Clove and toothache remedies

Clove may briefly dull tooth pain, but it cannot treat decay, infection, or a cracked tooth causing the pain.

Toothache is a symptom, not a diagnosis. Pain can come from exposed dentine, inflamed pulp inside the tooth, a gum abscess, a crack, or food trapped around the gum.

Do not place undiluted clove oil, aspirin, or alcohol on the tooth or gum. Rinse gently with warm water, clean between the teeth, use a cold compress outside the cheek, and follow the label for an appropriate pain reliever if you can take it.

Arrange an examination if pain lasts, returns, or worsens. Urgent care is needed for facial swelling, fever, difficulty swallowing or breathing, a spreading gum swelling, or inability to open the mouth normally.

Ask whether the pain is from decay, pulp inflammation, a crack, or gum disease; whether an X-ray is needed; and whether treatment means a filling, root canal treatment, drainage, or removal of the tooth.