What is an abscess tooth?
An abscessed tooth is an infection that can result in swelling. It normally looks like a boil on your gum between your tooth and gum. It is generally caused by a foreign element that gets into a decayed or decaying tooth, but can also be caused by dead cells from your body that get stuck or by a traumatic event like a cracked tooth.
The infection and decay of teeth begins with your diet, not with bacteria like people want you to think. Historically, tribal peoples all over the world suffered from little to no tooth decay. They did not brush their teeth or floss each day, but they ate a very traditional diet that they had been eating for generations. With our modern diets of heavily processed and chemical-filled foods, we have seen a massive rise in tooth decay! So the first step to healing your teeth is to adopt a very traditional diet. There are many amazing books and blogs that you can read to get started on that journey…
An abscessed tooth can be a very serious issue and may lead to a life threatening infection if it is not dealt with immediately. These remedies are meant to be used by generally healthy people who are not suffering from any severe chronic issues. I advise everyone to do what they feel is necessary for their unique body. This may mean seeking a health care professional.
Natural Remedies for Abscessed Tooth
- Clove Essential Oil – This will help to kill the infection and also relieve any pain that you are feeling. Brush your teeth gently with clove oil, rub it onto your gums, and put it on a tooth pick and stick it into your tooth if there is a hole from a cavity, etc.
- Peppermint Essential Oil – When I didn’t have clove, I used peppermint to help with the pain and it worked like a charm!
- Oil of Oregano – This is a powerful immune booster, anti-fungal, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-oxidant. It will help to kill the infection fast and boost your immune system so it can heal up. It is known to be very effective in curing tooth ailments.
- Oil Pulling – An ancient Ayurvedic healing tradition, oil pulling has been used for many years to remove toxins from the body. I use organic coconut oil to do my oil pulling because it has anti-bacterial and immune boosting properties. Take 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and swish it around your mouth, through your teeth and gums for 10-30 minutes. Do not swallow it! After at least 10 minutes spit it out and rinse your mouth out.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Use real organic ACV like Bragg’s or something homemade if you have access to it. Swish it around your mouth for a few minutes and spit it out. It will help to disinfect and bring down the swelling.
- Drain the abscess – If you are going to do this, you must be VERY cautious. First, make sure to completely sterilize your needle and tools with alcohol. Prick a little hole or two in your gum where the boil is. Then release the toxic pus with a Q-tip by pushing on the abscess. Make sure you don’t swallow any of the pus because it does contain toxic infectious bacteria.
- Raw Garlic – I took a clove of garlic and mashed it a little so the juice would come out and I stuck it right between my gum and lip. This helps to kill the infection and also eases the pain and boosts the immune system.
The Story of My Abscess
I recently suffered from an abscess tooth just a few days ago. It started on Monday when I went on a sugar binge and ate a bag of gummy bears. Some bits got stuck in my decaying tooth and later than night I got a HUGE toothache that would not go away. I started with the peppermint oil and oregano oil immediately. I could barely sleep that night and was putting on oil over and over again. On Tuesday morning I woke up with a huge boil between my gum and tooth so I did an oil pull, used more peppermint and oregano oil. That night my toothache had subsided, but the boil (abscess) was still there. I went for the needle and pricked about 5 holes in my gum. Barely any pus came out… I washed my mouth out with apple cider vinegar and brushed my teeth with lavender oil to calm my nerves a little bit. Then I put on some more oil of oregano. I woke up on Thursday morning (today) with no pain and all the swelling was gone! I had also been feeling a lot of pain and swelling in my lymph node from the infection, but that is almost gone too! I successfully cured my infection!
Update 10.08 – Since I cured the infection and haven’t had any pain since, I decided not to go see a dentist about it. I routinely use oregano oil to brush my teeth and do oil pulling once or twice a week. My gums and teeth are becoming stronger.
Linked up at… Tasty Traditions, Fight Back Friday, Small Footprint Friday
Re-Grow Roots 
July 21, 2013 at 2:18 pm
Thank you for the advice. I have been attempting oil pulling for the last week and it worked wonderfully. I will also try your other methods.
July 21, 2013 at 6:18 pm
The oil pulling really works wonders! š I’m so glad that you’re seeing improvement from that. The other methods I mentioned have all helped me in different ways so play around and see what works for you.
August 2, 2013 at 8:06 am
Astragalus has worked wonders for my abscess. I took four that morning and again before bed. The next day swelling was down after 2 days completely gone.
August 2, 2013 at 8:24 am
Thank you so much for sharing! Astragalus is one I have not tried and I would love to hear more experiences with that. I’m so glad that it worked for you. š
December 31, 2013 at 8:19 am
I will have to try that also! Thank you!!!
