A tooth abscess, an infection located at the tooth's root beneath the gum line, requires prompt attention to avoid complications. Conventional treatments such as antibiotics, tooth extraction, or a root canal are commonly recommended. However, in situations where an immediate dentist visit is not feasible, natural remedies can provide effective pain relief and aid in healing the infection.
Home remedies for a tooth abscess can offer rapid pain relief and potentially save the tooth by promoting healing. Swift treatment of a tooth abscess is crucial to prevent the spread of bacteria through the bloodstream, which can result in sepsis—a severe and potentially life-threatening systemic infection.
When faced with a dental infection, several natural remedies have shown promising results in alleviating pain, reducing inflammation, and fighting infection. Combining these remedies can often enhance their effectiveness. Here are twelve proven natural remedies to consider:
Garlic, a potent antibiotic food, can be used to treat dental infections. With over 125 positive reviews from our Earth Clinic readers, garlic has earned the top spot on the list of effective remedies for tooth infections.
Raw garlic is the most effective, but garlic powder can be used if fresh cloves are unavailable. Do not leave raw garlic on delicate gums for an extended period to avoid potential irritation. To enhance the healing power and minimize irritation, mix minced garlic with honey or coconut oil before applying it to the painful area.
Cloves are a strong antibacterial herb with numbing properties. Whole cloves, clove powder, or clove essential oil can be used for abscess treatment. Hold a whole clove in the mouth at the site of infection. Alternatively, place clove powder in a tea bag and keep it in the mouth. You can also apply clove essential oil with a cotton bud.
Repeat the treatment every few hours during the day, and if necessary, reapply at night.
Black tea possesses infection-fighting, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving properties. Moisten a tea bag and place it against the infected area in the mouth. Keep the tea bag in the mouth for 30 to 60 minutes before replacing it with a fresh one. Avoid sleeping with a tea bag in the mouth to prevent choking hazards.
Turmeric acts as an antibiotic and provides pain relief. Apply a mixture of turmeric with water or honey directly to the abscess or consume it internally several times a day, similar to an oral antibiotic. Golden milk, which contains turmeric, is an effective way to incorporate it into your routine regularly.
If you have homemade colloidal silver, you can use generous amounts. Gently swish a tablespoon of colloidal silver in your mouth for one minute every hour or two during the day. If using store-bought colloidal silver, apply a dropperful to a cotton ball and place it on the abscess. Hold the cotton ball in place for 5 minutes, discard, and repeat every few hours.
Apple cider vinegar, containing acetic acid, combats bacteria. Mix one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar with a tablespoon of water and swish it in the mouth for one minute every few hours. Rinse your mouth with water after spitting out the solution to prevent potential tooth sensitivity caused by the vinegar's acidity.
Healing oils like coconut or sesame oil can be used for oil pulling. Put one teaspoon of either oil in your mouth and swish it for 15 minutes several times daily. Spit the oil into a trash can and rinse your mouth afterward.
The 3% hydrogen peroxide solution in the brown bottle effectively kills infection. Swish a tablespoon of 3% hydrogen peroxide in your mouth for a minute every few hours during the day. Using hydrogen peroxide before other remedies helps clean the infected area and complements their effects.
Honey has antibacterial properties and releases hydrogen peroxide as it breaks down. Apply honey to the abscess multiple times a day. For optimal results, choose Manuka honey or raw, local honey.
Bentonite clay or French green clay can draw out infections, including tooth infections. Clay also reduces inflammation and pain. Mix equal parts of dry clay powder and water, allowing the mixture to sit for 5 minutes. Apply the clay to the infection site, preferably overnight if the amount is not excessive, to avoid choking hazards. A pea-sized amount should suffice.
Like clay, activated charcoal powder draws out infection, kills bacteria, and reduces pain. Place activated charcoal powder in an empty tea bag, moisten it and apply it against the abscess. Change the charcoal poultice every two hours during the day.
To enhance the effectiveness of the above remedies, incorporate additional measures to support the immune system:
Additionally, prioritize a diet rich in fruits and vegetables while avoiding processed foods and sugar. Drink plenty of water or herbal tea to help flush out toxins. Rest and exposure to sunlight are also important for immune system support.
Introduction: Identifying the symptoms of a tooth abscess is crucial for prompt treatment. Common signs include severe pain, tooth sensitivity, bad breath, and fever. Swollen lymph nodes and radiating pain to the neck or head may also occur. Visible signs of infection beneath the gum near the painful area can sometimes be observed. The intensity of tooth pain may be so severe that it hinders daily activities such as work or school. Over-the-counter pain medications may not provide adequate relief.
Please continue reading to discover our readers' experiences and top recommendations regarding the most effective remedies for treating an infected tooth. If you have tried any of these remedies, we invite you to share your feedback!
