Essential Oils for Tooth Pain
There is nothing funny about a toothache. Relieving the intense pain can become your one and only concern. Seeing your dentist should be the first course of action, but sometimes you just can't break away or the appointment isn't soon enough.
There is nothing funny about a toothache. Relieving the intense pain can become your one and only concern. Seeing your dentist should be the first course of action, but sometimes you just can't break away or the appointment isn't soon enough. When this happens to you, there are some readily available essential oils that can temporarily help ease discomfort.
Common Causes
Toothaches usually occur when a cavity has formed and infecting bacteria has entered the tooth and inflames the nerves. According to the Mayo Clinic, cavities are decayed areas of teeth caused by not practicing good oral hygiene and by consuming high sugar snacks. Cavities that are left untreated will grow and can lead to an abscess or tooth loss. The Mayo Clinic recommends you to visit your dentist regularly and when you experience tooth pain.
Clove Oil
Clove oil contains eugenol, which is used in dental cement and filler. It has analgesic and antibacterial properties, which help prevent and fight infection. Though there are few definitive clinical trials concerning clove oil, it has been approved for use as an anesthetic and topical antiseptic by the German Commission E. Simply apply the oil directly on the affected tooth using a cotton swab to ease the pain and reduce inflammation. Do not swallow and discontinue use if any irritation occurs.
Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil is commonly found in toothpaste as well as chewing gum. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, peppermint oil has been shown to be an effective antibacterial and antiviral. It is also has mild anesthetic properties, which make it ideal for temporary treatment of tooth pain. Pure peppermint essential oil should neither be ingested nor used on young children. As always, discontinue use if an allergic reaction or irritation occurs.
Tea Tree Oil
History has shown that tea tree leaves and oil were used by the Aborigines to treat infections. It has antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties and causes a mild anesthetic effect. Research by S. Shapiro, A. Meier and B. Guggenheim published in 1994 show the effectiveness of tea tree oil for dental maladies. Tea tree oil can be applied directly on the affected tooth. Do not swallow tea tree oil. Discontinue use and contact your physician if any allergic reaction occurs.
Lavender Oil
For relieving a toothache, you should choose an oil that will help your body fight the infection causing the pain. The "African Journal of Microbial Research" has shown that lavender oil is effective for destroying certain types of bacteria. Herbalist Richard Mabey suggests applying the oil directly on your tooth to ease pain and discomfort. Inhaling lavender oil is also widely used by aromatherapists to ease anxiety associated with dental procedures. Discontinue use and contact your physician if any irritation or allergic reaction occurs.