Clove Oil for Toothache Relief: How to Use It Safely at Home

Having a toothache is one of the most unfortunate events that can happen, especially at night, on holidays or before important events. Clove oil is one of the best natural remedies for toothaches and can be more useful than painkillers.

Used for centuries in Ayurvedic and traditional medicine, clove oil is a powerful natural pain reliever, especially for toothaches. Its active compound, eugenol, acts as a natural anesthetic and antibacterial agent.

In this blog, we will discuss the benefits of clove oil for toothaches, how to use it safely at home and how to deal with dental pain until the dentist appointment.

Why Clove Oil Works for Toothache Relief

The magic of clove oil lies in its natural compound called eugenol, which offers several benefits:

1. Natural Pain Relief

Eugenol has numbing properties that help reduce pain almost instantly after application.

2. Anti-Inflammatory

It helps reduce swelling, redness and throbbing caused by infection or irritation.

3. Antibacterial

Clove oil can fight bacteria in the mouth, helping prevent infection from spreading.

4. Antiseptic for Oral Care

It cleans the area around the infected tooth or gum and promotes healing.

Fun Fact: Dentists have used eugenol (from clove) in fillings and antiseptic pastes for over 100 years!

What Research Says

A 2006 study in the Journal of Dentistry found that eugenol is as effective as benzocaine (a local anesthetic) for reducing pain.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) supports clove oil as a traditional pain-relieving and antibacterial agent.

Studies also show that clove oil may reduce dental plaque and help prevent gum infections.

How to Use Clove Oil for Toothache Relief (Step-by-Step)

Here's how to apply it safely at home:

Method 1: Using Clove Oil with a Cotton Ball

What You Need:

• Pure clove essential oil
• Carrier oil (like olive or coconut oil)
• Cotton ball or Q-tip

Steps:

1. Mix 1 drop of clove oil with 1 tsp of carrier oil.
2. Dip the cotton ball into the mix.
3. Gently place it on the affected tooth or gum area.
4. Leave for 5-10 minutes. Repeat every few hours.

Important: Always dilute clove oil to avoid burning or irritation.

Method 2: Clove Oil Mouth Rinse

What You Need:

• 1 cup warm water
• 2 drops of clove oil
• 1 tsp of salt (optional)

Steps:

1. Mix everything together.
2. Swish in your mouth for 30 seconds.
3. Spit it out (do not swallow).

Use 2-3 times a day for soothing effects.

Method 3: Whole Clove for Temporary Relief

If you don't have oil:

1. Place a whole clove on the affected tooth.
2. Let it soften from your saliva.
3. Gently bite to release its oil.
4. Keep in place for 10-15 minutes.

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Safety Tips & Precautions

While clove oil is natural, it must be used carefully:

• Never apply directly without dilution - it may cause burns or gum damage.
• Don't swallow large amounts - clove oil can be toxic if ingested in excess.
• Avoid in children under 2 and during pregnancy (consult a doctor first).
• Use only for short-term relief - not a substitute for dental care.

If pain worsens or you have fever/swelling, see a dentist immediately.

When to Use Clove Oil vs. When to See a Dentist

Use Clove Oil For…    Visit a Dentist If…

Mild to moderate toothache    Severe pain or swelling

Temporary relief at night    Pus, abscess, or bleeding

Minor gum irritation    Broken or cracked teeth

Can't reach a dentist right now    Pain lasting more than 2 days

Best Clove Oil Products

NOTE- Affiliate Links or product links can be added here.

If you're shopping online, look for these:

• NOW Essential Oils - Clove (100% Pure)
• Gya Labs Clove Bud Essential Oil (Great reviews)
• Plant Therapy Clove Oil (Kid-safe line)

Tip: Always read labels for purity (no additives) and patch test before use.

Conclusion

Toothaches are painful and uncomfortable. As for clove oil, it does provide a remedy to that pain and discomfort if used as advised. Whether you apply it directly, use it as a rinse or keep cloves handy for emergencies, this spice cabinet remedy has stood the test of time.

Although it offers initial relief, it is important to remember that visiting your dentist should be the first step for getting a proper diagnosis and treatment, no matter what.

When experiencing throbbing pain in the tooth, one can apply the clove oil directly as desired. We encourage you to try it and enjoy the relief it provides.

According to Helathline, Clove oil for toothache: does it work?

Also, check out Mayo Clinic guide on other  Toothache care and treatment

FAQs

Q1: How fast does clove oil work for a toothache?

It usually starts relieving pain within 5-15 minutes.

Q2: Can I use clove oil overnight on a tooth?

It's not recommended to leave it on overnight. Use for 10-15 minutes and reapply as needed.

Q3: What's the best way to dilute clove oil?

Mix 1 drop of clove oil with 1 tsp of carrier oil like coconut or olive oil.

Q4: Is clove oil safe for kids?

Only under pediatric guidance. Avoid in children under 2 years old.

Q5: Can I apply clove oil on a cavity?

Yes, but only for temporary relief. You still need a dentist to treat the cavity properly.