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Clove Oil For Toothache: Does It Work?

Written by Resurchify | Updated on: July 14, 2022

Clove Oil For Toothache: Does It Work?

Have you ever faced a pinching pain in your tooth? Toothaches can be terribly painful, isn’t it? Well, we all might have faced it, and if not, then congratulations to you! Toothaches are nothing new, is it? More than 90% of the population has gone through some form of toothache. But what causes such painful toothaches? And how can you help yourself from such painful situations? Some can be treated with home remedies, but for some, you have to visit the doctor. However, if detected and treated early, it will definitely save you from many painful situations.

Our Teeth

Now let’s understand the structure of the hardest substance in our body, our teeth. What’s so special about our teeth? We have four different types of teeth, all having different functions to perform. Being omnivores, which means that we feed on plant and animal products, we have a set of such teeth to meet all our food habit requirements. They help us grind our food and speech as well. An adult has a set of 32 teeth, which comprise 8 Incisors, 4 Canines, 8 Premolars, and 8 Molars, each having their own duties; the Incisors for cutting, Canines are for tearing, and Premolars and Molars for grinding the food. 

The tooth has a crown, neck, and root, which consists of enamel, dentine, pulp, cementum, and periodontal ligament. 

1. Enamel- This is the thin but the hardest outer covering of the teeth, which is made up of a rock-hard mineral, calcium, and phosphate. It covers the part of the tooth visible out of our gums. One amazing fact about enamel is that it is translucent, and hence light passes through it.

2. Dentine- This is beneath the enamel and has small microscopic tubules. You might have heard and faced teeth sensitivity; it happens when the hard-out cover gets damaged, and external stimuli like heat, cold or sweet pass through these tubes and causes pain.

3. Pulp- The pulp includes the blood vessels and nerves in it. It is soft and the innermost centre part of the teeth.

4. Cementum- The cementum is the outer covering of the dentin in the root of our teeth. It holds the roots of the teeth to the gums and jawbone along with all the connective tissues.

5. Periodontal Ligament- These tissues hold the teeth with the gums.

Any damage in the enamel of the teeth will lead to further damage and painful toothaches. It so happens that one of our teeth is damaged and is damaging the tooth beside it, and if not treated may damage the whole set of teeth. If you notice a sharp and pitching sensation on your tooth, it is clear that your tooth has been attacked by the bacteria present in your mouth. Yes! Our mouth has many bacteria that we carry since we were born. These bacteria feed on the food stuck in between our teeth and release acids, which corrode the enamel, causing a back spot on your tooth, especially the molars. 

Signs and Reasons for Toothache

A toothache can go from minor to serious one. It is a sharp pinching pain in the gums and the affected tooth. Toothaches can cause head and jaw pains as well. Minor toothache can cause some minor irritation in the gums and be treated with home remedies, but when the situation turns out to be more serious when you’re are unable to bear the pain, visiting the dentist is a must. Various dental problems cause these. Let’s have a closer look at the various dental issues that cause toothaches.

  • Tooth decay/ cavity
  • Abscessed tooth- this is a bacterial infection in the tooth centre
  • broken tooth/ tooth fracture
  • Repetitious movements, like chewing gum or munching or gripping teeth
  • Infected gums
  • Periodontitis caused due to poor hygiene, which affects the depth of the teeth
  • Eruption (teeth coming out of the gums) or tooth removal (for example, wisdom teeth).
  • Sensitivity (exposure of dentine due to corroded enamel)

The dentist can easily detect the issue by examining the tooth or performing an X-ray. 

The Fantastic Clove Oil

There are many ways to treat toothache, and clove oil is one of them. Clove is an interesting spice; they are aromatic flower buds of the clove tree, scientifically called Syzygium aromaticum. They are of Indonesian origin, which is also the highest producer of these lovely buds. Clove trees are evergreen and have different harvest seasons depending from country to country. What’s more amazing about the clove is that many people use the leaves and stems as medicinal products.

By the 17th century, clove got recognized around the world. Clove is derived from the Latin word caryophyllon and the Greek word karuophullon. These words were changed in Old French to clou de girofle and in Middle English to clow of gilofer. The word was first utilized in English in the fifteenth century.

These aromatic flowers add great flavour to dishes and are commonly used in India, Africa, the Mediterranean, the Middle East, and The NearWhen added to different cuisines, they blend with other ingredients, and give an amazing aroma and flavor as well. Not only in the kitchen, but clove is also famous outside the culinary world. You might not have heard about the clove cigarette. Kretek is a type of clove cigarette famous in Indonesia. Clove essential oils are also effective as an ant repellent and prevent mould growth as well. Since ancient times, essential oils have been in the use of aromatherapy and clove oil as amazing benefits. It is known to calm an anxious mind and increase concentration.

So, as we are discussing toothaches, do you know that clove oil is an effective traditional remedy for dental emergencies like toothache and sensitivity. Due to its antiseptic properties, it can relieve the symptoms of toothache for some time and, if used properly, can treat the root cause as well.

