Cloves contain a chemical called eugenol that has been used in dentistry since the 19th century. Cloves and clove oil have long been used as a home remedy for a toothache.
Toothaches are uniquely irritating and distressing. They are painful and unbearable. Getting to a dentist for immediate attention may be inconvenient at times. You can use over-the-counter pain medications if you have them. Else natural treatments are also available to treat pain.
One of these preferred home remedies is cloves or oil of clove. For years, cloves have been used as a pain relief technique. During dental treatments, cloves were inserted into the infected tooth or cavity. The active ingredient present numbs the skin it touches. This provides temporary relief from the toothache.
In this article, we will look at the benefits of this oil as a treatment for a toothache. We will also analyze the possible side effects.
Clove Oil – Oral Health
The oil finds a special place in traditional Indian and Chinese medicine for centuries. It is very helpful in relieving tooth pain instantly.
The oil contains eugenol, a chemical known for its pain-relieving properties. Way back in 1837, eugenol and magnesium oxide were combined together to create a filling material.
Later, zinc oxide was used in place of magnesium oxide to create ZOE (zinc oxide eugenol). This substance is still widely used by dentists as a temporary filling cement.
Since the 19th century, eugenol is one of many essential oil components used in root canal therapy, periodontal therapy, and to treat abscesses.
In the modern world, instead of ground cloves, you use the oil. Which is nothing but the oil extracted, direct product from the plant. You must read the instructions before using the oil.
Toothaches are the result of irritation of your nerves contained inside the tooth. Tooth decay and gum disease are among the many conditions that might irritate your super-sensitive nerve endings. In some cases, your pain might be caused by the trauma to your jaw. Which might radiate to your teeth and cause a toothache.
Clove Oil – Treating a Toothache
This oil contains the chemical eugenol, which actually acts as an anesthetic and antibacterial agent. Hence it is said that the oil is antifungal and anti-inflammatory.
You can find this oil in many drug stores, supermarkets, and health food shops, or it can be bought online. The oil has a very warm, strong and spicy taste.
It does not take long for your toothache to become annoying. You can feel the dull, aching pain in your tooth quickly moving to your mouth and then your head. Before it is too long, you will feel as if your entire body is being channeled through your toothache.
If you want to use it as a toothache, dip a clean tissue or cotton ball into the oil and slowly wipe it over your affected teeth. Apply is at the gums or teeth just at the point of the pain. It will give you instant relief.
You can also use whole cloves instead of the oil. Simply press them on the affected area for several minutes to get relief.
Steps
- Collect all the ingredients you need.
- Squeeze a few drops of the oil and mix with one teaspoon of olive oil into a dish.
- Soak your swab or cotton ball with the oil mixture.
- Gently wipe the cotton ball around the pain area. Or place the cotton ball and let it rest over the area.
- Allow the oil to sit for 5 to 10 minutes before it starts working.
- Reapply every 2 to 3 hours for pain relief.
Clove paste: You can also try making a paste or gel by grinding fresh whole cloves. Then mix the paste with oil. However, this method is less effective than using concentrated oil.
Clove Oil – Is it Effective?
For centuries people have been applying this oil directly to the gums to ease toothache. There is evidence to show that the eugenol in the oil is effective at fighting oral bacteria. Dentists widely used medicines containing eugenol for their treatment.
Some research suggests that clove gel might even reduce the pain of needle insertion during a dental procedure. But more research needs to be done in this area before this is conclusive.
The oil is indeed a great temporary pain relief. It is very strong and can ease pain from a sensitive tooth. However, if your tooth pain is the result of a larger dental issue, like a broken tooth or cavity, call your dentist immediately and schedule an appointment.
Clove Oil – Side Effects
While this oil is usually safe when applied to your skin surface. But repeated use inside your mouth and on your gums can have side effects.
It is true that the oil is widely seen as an acceptable alternative treatment for toothache. But it is not widely supported by many mainstream medical doctors. Discuss with your dentist if you have any questions regarding the usage of this oil for toothache relief.
Side effects might include damage to your gums, tooth pulp, inside skin of your mouth and the mucous membrane inside of the mouth.
Using dried cloves inside your mouth can cause irritation and sensitivity. It can also damage your dental tissues.
For children, excessive consumption can be dangerous. As it may lead to liver damage, seizures, and fluid imbalances.
Pregnant women are also advised against using this oil for teeth remedy, as it is not known whether oil extracted from clove is safe for your growing baby.
Alternatives
It is true that the oil has long been a tried-and-true remedy for many people. If you are unable to tolerate the taste or experience, then there are other options you can try:
- Rinsing your mouth with salt water or ice water.
- Dilute peppermint oil and dab it on your gums.
- Or press a moistened peppermint tea bag against your gums.
- Place a cold compress against your cheek.
- Lastly, take an over-the-counter analgesic like Tylenol.
Clove Oil Basics
As you might have noticed – like other natural remedies, this oil is also derived from a plant extensively grown in India. The oil is very popular in dentistry because of its sedative properties.
You can buy the product over-the-counter at any nearby drugstore. The herb is commonly used to add flavor to cough medicines and cold remedies, so they are at least tolerable to drink.
Although natural, too much of the oil at one time can be life-threatening. Or it can even cause severe breathing problems.
As with any medicinal product, even natural ones, check with your dentist or physician before using it.
Other Benefits of Clove Oil
The oil is seen to have several other benefits:
1 Moisturizes dry skin
This oil works wonder for your dry skin, a great natural remedy. The best way to take advantage of this treatment – take the oil in liquid form and gently spread it on your skin.
It is an essential ingredient in many products that are made specifically to lessen the appearance of baggy eyes, stretch marks and puffy skin.
2 Improves blood circulation
Do you know that clove oil is used in Tiger Balm to help improve circulation? This balm is used to soothe muscle aches and pains.
Cloves are an active ingredient that helps the blood flow through the affected area. As a result, it reduces the pain in the area. Because it helps improve circulation, the oil is ideal for reducing the pain and discomfort that happens due to tension headaches.
The oil can help to stimulate the brain and hence are used for aromatherapy purposes. The scent makes you more attentive and can even make you feel more energetic than you normally feel.
3 Soothes irritation
The oil from cloves is used as an active ingredient to soothe the itching and burning sensation. You can directly use the leaves by squeezing the juice out. You can also use this natural herb as a topical ointment.
4 Used as an insect repellent
Many insect repellent companies use this oil as one of the active ingredients in their spray products. The smell is very effective in keeping away bugs and mosquitoes.
5 Reduces stomach pain
Interestingly cloves have been used to soothe stomach pain for centuries. It not only helps to calm the nerves but also aids digestion. Add a couple of drops of the oil in a beverage, and it will ease your stomach pain.
Conclusion
Clove is one of the most widely known herbs, but the oil has many uses in our daily life. It is specifically good for ailments that typically strike. It is also easily available at local grocery stores that specialize in all-natural products.
You can also use clove leaves for cooking to add a unique taste to your dishes. The herb has so many benefits to offer. Hence it would be a great idea to have it in your medicine cabinet too.
Whatever you do for your toothache, do not use clove oil as a substitute for proper dental care. If your toothache is persistent or worsening, get in touch with your dentist and seek dental treatment to avoid potential complications.
Some research suggests that clove gel might even reduce the pain of needle insertion during a dental procedure. But more research needs to be done in this area before this is conclusive.
