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Toothache

This is not a medical site. Information on this page is provided on a "best efforts" basis for interest only and does not constitute personal advice.
It is essential that you discuss medical matters with your doctor. Please read the site terms of use.

You probably won't find raw garlic in your dentist's surgery - but it has long had a place in lore for the treatment of toothache. The great Hippocrates recommended garlic as a remedy for tooth ache, although to be honest he recommended garlic for almost everything! Whilst some folklore talks of applying garlic externally it is unlikely that this would provide any immediate relief. Most traditional uses of garlic to alleviate toothache suggest crushing it (to release the allicin) and placing it inside the mouth, next to the tooth. Sometimes the garlic is used in conjunction with cloves or clove oil.

The reason that garlic can be effective in relieving the pain of toothache is almost certainly the allicin - a compound with a powerful antibiotic effect that is released when garlic is crushed. It is possible that this could help to slow down any bacteria involved, however it is unlikely that garlic alone could halt decay and stop further deterioration.

Remember that crushed garlic is very strong and can cause skin irritation - use with caution.

Garlic might provide some short term relief for the pain of tooth ache, however it should not be seen as a cure or as an alternative to expert dental treatment. Always consult a qualified medical professional.




Garlic Central is not a medical site. Information on this page is provided on a "best efforts" basis for interest only and does not constitute personal advice. Always discuss medical matters with your doctor. Please read the site terms of use.


Garlic Central - Health - Toothache


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