Now clove oils are easily available over the counter or can be ordered online easily. However, if you’re that DIY type, then you can make clove oil at home very without difficulty. You need a carrier oil like coconut oil or olive oil and the superstar- clove. Just follow the steps mentioned below-

Step:1 Take a teaspoon of clove and a tablespoon full of olive oil or any carrier oil of your choice and availability in a mortar and pestle and grind them together. Make sure to get fresh and aromatic cloves to get the best oil.

Step:2 Add some more oil and allow the mixture to blend. Clove’s natural essences will mix up with olive oil in this process. Now keep this mixture covered in a dry and cool place for at least a weak.

Step:3 Now, take a clean and dry cotton cloth to strain this mixture. Place this cotton cloth on the jar where you want to preserve your clove oil and secure it with a rubber band. Pour the mixture and allow all the solids to stay on the cloth. If you want to can transfer it to a dropper bottle, it is up to you how you want to preserve it.

Your clove oil is ready! Clove oils are made by the process of distillation in factories, but you can easily make them by following the steps mentioned above.

How Is The Clove Oil Effective?

We humans have been using Essential oils since time immemorial for their properties and effect on our body and mind. Clove oil is one of them, which includes Eugenol. It is commonly known for its medicinal properties and to be used on various food items to uplift flavours. But do you know the other benefits of this fragrant oil? Lets us read along-

Good for Dental Health

Clove oils are great for toothaches and probably the best benefit it offers. It has antiseptic properties, and Eugenol relieves painful toothaches caused due to various reasons. If used with toothpaste regularly can promote good dental health. It also fights bacteria causing bad breath to give a fresh feeling.

Eliminates Acne

Eugenol is the golden compound that does all the work! It helps fight the bacteria causing acne and reduces redness and swelling.

Improves Immunity

Clove is a must in any cold or flu-busting herbal tea supplement. It is loaded with antioxidants, which support and improve immunity. They are a great anti-aging agent too.

Kills Fungus

Yeasts like Candida affect the human body in many ways. Clove oil kills and lessens the yeast or fungal growth, which causes common yeast infections.

Heals a Sore Throat 

Clove oil has anti-inflammatory compounds treasure in it. Have a sore throat? Add 2- 3 drops of clove oil in warm water and gargle; it will soothe a throat and heals it as well.

Great for Hair

Clove oil boosts the blood circulation of the scalp and promotes hair growth. It also helps to reduce dandruff and controls hair loss. It also provides good conditioning to the hair.

Clove Oil For Toothache

The best way to stay away from oral problems is to practice healthy habits, like brushing the teeth twice daily and washing the mouth after every meal. But, still, if your luck and habits are bad, the dental problem will surely be without notice.

As discussed above, the chemical compound Eugenol is a natural anesthetic and antibiotic which helps to reduce inflammations in the mouth. The British Association of Oral Maxillofacial surgeons researched and found out that patients who had gone under tooth extraction used Eugenol-based paste, which helped them fight the pain after that. Dentists have been using clove oil since the 19th century. 

  • How to Use Clove Oil for Toothache

There are verities of essential oils, and clove oil is one of the strongest and must be used in a limited amount to avoid any side effects. You can either make the DIY clove oil or find them in any store. Take a cotton earbud, dip it in the clove oil, and apply it gently to the affected area. You can also use it as a mouthwash- add a few drops of clove oil in lukewarm water and rinse it after brushing your teeth. It’s a natural and quick treatment for painful toothaches. 

Did you know that the tooth-filled material was made up of magnesium oxide and Eugenol? To date, this essential oil is used during Fillings, root canal treatment, treating abscesses, and other surgical treatments like gum disease treatments.

The deposited plaque grows bacteria, causing infection in the tooth and gums. Clove oil has proven effects in treating tooth and gum infections due to its non-inflammatory properties. Clove oil is also an effective way to treat canker sores. But if the problem has reached the innermost part of the tooth, which can lead to serious issues in the nerves, then visiting the dentist is suggested. 

Possible Side Effects Of Clove Oil

Every other thing has possible side effects and can cause more damage than healing. Clove oil is on the same page. No doubt it has a plethora of benefits to offer to the human body, but it has some possible side effects as well, which should not be avoided.

Although it is rare, some people might be allergic to clove oil, which can lead to skin rashes, burning sensations, and anaphylaxis. So it is important to know whether or not you are allergic to this essential oil. It can also cause diarrhea if ingested directly. Clove oil is very strong and concentrated. Hence, it is always recommended to dilute it and then use it to avoid any possible reaction to skin and health. We must know and understand how much oil to use. If you are taking a cup of warm water, two drops are enough. If you want to use base oil, say half a cup, then 2-3 drops will do the work, not more than that. 

When To See A Doctor?

Non-Stop Pain in the Tooth-  At times, home remedies can provide relief from pain. But if you notice no change after various home remedies, it clearly means the problem has reached its roots. A regular dental check-up is hence important. Clove oil can give temporary relief, but the situation goes beyond tolerance; go to the doctor right away.

