Can Clove Oil Really Cure Your Toothache? What Science Says
Toothaches hurt. They make it uncomfortable to eat, sleep, or even focus on the simplest activities in life. Even though over-the-counter medications are good, many find it comfortable to use home remedies instead. Of all these, one of the most recommended and effective remedies is clove oil. So, does clove oil truly cure your toothache? Or is it just some marketing gimmick?
In this blog, we’ll explore the science behind clove oil’s effectiveness, how to use it safely, and when to visit an emergency dentist for real relief.
Clove Oil: A Traditional Remedy for Toothache
For centuries, clove oil was used as a benchmark for oral care. Ancient cultures have widely used this oil for relieving toothache.
Why is clove oil so widely used even today?
- It’s natural and easily accessible.
- It is antiseptic and numbing.
- It’s applied in most over-the-counter oral care products, including toothpaste and mouthwash.
But just because a thing has been around for hundreds of years doesn’t mean it is necessarily the best choice. Let’s discuss the science of how the actual clove oil works.
The Science Behind Clove Oil for Toothaches
Clove oil’s analgesic strength comes from a chemical called eugenol. Eugenol comprises around 70-90% of clove oil. This active component has been researched to have analgesic (pain-relieving) and antibacterial activity. Here’s what scientists have found:
- Eugenol may anesthetize pain by functioning as an all-natural anesthetic, briefly numbing the nerve endings of a tooth in pain.
- It is antibacterial, perhaps helping an infection not get worse.
- It has an anti-inflammatory effect, bringing temporary relief from swelling and pain.
How to Use Clove Oil to Cure Your Toothache?
If you wish to use clove oil for toothache, then follow these steps to apply it safely and effectively:
What You’ll Need?
- Clove oil (found in pharmacies or online)
- Carrier oil (such as coconut or olive oil to thin the clove oil)
- Cotton ball or cotton swab
How to Apply Clove Oil?
- Combine a few drops with a teaspoon of carrier oil to avoid irritation.
- Soak a cotton ball in the mixture.
- Apply it softly to the tooth and gums that are in the problem.
- Leave it on for a few minutes, then spit out any remaining oil.
Safety Reminders:
- Don’t apply clove oil in its pure form to your gums—it will burn and irritate them.
- Don’t swallow clove oil, as it can cause stomach upset.
- This is not a remedy for young children because of its strength.
When to See an Emergency Dentist?
Clove oil helps to alleviate minor discomfort but will not cure an infected tooth or halt decay. You’ll want to visit an emergency dentist in St. Louis if you notice:
- Extreme pain that will not subside within 48 hours
- Swelling of your gums, jaw, or face
- A foul taste in your mouth or other infection symptoms
- Pain upon biting down, which may mean a cracked tooth or deep cavity
So, what is the ultimate verdict on clove oil? Will it completely cure your toothache? Not quite. Clove oil is good for temporary relief. But it does not address the root cause of the pain.
If you’re dealing with mild discomfort, clove oil can be a quick and natural way to ease the pain. But for persistent or severe tooth pain, don’t rely solely on home remedies—visit a dentist to ensure your oral health stays on track.
