected area, up to 3 times daily as temporary relief.
⚠️ Side Effects & Cautions
Burning sensation on gums. Strong taste and breath odor. Temporary relief only - see a dentist.
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Kyolic Aged Garlic Extract
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3. Turmeric
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How It Helps
Curcumin in turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can reduce gum inflammation and bacterial infection around an aching tooth.
🔬 What the Research Says
A meta-analysis in the Journal of Medicinal Food confirmed curcumin's significant anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, which apply to oral inflammation and dental pain.
[1] Efficacy of curcumin as anti-inflammatory agent - Journal of Medicinal Food (2016)
📋 How to Use
Make a paste of turmeric powder with a few drops of water, apply directly to the painful area and surrounding gums. Leave for 5-10 minutes, then rinse.
💊 Dosage
Apply turmeric paste to affected area 2-3 times daily. Can also take 500mg curcumin supplement for systemic anti-inflammatory benefit.
⚠️ Side Effects & Cautions
Turmeric will temporarily stain teeth yellow. Generally safe topically and orally.
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Qunol Turmeric Curcumin
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Browse All ConditionsLast reviewed: February 2026