Gum Bleeding - Bacteria cause bad breath and plaque deposition and cause inflammation in the gums. If not maintained properly, it causes swollen and bleeding gums. They are also indications of some serious underlying issue that needs to be treated as soon as possible.

Brocken Tooth - As a matter of fact, our teeth are strongest in our body, but they can break too, which is called teeth fracture or brittle teeth, which easily break. There are many reasons; one of them is lack of vitamin D. Teeth fracture can also be caused by some serious accident. In such cases, trying home remedies will not be a wise option at all. Visit the nearby dental hospital.

Constant Pain in the Jaw and Headaches - Continuous pain in the jaws leads to serious annoying headaches. This can be a problem in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) or the surrounding facial muscles. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the lower jaw with our skull and acts like a sliding hinge. Any dysfunction in this hinge might cause chewing problems, clicking sounds, and other discomforts that can get serious and cause sharp pain. These can be treated by medication and physiotherapy once you consult your dentist. 

Sensitive Teeth - Have you noticed a sharp sensation after eating something cold, hot, sweet, or sour? You might be hypersensitive to all these items or a few of them. This happens when the enamel, the protective layer, is damaged and the nerves are exposed and vulnerable. Clove oil helps to reduce the pinching sensation. There are certain pastes available over the counter to provide aid to sensitivity, or else a dental expert can always help you deal with such situations.

Other Home Remedies For Toothaches

There are more than affordable and easily available treatments you can try at home to treat toothache.

1. Ice Pack - A cold press is effective for many types of pains. Wrap some ice cube in a thin cloth of poly-bag or take an ice pack and place it on the tooth that aches or over the cheek for 10-15 minutes to make the nerves numb and reduce inflammation and swelling.

2. Saltwater - This technique has been followed for ages. Saltwater is a natural disinfectant and an easy and effective remedy to cure dental problems like toothache. Just mix half a tablespoon of salt in warm water and mouth wash after brushing your teeth or at a few intervals till you get some relief. The dentists recommended it, too, as it is easily available and hassle-free to use.

3. Peppermint - Cold press is a good option, but you might not like it if you stay in a chilling area. In this case, make yourself tea with peppermint. This aromatic tea has numbing properties and is easy to make. Put some peppermint leaves in some boiling water and allow them to brew for 15-20 minutes. Use this for rinsing your mouth as well. 

4. Hydrogen Peroxide - This chemical can help you manage the discomfort caused due to toothache. It also reduces plaque, heals bleeding gums, and kills bad bacteria in our mouth. Hydrogen peroxide can act as a mouthwash; all you have to do is 3% of Hydrogen peroxide with an equal part of water. Rinse your mouth with it. Do not swallow! After spitting the water, rinse your mouth with clear water 2 3 times, and you’re done.

5. Guava Leaves - Sounds interesting, doesn’t it? Guava leaves are known for their anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. They can also prevent mouth ulcers and aid swollen gums. Take some tender guava leaves and chew until it relishes the juices.

6. Thyme Oil - This popular spice is loaded with flavours and has been known for its medicinal properties since ancient Egyptian times. They are proven to prevent aches and help reduce high blood pressure. Thyme is rich in antioxidants and has anti-microbial properties, making it an excellent toothache help tool. Take 2-3 drops of thyme oil and water on a cotton ball and apply them to the affected area. 

7. Garlic - Garlic was widely used in the ancient Chinese and Indian medicines and by Ibn Sina, commonly called Avicenna, the great physician, philosopher, astronomer, and writer of the Islamic Golden Age to treat toothache. Garlic is not only the star in many cuisines for its rich flavour, but it also has many medicinal properties. It kills harmful bacteria and helps to reduce pain. It can be simply chewed or made into a paste and placed on the affected area. Repeat until you get rid of the pain.

You need to understand that all these may provide temporary relief and not promise to kill the root cause of the pain. 

This might sound unbelievable, but bad oral health can affect heart health. If a bacterial infection causes periodontal disease in the gums, the same bacteria can get into our bloodstreams, causing plaque buildup within the arteries, which hardens with time. Bad oral health affects brain health and potentially causes Alzheimer’s disease, affecting the respiratory tract and causing acute bronchitis and pneumonia. Studies have also suggested that prolonged dental issues can also trigger oropharyngeal cancer! 

Follow the following steps and maintain good dental health-

  • Brush your teeth twice regularly
  • Do not eat lots of sugar and if you do, remember to clean your teeth without fail
  • Quit smoking, drinking, and excess caffeine
  • Use fluoride-based oral products

Conclusion

Remember that oral health is as important as body health. The mouth is the primary entryway to our inner body, and if it is not taken care of can adversely affect our health- directly and indirectly. Therefore, never be careless when it comes to oral health and start the daily dental routine from today.  

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Resurchify
Resurchify is an information portal for the people pursuing research. We bring to you a varied list of research gatherings like conferences, journals, meetings, symposiums, etc across multiple areas. Along with that, we also share a huge chunk of details of these events.

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