dental remedies - #13533
I am wondering about some dental remedies. This is kind of a mess, but I just got back from the dentist, and I’m still reeling. They told me I have a couple of cavities and my gums are inflamed, and my head's spinning thinking about dental remedies. So, I've been searching for something, anything, to help treat this at home while I wait for my next appointment. I’ve tried rinsing with salt water, which felt nice for like a second, but then the pain came back. I've read something about clove oil being one of those dental remedies that could help with pain relief. Has anyone actually had luck with that? Also, just curious if there are other natural dental remedies that might work for gum inflammation. I’m really hesitant about jumping into all these chemical treatments as I had a horrible experience with mouthwash a while back that burned more than helped. I honestly just want to avoid more trips to the dentist right now but also feel kind of desperate to get some relief. Like, are there any real tips or things I can do? Is it worth trying out some home treatments before I go back and face my dentist again? Any advice would be super appreciated!
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Doctors’ responses
When you’re dealing with cavities and gum inflammation, there are a few home remedies that might help with symptom relief temporarily, although they can’t replace proper dental care. For cavities, clove oil might offer some relief from pain—it contains eugenol, which is a natural anesthetic. You can try applying a small amount to a cotton ball and gently dabbing it on the affected tooth, but remember this won’t fix the cavity itself, and an untreated cavity could get worse and lead to more serious problems like infection or abscess. For gum inflammation, things like salt water rinses can reduce swelling and bacteria levels—continue using that if it provided even slight relief before. You might also try hydrogen peroxide: dilute it with an equal amount of water, swish it around your mouth for a minute, then spit it out; but avoid swallowing as it can be harmful internally. Make sure you maintain good oral hygiene, brushing twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing gently to avoid further irritation.
For natural options, some people find relief using herbal teas with anti-inflammatory properties, like chamomile or green tea. Holding a cool chamomile tea bag against the gums has been claimed to soothe discomfort. It’s crucial to avoid aggravating substances like tobacco or alcohol, and steer clear of sugary foods and drinks which can worsen the condition.
It’s important to monitor for any red-flag symptoms that could indicate worsening, such as increased pain, pus discharge, or swelling of the face, which require immediate dental attention. While these remedies might provide temporary respite, they aren’t substitutes for professional dental care. Promptly addressing cavities and gum issues with your dentist remains vital to prevent complications.
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