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A tooth infection home remedy can be painful and disfiguring, but if you’re prepared with home remedies, it doesn’t have to be an expensive or time-consuming problem. Many of the same foods that help to clean your teeth will also help to kill the bacteria causing your gum disease. At the same time, though, it’s important to see your dentist as soon as possible to be sure there isn’t any permanent damage to your teeth or gums before you try any of these natural treatments at home. And don’t forget to floss!
Flossing
A lot of people neglect their teeth until they get that first toothache. By then, it’s too late: tooth decay has set in. The best way to prevent gum disease is regular dental care—specifically, regular flossing and brushing. Floss once or twice per day to help keep your gums healthy. And be sure to brush thoroughly at least twice each day, using fluoride toothpaste and soft-bristled brushes (if you can get your hands on an electric brush, all the better). Most importantly: try not to skip days!
Most importantly: try not to skip days! Going toothless for just one day allows plaque to build up; over time, your teeth will become vulnerable to bacteria attacks and gum infections. If you have tooth pain or notice any signs of infection (redness, swelling), head over to your dentist as soon as possible. For milder symptoms, try some home remedies: warm salt water helps relax inflamed tissue and make brushing easier; herbs like fennel seeds, calendula flowers, myrrh resin powder, licorice root powder can provide natural relief from inflammation; adding baking soda helps soften tartar buildup before heading over for a professional cleaning appointment.
Mouthwash
Mix one part mouthwash with 2 parts water. Use as a gargle to treat an infected tooth. Rinse after gargling for several minutes and then spit out. The alcohol content in mouthwash kills most germs, making it an effective natural remedy for tooth infections (1). You can also make your own mouthwash by boiling sage leaves and using that liquid as your rinse.
Apple Cider Vinegar
One of the most popular natural remedies for tooth infection is apple cider vinegar, which contains acetic acid. While you can use it undiluted on your teeth, you may also mix it with other natural ingredients, such as coconut oil or baking soda. Apply these home remedies directly onto your teeth and leave them there for at least 15 minutes before rinsing out with warm water. Try doing one of these treatments once per day until your toothache disappears. Be sure to check in with your dentist first to ensure that you don’t have an underlying condition causing your discomfort—otherwise known as gingivitis, tooth decay, cracked teeth or dry mouth—which would require treatment from them instead.
Coconut Oil
This home remedy is quite popular for many uses—skin, hair, teeth. Dogs love it, too. As well as serving as an effective treatment for gum disease, coconut oil is also great at whitening teeth and can freshen breath by helping fight tooth decay and plaque buildup. You can apply it directly or mix it with baking soda for extra dental care. You’ll want to make sure you rub in coconut oil thoroughly so that your dog’s gums get extra attention. Just be sure not to use virgin coconut oil as dogs are more sensitive than humans and may have negative reactions; refined oils are perfectly safe.
Salt Water
Soak your toothbrush in salt water overnight. Salt water is known for its antibacterial properties and can help fight tooth infection. Make sure to change out your brush after soaking it in salt water and be careful not to swallow any of the solution. Consult with your dentist if you don’t notice an improvement after a few days or weeks of treatment.
Dental Chews
Dogs are prone to gum disease, too. You can help protect their teeth by feeding them dental chews, which help remove plaque. Just as you would brush your teeth before bed every night, it’s important for your dog to have their teeth brushed and their gums massaged daily. If you suspect that your pet has an infection in its gums or oral cavity, consult with your veterinarian immediately so that appropriate action can be taken. Don’t wait for things to get worse! Your vet may prescribe antibiotics and oral hygiene products like dental chews or mouthwash (which is more likely than over-the-counter human mouthwash) and toothpaste for treatment.