September 4, 2013 at 10:59 am
So did you get the tooth pulled? I am facing a situation that feels hopeless. My dentist told me all of my teeth are dying and that they’ll all need root canals and crowns. I’ve already had all of the front upper teeth done. Now one of those still has a root infection and they want to pull that tooth and do an implant. This is after I’d already paid the $2K for the root canal/crown. The suggested implant will be another $4-6K. I want to get rid of the infection and see if I can keep the infection from coming back before resorting to pulling a front tooth. I don’t want to go toothless, but the implants are expensive and I don’t want to have a false tooth to take out at night. I’m not in pain but I don’t want to ignore this either and have the infection spread. And I’d like to heal my tooth’s roots and jaw without pulling if I can.
Today I’m beginning a new diet, no processed and little or no sugar. God, that’s going to be hard because I do love my waffles for breakfast.
For the infection I’m taking the antibiotics, but that won’t be a long term solution. So I’ll try drinking my tea that does wonders for everything else to see how it works. I use echinacea/beebalm/red clover (and whatever other medicinals I find ready to harvest, but always the base is ech/beebalm). Right now the spicebush are putting on berries so I may use some of those in it. I’ll also take vit. D, and flaxseed oil.
We’ll see how it goes. I’ll go back to the dentist in 2 months to have x-rays (but not the same dentist as before). Then I’ll make new decisions after getting feedback there.
September 4, 2013 at 12:16 pm
I did not get the tooth pulled and I don’t intend to. Most of the tooth has fallen out but the base is still there. I don’t believe that I have an infection and my mouth is definitely improving all the time. It is an ongoing process that takes time, commitment, and effort. Antibiotics are a bad situation that does a heck of a lot of damage to your gut and immune systems. There are many natural ways to combat and treat the infection listed in this blog post. Different things work for different people so try it all until you find what works for you. I have seen antibiotics do serious damage to a person’s health for years and years, VERY hard to overcome the imbalances that are caused by something that is literally killing the life in your body. That’s great that you have experience with herbal remedies. Keep that up.
As for waffles, you can make pancakes and waffles free from store bought flours and sugars. Just this morning my husband made pancakes out of our whole soaked buckwheat grains. I soaked the buckwheat yesterday for about 8 hours, rinsed it, and put it in the fridge to use later. Carlos took about a cup of them and put them in the food processor with raw goat’s milk, coconut oil, a little baking powder, salt, and some other lovely additions (like almond extract) and made the the most amazing pancakes I’ve ever had. So fresh and totally easy to digest, good for the teeth! Grains and sugar cause serious damage to the teeth, so be sure to eat good quality stuff. That means processing your own grains. Buy whole grains and soak them because soaking makes them way more digestible and the nutrients are more available to the body.
Hope this helps. You can take care of those teeth. It’s never too late.
October 2, 2013 at 10:37 am
Thank you so much for this post! I appreciate it so much!!
My right pre-moral was decayed badly; they put a filling in it; it became abscessed, so they performed a root canal. It was fine for a short while..but the abscess came back.
I was at a funeral last week, and most of the foods there were very sugary. I ended up eating some hard candies. Immediately my tooth began to hurt, and became full blown abscessed.
My main worry is it’ll have to be pulled. It’s within my smile-zone. I don’t mind the idea too much, but that’s not necessarily the best look for a girl, lol. I also understand the health repercussions to it. I also lack dental insurance, so getting an implant or a fake tooth would be too much, financially.
I have been treating the tooth with an activated charcoal poultice every night; oil pulling with sesame oil; and treating other dental caries with black walnut tincture. I brush my teeth with anise Eco-Dent. I plan to look into MI paste. I’ll also put some of your tips into action.
Your testimony has given me hope, for now.
When you brush your teeth with essential oils, do you just put a drop or two on the toothbrush, or is it diluted in some way?
Thank you!
October 2, 2013 at 11:01 am
It sounds like you are on your way to recovery with all the steps you are taking!! That’s so great! I’m very glad to say that my tooth is still there and my other teeth are all improving.
When I brush my teeth I use either oregano oil or clove diluted in olive oil or coconut oil. It works like a charm and tastes delicious!
October 2, 2013 at 11:03 am
I’ll have to give it a try!! I’ll comment on any progress I have. š I have a couple cavities. I’ve already noticed some good results!
Once again, thank you for this post!
October 11, 2013 at 4:27 am
Thank you for sharing your experience and natural treatment. It has given me hope for my molar which is very decayed and has a possible abscess forming on the root. I want to avoid having the tooth pulled. It is definitely the sugar that has caused my dental problems as I have had a bingeing problem for many years. I will certainly follow your advice.
October 11, 2013 at 1:19 pm
Julie. I wish you all the best and send you strength to get through this. It can be done with the will and drive to do it. Always pay attention to what your body is telling you, we are all different.
