How to Get Relief From Toothaches With Clove Oil

Clove oil can be an effective short-term remedy for toothache pain thanks to eugenol, a natural compound that numbs nerves and fights bacteria. To use it safely, dilute clove oil with a carrier oil and apply it directly to the affected area using a cotton swab.

Close-up of clove/spice in a ceramic spoon

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How to Use Clove Oil for Toothache

Clove oil has long been used in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine to relieve tooth pain. Its active ingredient, eugenol, is even used in dental products like zinc oxide eugenol (ZOE) for its numbing and anti-inflammatory effects.1

To safely use clove oil at home, follow these steps:2

Dilute the oil. Mix 3 to 5 drops of clove oil with 1 teaspoon of a neutral, edible carrier oil like olive, canola, grapeseed, or sweet almond oil.
Apply with a cotton ball or swab. Dip it into the diluted oil and gently press it against the affected gums—not directly on the tooth.
Leave it in place. Hold the cotton on the gums for a few minutes to help the oil absorb. You may feel a warming sensation and taste a strong, bitter flavor.
Wait and reassess. After removing the cotton, wait five to 10 minutes. If the pain isn’t dulled, you can reapply more diluted oil.
Repeat as needed. Reapply every two to three hours for continued relief.
Use as a mouth rinse. For more widespread pain, mix a few drops of clove oil into 1 teaspoon of coconut oil and swish it gently in your mouth. Do not swallow.

Always consult a dentist if your toothache persists, worsens, or is accompanied by swelling or fever.

How Fast Does Clove Oil Work for Toothache?

You’ll typically feel pain relief within five to 10 minutes of applying diluted clove oil to your gum.

Does It Actually Work?

Clove oil contains anywhere from 60% to 92% eugenol, depending on whether it’s taken from the bud, stem, or leaves. Eugenol helps relieve toothache pain by activating a protein called TRPV-1, which temporarily numbs nerve endings. Its antibacterial properties may also support healing.

Despite its long-standing use as a home remedy, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration doesn’t consider clove oil an effective treatment for tooth pain. The agency downgraded it from a Category 1 drug—generally recognized as safe and effective—to Category 3, citing a lack of sufficient evidence.

In short, clove oil may ease the pain for a little while, but it won’t fix the underlying problem, such as a cavity, infection, or fracture. If the pain doesn’t go away or gets worse, it’s important to see a healthcare provider.3

Does It Cause Side Effects?

Clove oil is generally safe for symptomatic relief when used correctly, but overuse or improper use can be harmful.

Common side effects include:4

MedlinePlus. Clove.

Bitter or unpleasant taste
Burning or stinging sensation
Redness, pain, or irritation of the gums
Mouth sores from contact (contact stomatitis)
Sore throat, coughing, or choking from inhaled fumes
Can be an irritant and cause inflammation

Do not ingest clove oil. Swallowing it can cause serious complications like liver damage or esophageal narrowing (stenosis).

Clove oil is not commonly linked to anaphylaxis (a life-threatening allergic reaction). But it does cause allergic reactions in about 2% of people who use it.

Most allergic reactions are mild and short-term, with symptoms like:4

Rash or itching
Localized swelling
Scratchy throat

If you experience an allergic reaction when using clove oil, stop using it and call your healthcare provider for guidance.

Who Shouldn't Use Clove Oil?

Clove oil isn’t safe for everyone. The National Institutes of Health advises against using it in the following cases:4

Pregnant or breastfeeding people: There’s not enough research to confirm it’s safe, so it’s best to avoid it.
Children: Clove oil should not be used on kids, especially for teething, due to limited safety data.
People with bleeding disorders: Clove oil can slow blood clotting, increasing the risk of bleeding.
Anyone taking blood thinners: If you take anticoagulants like warfarin, skip clove oil—it can interfere with your medication.
Before surgery: Stop using clove oil at least two weeks before any surgery (including dental procedures) to avoid bleeding risks.

Other Toothache Remedies

Clove oil has long been a tried-and-true remedy for toothache, but it's not for everyone.

If you can't tolerate the taste or experience an allergic reaction or side effects, there are some other ways to treat tooth pain at home:5

Rinse your mouth with saltwater or ice water.
Dab diluted peppermint oil on your gums.
Press a moistened peppermint tea bag against your gums.
Place a cold compress against your cheek.
Apply crushed garlic to the aching tooth.
Dab a small amount of vanilla extract against the affected area.
Taking an over-the-counter painkiller like Tylenol (acetaminophen).
Make a paste with turmeric powder and water and apply it to the tooth.

Remember that natural and home remedies for toothache are not a substitute for professional dental care, especially if the tooth is infected, there are signs of gum disease, or the pain is severe.

What Is the 3-3-3 Rule for Toothache?

The “3-3-3” rule offers short-term relief for toothache: Take pain relievers every three hours; apply a cold compress for three minutes; and repeat this routine three times a day. It can help ease discomfort, but it’s not a replacement for professional care.6

When to Call a Healthcare Provider

Clove oil can be highly toxic if ingested, leading to poisoning and even death. Doses as little as 10 to 30 milliliters (roughly 2 teaspoons to 2 tablespoons) can cause decreased consciousness or coma within hours and liver injury within 12 to 24 hours.7

If someone has consumed clove oil, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 immediately even if there are no obvious symptoms.

Call 911 or rush to the nearest emergency room if someone has overt signs of clove oil poisoning, including:7