The toothache has spawned many tales about the best remedies for instant relief
. For example: If you think whiskey is good for a toothache, you've been duped by the old wives' tale club.
The simple truth is the absolute best medicine for a toothache is a visit to the dentist.
But if you can't get to the dentist right away, there are some tried-and-true temporary toothache remedies worth trying:
1. Clean a cavity. You can spot a cavity by looking for holes or pits in your teeth. If food or other debris is stuck in a cavity or in between teeth, brush and floss to remove it.
2. Dab clove oil. This may sound like an old wives' tale, but clove oil is actually a classic remedy for toothache pain. Gently apply a clove oil soaked cotton swab onto the area of pain.
3. Gargle warm water. Add salt and gargle once every hour for best results. This simple elixir can help ease toothache pain and reduce swelling in the gums.
4. Apply an antiseptic. Look for antiseptics containing benzocaine and boasting the ADA stamp of approval. When applied to the area of pain, benzocaine can provide temporary relief.
Over-the-counter pain relievers are another good go-to toothache remedy. But remember: All of these toothache remedies bring temporary, not permanent, relief. Think of these temporary tonics as something to tide you over until you can get professional treatment for a toothache.