Table of Contents
Updated October 2026
Clove and peppermint essential oils are the classic choices for a little toothache comfort. A very small amount of clove in coconut oil, dabbed near a sore tooth, can take the edge off for a while, and a peppermint and lavender roller along the jaw adds a cooling, calming touch. But they're a bridge, not a fix. Tooth pain almost always means something needs a dentist's attention.
Call your dentist soon if you have:
- Pain that lasts more than a day or two, or keeps you up at night
- Swelling in your gums, face or jaw
- A fever, a bad taste, or pus near the tooth
- A cracked, chipped or knocked-out tooth
Go to urgent care or the ER for facial swelling with fever, or any trouble swallowing or breathing.
What Causes Toothaches?
Common causes include cavities, a loose filling or damaged crown, an exposed root, a cracked tooth, an infected tooth (abscess), tooth grinding, and even sinus pressure. Since several of these get worse without treatment, it's always worth finding out the cause.
I once had a tender tooth that bothered me when I ate. A clove balm made it more comfortable while I watched it closely, and I knew that if the pain stuck around, I was heading to the dentist. That's exactly how I use oils for tooth pain: comfort in the meantime, not a replacement for care.
Best Essential Oils for Toothache Comfort
Clove Essential Oil
Clove has been used for tooth pain for centuries. Its main component, eugenol, has a numbing, warming effect, and it's still found in some dental products today. Clove is also one of the strongest skin and mouth irritants, so a tiny amount goes a long way. Learn more in my clove essential oil guide.
Peppermint Essential Oil
Peppermint's menthol gives a cooling feeling that many people find soothing along the jaw. It's also nice if a sore tooth has given you a tension headache. See my peppermint essential oil guide and essential oils for headaches.
Lavender and Roman Chamomile
These gentle, calming oils are lovely in a jawline roller or diffuser when tooth pain has you tense or keeping you awake.
How to Use Essential Oils for a Toothache
1. A Tiny Dab Near the Sore Tooth
Always dilute clove before it goes in your mouth (recipe below). Use a cotton swab to dab a small amount on the gum next to the sore tooth. Don't swallow it, and stop if it burns or stings.
2. Along the Jawline
Roll a gentle peppermint and lavender blend along the outside of your jaw and cheek on the sore side.
3. A Cold Compress
Hold an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a thin towel against your cheek for 15 to 20 minutes. This is especially helpful after an injury or if your gums feel swollen.
4. Calming Aromatherapy
Diffuse lavender or Roman chamomile, or breathe from an inhaler, to help you relax while you wait for your appointment.
Essential Oil Recipes for Toothache
Gentle Clove Tooth Balm
Adults only
- 2 teaspoons virgin coconut oil (soft, at room temperature)
- 1 drop Clove essential oil
- A small glass jar
Stir the clove into the coconut oil until well mixed (about 0.5%). Use a cotton swab to dab a small amount on the gum next to the sore tooth, up to 3 times a day for a day or two while you arrange a dental visit. Don't swallow it. Skip it if you're pregnant, take blood-thinning medication, or have a clove allergy.
Tooth Comfort Jawline Roller
Adults and kids 6+
- 2 drops Peppermint
- 2 drops Lavender
- Jojoba oil to fill a 10 ml roller bottle
Add the essential oils, top with jojoba and roll to mix (2%). Roll along the jawline on the outside of the sore side, away from the eyes.
Calm Before the Dentist Roller
Adults and kids 6+
- 2 drops Lavender
- 1 drop Roman Chamomile
- 1 drop Frankincense
- Jojoba oil to fill a 10 ml roller bottle
Feeling nervous about your appointment? Roll onto your wrists and the back of your neck before you go, and breathe in slowly. More ideas in my calming essential oils.
For kids: skip essential oils inside the mouth for children and call your child's dentist. For teething babies, ask your pediatrician or dentist about safe options.
What About Oil Pulling?
Oil pulling is an old Ayurvedic practice of swishing about a tablespoon of plain coconut or sesame oil in your mouth for several minutes, then spitting it into the trash (not the sink). Some people enjoy it as part of their routine, but it doesn't replace brushing, flossing or treating a sore tooth. I keep oil pulling simple and skip adding essential oils.
Everyday Habits for a Healthy Mouth
- Brush twice a day and floss once a day
- Drink water and go easy on sugary drinks and snacks
- Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth
- See your dentist for regular checkups
For fresh breath, try my gentle homemade tea tree and peppermint mouthwash. For more everyday comfort, see my 10 first aid essential oils and essential oil safety tips.
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