How to naturally stop a toothache

Home measures may temporarily reduce toothache, but only dental treatment can address causes such as decay, pulp inflammation, infection, or a crack.

Toothache comes from irritation of the pulp, periodontal ligament, surrounding gum, or exposed dentin. Rinsing gently with warm water, removing trapped food, and avoiding triggers can reduce irritation without treating the source.

Keep the area clean, use a cold pack on the outside of the cheek for short intervals if swelling follows injury, and take only medicines suitable for you according to the label or a clinician’s advice. Do not put aspirin or caustic substances on the tooth or gum.

Arrange prompt care when pain lasts, returns, affects sleep, or comes with swelling, fever, bad taste, or pain on biting. Facial swelling or trouble breathing or swallowing requires emergency care.

Ask whether the tooth needs a filling, crown, root canal treatment, extraction, or gum treatment, and what signs mean the condition is worsening.