1. Clove Oil
Why it works: Clove oil contains eugenol, a natural anesthetic and antiseptic still used in dentistry today to numb gums and kill bacteria (6✓).
How to use: Dilute 1–2 drops of clove essential oil in a teaspoon of carrier oil (like olive oil) and apply with a cotton swab to the sore tooth. You can also swish a rinse made with 2–3 drops of clove oil in ¼ cup of water. Avoid swallowing.
2. Salt Water Rinse
Why it works: Salt water reduces inflammation, fights bacteria, and helps draw out infection. It also promotes healing by increasing circulation in the gums (7✓).
How to use: Dissolve 1 teaspoon of sea salt or Himalayan salt in a cup of warm water. Swish around your mouth for 30 seconds and spit out. Repeat 2–3 times per day.
3. Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse
Why it works: Hydrogen peroxide (3%) is antibacterial and helps fight infection while reducing pain and swelling (8✓).
How to use: Mix equal parts 3% hydrogen peroxide and warm water. Swish gently for 30 seconds, then spit out. Do not swallow. Use once or twice daily.
4. Tea Tree Oil
Why it works: This essential oil is a natural antibacterial and antiseptic that can penetrate gum tissue and numb irritated nerves (9✓).
How to use: Dilute 1 drop in a teaspoon of carrier oil and apply to the affected tooth with a cotton swab. Alternatively, add a few drops to a glass of warm water and use as a mouth rinse.
5. Oil of Oregano
Why it works: One of the strongest natural antimicrobials, oregano oil has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Some studies suggest its compounds are as potent as synthetic antibiotics (10✓).
How to use: Mix 1–2 drops of oregano oil with a teaspoon of olive oil. Apply with a cotton ball to the painful tooth, or dab gently with a Q-tip. Leave in place for several minutes.
6. Turmeric Paste
Why it works: Turmeric contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial compound that can help relieve pain and reduce swelling (11✓).
How to use: Mix 1 teaspoon turmeric powder with a few drops of water to make a thick paste. Apply to the sore tooth with a cotton ball and leave for 30–60 minutes.
7. Apple Cider Vinegar
Why it works: Raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Its acidity can help kill bacteria contributing to tooth pain (12✓).
How to use: Soak a cotton ball in ACV and press it against the sore tooth for several minutes. Or mix equal parts ACV and water, swish for 20 seconds, and spit out.
8. Ginger-Cayenne Paste
Why it works: Both ginger and cayenne are natural anti-inflammatories. Together, they help reduce swelling, fight infection, and relieve pain (13✓).
How to use: Mix equal parts ginger powder and cayenne pepper with a few drops of water to make a paste. Apply with a cotton ball to the sore tooth (avoiding gums if possible) and leave for as long as tolerable.
9. Peppermint Tea
Why it works: Peppermint contains menthol, which has cooling, numbing, and antibacterial effects that ease tooth pain (14✓).
How to use: Steep 1 teaspoon dried peppermint leaves in a cup of hot water for 20 minutes. Drink as tea while swishing some around your mouth. For stronger relief, dab diluted peppermint oil (2–3 drops in water) directly onto the tooth.
10. Baking Soda
Why it works: Baking soda balances oral pH, reduces bacteria, and helps with swelling and infection (15✓).
How to use: Make a paste of baking soda and water and apply directly to the tooth with a cotton swab. Alternatively, dissolve 1 teaspoon in a glass of warm water and use as a mouth rinse twice daily.
