Homemade Clove Oil Remedy
Clove essential oil is highly concentrated and can irritate or burn the tissues of the mouth when used improperly. For this reason, applying undiluted clove essential oil directly to the gums or tooth is best avoided.
If you prefer a mild homemade preparation, you can make an infused oil using whole or ground cloves.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil or coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon of ground cloves or several lightly crushed whole cloves
Preparation
- Combine the oil and cloves in a clean glass container.
- Allow the mixture to infuse for several hours or overnight.
- Strain out the solid pieces before use.
- If you choose to apply the infused oil, use only a small amount on a cotton swab and gently dab the affected area.
- Rinse your mouth afterward and discontinue use if irritation occurs.
Homemade infused oil is different from concentrated clove essential oil. Do not assume that a homemade preparation has the same strength, purity, or safety profile as a professionally formulated dental product.
Other Potential Oral Care Uses of Cloves
Cloves have traditionally been used in oral-care practices because of their distinctive aroma and the properties of eugenol.
- Freshens breath: The aromatic oils in cloves can temporarily improve the smell of the breath.
- Provides a soothing sensation: Eugenol may temporarily reduce discomfort in sensitive oral tissues.
- Antimicrobial activity: Laboratory studies suggest that compounds in cloves can inhibit certain microorganisms.
- Traditional dental use: Eugenol has a long history of use in certain dental preparations.
These properties should not be interpreted as proof that chewing cloves can prevent cavities, cure gum disease, or replace regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental examinations.
Important Precautions
Although cloves are commonly used as a food spice, concentrated clove preparations require care.
- Do not use undiluted clove essential oil directly on the gums or inside the mouth. Concentrated oil can cause irritation or tissue injury.
- Do not rely on cloves to treat an infection. Dental infections can require professional treatment.
- Use caution with children. Concentrated clove products may be particularly unsuitable for young children.
- Stop if irritation occurs. Burning, swelling, rash, or worsening pain are reasons to discontinue use.
- Avoid prolonged or excessive use. More clove does not necessarily mean more relief and may increase irritation.
When to See a Dentist
Toothache is often a symptom of an underlying problem, such as tooth decay, a cracked tooth, gum disease, or an infection. A home remedy may temporarily make the discomfort easier to tolerate without addressing the cause.
Arrange a dental evaluation if tooth pain persists, returns repeatedly, or interferes with eating or sleeping.
Seek prompt professional care if toothache is accompanied by facial or jaw swelling, fever, significant swelling around the mouth, difficulty swallowing, difficulty breathing, or rapidly worsening symptoms.
Bottom Line
Holding a small amount of whole clove near a painful tooth may provide temporary relief for some people because cloves contain eugenol, a compound with local soothing and numbing properties.
However, cloves should be viewed as a short-term comfort measure rather than a treatment for the underlying cause of toothache. Concentrated clove oil should not be applied undiluted to the mouth, and persistent or severe dental pain should be evaluated by a dentist.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Cloves and clove preparations may temporarily reduce dental discomfort, but they cannot reliably treat cavities, dental infections, gum disease, or other underlying oral conditions. For persistent, severe, or worsening tooth pain, consult a qualified dental professional.
