What is the direct answer?
Clove contains eugenol, which can temporarily dull tooth pain, but it does not remove decay, infection, or a damaged nerve.
What does this question mean?
Clove oil and dried clove contain eugenol, which may temporarily reduce sensation. Toothache can come from decay, a crack, exposed dentine, inflamed pulp, or infection around the root.
What can you do next?
Do not pack a cavity with clove material or apply undiluted oil to the gum. Keep the area clean, follow the label for any pain medicine you can take, and arrange an examination.
When should you seek dental care?
Seek urgent care for swelling, fever, pus, worsening pain, a bad taste, or difficulty opening the mouth, swallowing, or breathing.
What should you ask the dentist?
Clove oil and dried clove contain eugenol, which may temporarily reduce sensation. Toothache can come from decay, a crack, exposed dentine, inflamed pulp, or infection around the root.
Do not pack a cavity with clove material or apply undiluted oil to the gum. Keep the area clean, follow the label for any pain medicine you can take, and arrange an examination.
Seek urgent care for swelling, fever, pus, worsening pain, a bad taste, or difficulty opening the mouth, swallowing, or breathing.
Frequently asked questions
What should I know about the cause?
Clove oil and dried clove contain eugenol, which may temporarily reduce sensation. Toothache can come from decay, a crack, exposed dentine, inflamed pulp, or infection around the root.
What can I do at home?
Do not pack a cavity with clove material or apply undiluted oil to the gum. Keep the area clean, follow the label for any pain medicine you can take, and arrange an examination.
What treatment might be needed?
Seek urgent care for swelling, fever, pus, worsening pain, a bad taste, or difficulty opening the mouth, swallowing, or breathing.

