If you're like me, then you're constantly on the lookout for natural remedies that can help with common ailments.
So when I recently started hearing about peppermint tea for tooth pain, I was intrigued. Could something as simple as a cup of tea really help ease the pain of a toothache?
As it turns out, the answer is yes! Peppermint tea can provide temporary relief for a toothache and provide relief from the pain. But how does it work? And when should you use it? Keep reading to find out.
What's in Peppermint Tea That Helps With Tooth Pain?
Peppermint tea contains a number of compounds that have been shown to temporarily relieve pain, including menthol, menthone, limonene, and menthyl acetate.
- Menthol is the compound that gives peppermint its characteristic minty flavor and aroma, and it's also responsible for its cooling sensation. This same cooling sensation can help to dull the sensation of pain, serving as a natural analgesic. Menthol is also anti-inflammatory, so it can help to reduce swelling.
- Menthol, menthone, limonene, and menthyl acetate COMBINED give peppermint tea awesome antimicrobial properties! While peppermint tea may not be able to REVERSE an infection, it surely could potentially slow down tooth decay until you can get to a dentist.
When Should You Use Peppermint Tea for Toothaches?
You can use peppermint tea for toothaches and gum irritations as often as you need to in order to get relief from the pain. However, it's important to note that peppermint tea will not cure a toothache. If you have toothache pain that lasts longer than a few days, or if you have other symptoms like fever or swelling, then you should see a dentist right away.
In addition to peppermint tea, there are a few other home remedies that can help to reduce pain. These include using a cold compress, taking ibuprofen, and rinsing your mouth with salt water or hydrogen peroxide. Again, these remedies will not cure dental decay, but they can help you to get some relief from the pain until you can see a dentist.
When to See a Dentist
If your tooth pain is severe or lasts longer than a few days, it's important to see your dentist as you may have an infection or other dental issue that needs treatment. In the meantime, these home remedies may help you find some relief until you can get in to see your dentist.
How To Use Peppermint Tea Bags For Toothache
Peppermint tea can be used as needed for tooth pain relief. Simply steep a peppermint tea bag and allow it to cool slightly.
Once it's cooled enough to drink, swish the tea around in your mouth for a minute or two before swallowing. and then bite down on the tea bag for a few more minutes. Repeat as needed in order to get the most out of this toothache remedy.
You many find this article helpful in choosing the BEST Organic Peppermint Teas on Amazon.
Other Home Remedies Worth Considering
In addition to peppermint tea, there are a few other natural remedies worth considering for tooth pain relief. These include:
Ginger Tea: Ginger has long been used as an herbal remedy for digestive issues, but it can also help to relieve inflammation and pain. Steep a cup of ginger tea using fresh ginger root or ginger tea bags and drink as needed for pain relief.
Cloves: Cloves contain eugenol, a compound with natural analgesic and antibacterial properties. To use cloves for a sore tooth or gum, place 1-2 whole cloves in your mouth and bite down gently.
Alternatively, you can make clove oil by steeping 2 tablespoons of whole cloves in 1/4 cup of olive oil for 2 weeks. Remove the cloves and store the oil in a dark glass bottle.
To use, apply a small amount of oil to a cotton ball and place it on the affected tooth/gum area. Leave in place for 30 minutes before rinsing away with warm water. Do not use this remedy more than three times per day as eugenol can be irritating to gum tissue.
Final Thoughts
While peppermint tea won't cure an infection inside a tooth or other underlying dental issue, it can help to temporarily alleviate pain associated with a toothache. When used along with other home remedies like ginger tea or clove oil, you may find even more relief from symptoms. As always, if your pain is severe or lasts longer than a few days, be sure to see your dentist right away as you may need professional treatment. Thanks for reading and I hope you feel better soon!