Lavanga (Clove) Oil for Toothache

Toothache is a commonly encountered problem. Any inflammatory condition affecting the gums and tooth pulp gives rise to pain. Enamel of tooth is insensitive to pain, toothache occurs only when the enamel is eroded. In most cases toothaches are caused by problems in the teeth or gums, such as cavities, gum disease, the emergence of wisdom teeth, a cracked tooth, infected or inflamed dental pulp, jaw disease or exposed tooth root.

Though the cause of the toothache should be established before starting the treatment, topical application of clove oil to the affected area can be a first-aid management which is well-documented as an effective remedy in Ayurvedic classics.

Dose and mode of use

1. Cotton swab soaked in clove oil should be kept on the affected tooth without touching the gums.
2. Clove oil-soaked tissue paper can also be applied directly to the affected site of the tooth. It may be used 2 to 3 times a day.
3. Gargles with one to two drops of clove oil in a cup of warm water are useful as a mouth wash for toothache and gum problems.

Precautions and safety aspects

• Clove oil is irritant and pungent. Therefore, it is advised to prevent the oil from touching the tongue and gums.
• If topical application of clove oil fails to relieve the pain, take dental consultation.
• Clove oil application in deep dental cavities should be done carefully.
• Clove is toxic, its oral use in large amounts (i.e. more than 3.7 g/kg body weight) may be life threatening.
• Enough information about safety is unavailable for the oral use of cloves and clove supplelments in pregnant and breast feeding women.
• Undiluted clove oil may cause allergic itching, rash and even burns, so its local application should be done carefully.