Tooth pain is an unpleasant occurrence, especially when it happens without warning. Many things can cause toothaches, such as the progression of gum disease or unchecked cavities. However, finding a way to alleviate the pain is a top priority, and many people may turn to essential oils for their pain-relieving benefits. But is using essential oil for toothache a good idea?
In this article, we’ll explain some of the information that surrounds the use of essential oils for soothing toothaches. First, we’ll talk about what they are and how they work. Then we’ll talk about the most effective ones.
Essential Oils: What Are They?
Essential oils are concentrated liquids extracted from plants. The “essential” in the name is because they contain the “essence” of the plant’s fragrance, flavor, or character. These oils may come from various parts of the plant, anywhere from the root to the leaves, the fruits, or the flowers.
It’s no secret that essential oils have been in use for centuries, and modern distillation has become ever more popular. Manufacturers put them in soaps, air fresheners, perfumes, and more personal hygiene products. Some even have medicinal benefits.
Essential Oil For Toothache: Does It Work?
Certain essential oils have anesthetic or analgesic (pain-relieving) properties that can help with toothache, at least temporarily.
Peppermint oil is one such example. The distillate essential oil comes from the leaves and flowers of the peppermint plant and contains a variety of compounds, one of which is the familiar menthol. Interestingly, menthol is an oil that produces a cooling effect on the skin and can decrease the sensation of pain. No wonder, then, that it’s also present in oral hygiene products such as toothpaste and mouthwash.
Clove oil is another example. The essential oil comes from the flower buds of the clove tree, and it is rich in eugenol, an aromatic oil. It has long been revered in traditional medicine for its effectiveness in treating toothache, and it has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and pain-relieving properties. This means it may also decrease your risk of cavities and control bacterial growth.
Finally, you can use frankincense essential oil, also known as olibanum. Like clove oil, it has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and pain-relieving properties, used in traditional Chinese medicine for decades.
How To Use Essential Oil For Toothache
Remember that essential oils are very concentrated and that some people may have allergies to the compounds in certain essential oils. Use a very small amount to start with, and dilute it with distilled water or a carrier oil (e.g., olive oil) as much as possible to avoid any burning and stinging sensations. Always buy high-quality, pure oils from reputable manufacturers. Read the ingredients list to verify what you’re getting is not a diluted product.
To use these essential oils for a toothache, soak a small cotton ball with clove oil and rub it onto the affected tooth. If the sensation is too strong, you can dilute the oil with some olive oil. You can also hold the cotton ball against the sensitive tooth for five to ten minutes to allow the essential oil to work.
Conclusion: The Best Thing To Do
Of course, the best way to treat a toothache is to see a qualified dentist. While you can use essential oils in a pinch, it’s always a great idea to have the tooth examined professionally. A toothache is a clear sign that something is wrong. And if you’re also experiencing swelling and inflammation, you should see a dentist ASAP.
At A+ Star Smile Dental, we offer personalized treatment for each patient, with our promise of dedication to excellence. See why we’re the best dentist in Houston, TX! Please feel free to give us a call at (713) 984-4934, and we’ll be happy to help answer any questions or schedule you for an appointment.