What kind of water can a patient with toothache drink to relieve pain?

Oct 18, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Chao

Introduction

In general, patients with toothache can drink warm water, mild salt water, peppermint water, honeysuckle water, or clove water to help relieve pain. These beverages may alleviate local discomfort by cleaning, reducing inflammation, and soothing the affected area. It is important in daily life to maintain good oral hygiene, rinse the mouth promptly after meals, and avoid consuming excessively cold, hot, or sweet foods that may irritate the teeth.

Generally, patients with toothaches can drink warm water, saline solution, peppermint water, honeysuckle tea, or clove water to help relieve pain. These beverages may alleviate local discomfort through cleansing, anti-inflammatory, and soothing effects. Specific details are as follows:

1. Warm water: Warm water gently cleanses the mouth, rinsing away food debris and preventing irritation to inflamed gums or cavities that could worsen pain. It also soothes oral mucosa and reduces sensitivity caused by hot or cold stimuli. When drinking, it is recommended to sip slowly to avoid strong water flow directly impacting the painful area.

2. Saline solution: A mild saltwater rinse has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help inhibit bacterial growth in the mouth, reduce gum inflammation, and relieve pain caused by infection. To prepare, dissolve a small amount of table salt in warm water, stir well, swish in the mouth for a few moments, then swallow. This can be repeated several times daily.

3. Peppermint water: Peppermint contains menthol, which provides a cooling and soothing sensation. It can temporarily numb oral nerves, reducing discomfort from tooth pain, while also freshening breath. Fresh peppermint leaves can be washed and steeped in warm water, cooled before drinking or used as a mouth rinse. Avoid overly concentrated solutions that may irritate oral tissues.

4. Honeysuckle tea: Honeysuckle has heat-clearing, detoxifying, and anti-inflammatory effects, making it effective for toothaches caused by excessive internal heat or gum inflammation. Steep an appropriate amount of dried honeysuckle in boiling water, let cool to a lukewarm temperature, then drink. This may help reduce oral inflammation and ease pain.

5. Clove water: Clove contains eugenol, which has natural analgesic and antimicrobial properties that can temporarily relieve tooth pain. Soak a small amount of cloves in warm water until the liquid turns light brown, then drink or use as a mouth rinse. This may provide soothing relief to the affected area.

In daily life, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential—rinse the mouth after meals and avoid consuming excessively cold, hot, or sweet foods that may irritate teeth. If tooth pain persists or worsens, seek timely medical evaluation to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment to prevent further complications.

View All

Can patients with toothache drink lemon water?

In general, if tooth pain is caused by tooth sensitivity, gum inflammation, or similar conditions, it is acceptable to drink lemon water in moderation. Lemon water is rich in vitamin C, which helps boost immunity and provides certain benefits for oral health. In daily life, maintaining good habits and following a light diet can help alleviate symptoms.

View Full Answer

Can patients with toothache eat bamboo shoots?

Bamboo shoots are a nutritious vegetable with a crisp texture. For temporary toothaches caused by mild gingivitis or food irritation, eating bamboo shoots generally has little adverse effect. Bamboo shoots themselves are not irritating and are rich in dietary fiber and vitamins; moderate consumption helps promote digestion and supplement nutrition. Although bamboo shoots are high in dietary fiber, they should be thoroughly cooked before consumption.

View Full Answer

Can patients with toothache eat longan?

You can eat longan when experiencing toothache, but only in small amounts. Longan is rich in glucose, sucrose, and protein, which can increase energy, replenish nutrients, and promote hemoglobin regeneration. If the toothache is caused by physical weakness or insufficient qi and blood, consuming longan is generally acceptable and may help nourish the body and alleviate the pain. Meanwhile, the vitamins and minerals in longan are also beneficial for dental and gum health.

View Full Answer

Can patients with toothache eat strawberries?

Generally speaking, people with toothaches can eat strawberries, but not in excessive amounts at one time. Although strawberries are nutritious, overconsumption may increase the burden on the gastrointestinal system and lead to digestive issues; therefore, patients with toothaches are advised to consume them in moderation. Additionally, strawberries are relatively high in acidity, and direct contact with the affected tooth may irritate sensitive areas of the tooth.