A toothache can be a minor nuisance or an excruciating pain that makes it impossible to concentrate. Either way, it is a symptom that’s telling you something is wrong, and needs to be treated sooner rather than later.

Most toothaches result from an irritated pulp within the center of a tooth. Inflammation of the pulp can be caused by cavities, injury to a tooth or gum disease. The pain can also be a symptom of sinus infection or other ailments, such as extreme stress or heart conditions. Pain can be felt in a single tooth or across the face, jaws, and head. The pain may be sharp, dull, throbbing or pulsating, and often is made worse by hot or cold, eating or drinking. Severe throbbing pain that lasts for hours, or even through the night is an indicator that you should call an emergency dentist or NHS 111.

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The good news is that there are many home remedies for toothache that can provide immediate relief. The first step is to rinse with a salt water solution to help disinfect and loosen food debris trapped in between teeth. Over the counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or paracetamol can be used to ease the ache, but aren’t a long term solution.

Another natural remedy is to use thyme essential oil, which contains spilanthol, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties and provides numbing when applied topically. You can dilute thyme with a carrier oil to apply it directly to the painful area, or mix it with a glass of water to make a mouthwash.