If you have a toothache, you already know how painful it can be. Chances are you are trying to ease the pain on your own. While over-the-counter pain relievers and ice picks can help decrease the pain, you may be looking for something a bit stronger until you can be seen by a dentist. Different types of alcohol can help numb the area and decrease your pain. Here is how to use alcohol to decrease the pain you are experiencing due to a toothache. 

Whiskey

It may be hard to believe, but decades ago, whiskey used to be rubbed on the gums of teething babies. The idea was not to get a baby drunk, but rather to decrease their pain level. This was done because whiskey can numb the gums. If you are experiencing dental pain, soak a cotton ball in whiskey and place the cotton ball along the gum line and/or over the tooth that is bothering you. Within a few seconds, your pain level will decrease. Shortly thereafter, the area should be numb.

Rubbing Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol, or isopropyl alcohol, is a great item to use if you are experiencing dental discomfort. This type of alcohol has both analgesic properties and antibacterial properties. This means it can numb the sore tooth while also killing germs and bacteria, helping to prevent an infection until your dentist can see you.

The easiest way to use rubbing alcohol is as a rinse. Mix one part rubbing alcohol with four parts warm water. Swish the mixture in your mouth for 30 to 60 seconds. Repeat this up to three times a day for pain relief and to keep the painful area clean. 

Vodka

The last type of alcohol you can use if you have a toothache is vodka. Vodka helps to numb the affected area, providing you with relief. If you are experiencing localized pain, dip a cotton swab in vodka and then rub the swab over the affected area.

If your pain is radiating through your mouth and you are not sure where to run with a cotton swab, take a shot of vodka and swish it around your mouth for 30 to 60 seconds. Be sure to spit it out and not to swallow it as it may contain bacteria from the hurt tooth. Repeat this process as needed to reduce the level of pain you are experiencing from a toothache. 

If you have a toothache, you will want to make an appointment with your dentist as quickly as possible. They can determine what is causing the pain and how to best treat it. However, if they cannot fit you in for a few days, various types of alcohol can keep you comfortable until you can be seen. 

For more information, contact local professionals like Treasured Smiles Dentistry.