Home Remedies for Tooth Infection

What is Tooth Infection?

A tooth infection, also known as a dental abscess, is a painful infection at the root of a tooth or between the gum and a tooth. The infection is caused by bacteria that enter the tooth through a cavity or crack. It can also be caused by an injury, a broken filling, or gum disease. Symptoms include swelling of the jaw, fever, an unpleasant taste in the mouth, and a throbbing toothache.

Treatments for Tooth Infection

Treatment for a tooth infection depends on the severity of the infection and the cause. Antibiotics are often prescribed to treat the infection, and in some cases a root canal will be necessary to remove the infected tissue. However, there are some home remedies that may help to reduce the symptoms and speed up the healing process.

Salt Water Rinse

Salt water rinses are a simple and effective treatment for tooth infections. Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water, and swish the mixture around your mouth for several minutes. The salt helps to reduce inflammation, reduce pain, and draw out any pus and debris. Repeat the rinse several times a day to reduce the symptoms.

Clove Oil

Clove oil has long been used as a home remedy for toothaches. It contains a natural anesthetic called eugenol, which helps to reduce pain and inflammation. To use, mix a few drops of clove oil in a teaspoon of olive oil and apply to the affected tooth. Leave it for several minutes, then rinse with warm water. Repeat several times a day for best results.

Garlic

Garlic has natural antibiotic properties that can help to fight off infection. To use, crush a few cloves of garlic and mix with a teaspoon of olive oil. Place the mixture on a cotton ball and apply to the affected tooth. Leave it for a few minutes, then rinse with warm water. Repeat this process several times a day.

Tea Bags

Tea bags can also be used to treat tooth infections. The tannic acid in tea helps to reduce inflammation and draw out any pus. To use, simply wet a tea bag and place it on the affected tooth. Let it sit for several minutes, then rinse with warm water. Repeat this process several times a day for best results.

Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse

Hydrogen peroxide is a natural antiseptic that can help to fight off infection. Mix a few teaspoons of hydrogen peroxide with a cup of warm water and swish the mixture around your mouth for several minutes. Spit out the rinse, and repeat several times a day. Be sure not to swallow the hydrogen peroxide, as it can be toxic.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a natural antiseptic that can help to fight off infection. Mix a teaspoon of turmeric powder with a little water to form a paste, and apply directly to the affected tooth. Leave it for several minutes, then rinse with warm water. Repeat several times a day for best results.

Conclusion

Tooth infection is a painful condition that can be difficult to treat. Fortunately, there are many home remedies that can help to reduce the symptoms and speed up the healing process. Salt water rinses, clove oil, garlic, tea bags, hydrogen peroxide, and turmeric are all effective remedies for tooth infections.