October 18, 2013 at 4:46 pm
I am so grateful for the advice posted re: tooth abscesses. I had a serious issue just recently and came across this site. I used several remedies suggested on this site. The combination of recommendations that worked for me were: sesame seed oil pulling, sea salt/baking soda, apple cider vinegar and one that I used that wasn’t recommended neem oil applied with a qtip while pushing against the abscess. I WAS AMAZED at the relief. After 3 days of a decrease in the pain I am almost back to normal. I have had a root canal in this tooth several years ago. I am so disappointed in the dentists that I have had over the years and I wasn’t about to let someone pull this tooth. I highly suggest the ACV and the neem oil. I brush each night with Neem Tooth paste and baking soda to help keep the infection at bay.
October 21, 2013 at 1:43 pm
I am so glad that you are finding natural means to treat your tooth problems. Thank you so much for sharing the other remedies that have worked for you! I’ve gotten out of the habit of oil pulling myself, but it is such an amazing treatment! I definitely need to get back into that… Best wishes to you on your continued journey towards health.
October 24, 2013 at 5:11 pm
I happen to have a very weird situation. I love corn starch. I have excellent oral health. Dentist just sing my praises because I always have the cleanest teeth and gums. However, years of gorging on cornstarch has cause bacteria to form under a crown and is now in the root. I know it’s the sugary cornstarch, because there is NO reason for bacteria to spread so quickly. I don’t eat sweets other than that and the regular juice or something. Do you think these herbs can get rid of bacteria already that deep or just keep it from spreading? I don’t want to have to spend a dime at the dentist office if I can help it. HELP!
P.S.
I will stop the cornstarch habit!
October 25, 2013 at 4:57 pm
That is a very interesting predicament… do you eat the powder form of corn starch straight? Either way, that can definitely cause an oral condition. Definitely cut yourself off from the corn starch if you can. Then start a daily regimen. Use some of the methods I’ve discussed and see what works for you. Clove oil and oregano oil are both great for brushing your teeth and will kill the bacteria. Try to do oil pulling about 3 times a week. This also will get the toxins and bacteria out of your mouth and is very very helpful. It takes time to naturally heal your mouth, but I’m convinced that it’s always possible. Nature is the best healer. š
October 31, 2013 at 5:26 pm
I have seen a dentist for an abscess that i have on my gum right behind my front tooth. The dentist is wanting to pull my front tooth out but im not really wanting him to. He did not treat the abscess all he gave me was Ammoxicillen for infection. I still have the abscess and its bothersome. I want to keep my tooth but want the abscess gone…what would you suggest i take first. I want something that works fast, but have no idea of what to use. Can you help me please???
October 31, 2013 at 7:16 pm
In my experience the thing that helped me the most was oil pulling. Everything I’ve described in this blog are very beneficial and I encourage you to see what works for you. Oil pulling had a very fast effect on me. You can use any nice pure oil like extra virgin olive oil or sesame seed oil. I use organic coconut oil. Take a tablespoon and swish it around I’m your mouth for ten minutes or even twenty and then spit it out. Don’t swallow! Then rinse your mouth. Do this twice a day. It may go down after just once. Everyone is different though. Let me know what happens. Best wishes and wellness. š
October 31, 2013 at 7:43 pm
I will try this tomorrow and the whole weekend and let you know how it goes…i appreciate all your help š
October 31, 2013 at 8:02 pm
When you say “Oil Pulling” what does that mean?
November 1, 2013 at 12:13 pm
It’s called oil pulling because the oil pulls out toxins from the mouth and body when you do it. It’s just like I said, use a nice oil and swish around in your mouth for 10-20 minutes and spit out. You can find lots of info about it online. š
November 1, 2013 at 11:31 pm
My husband is currently in extreme pain with an infected tooth. The infection is in an upper canine so the abscess is not in the gums but practically in his face. He has already started on Amox, taking Ibuprophen, and swished with salt water. I have peppermint oil, lemon oil, ACV, and pre-minced garlic. What would be the best option for getting some relief?
November 10, 2013 at 3:33 pm
Try oil pulling if you haven’t already. It is incredible!
November 10, 2013 at 2:52 pm
Thank you for this blog and comments (you are so good at responding!). I have an odd-ish situation. I was eating pistachios and one went behind my last, upper molar (where there is a tooth missing). I chomped down on it and it really hurt! — but it wasn’t against a tooth where it was hurting. Anyway – within a couple of hours there was a hard bump forming just above (on the gum) of that back tooth – and it was painful. Within four hours the right side of my face was swelling and kind of scary. I ate a lot of garlic, took oil of oregano and GSE…. Yesterday the ‘bump’ (which had increased about threefold) started to release it’s liquid – mostly clear) and I felt better. However, my face (even the gland that wraps down over the jawbone) are quite swollen and uncomfortable). Any thoughts? Thank you.
November 10, 2013 at 3:35 pm
Great job with what you have already done! That’s great that the fluid came out, the swelling should go down soon. You can take turmeric either I. The form of curcumin or drink a tablespoon in water for the inflammation. Also, oil pulling would be awesome for you!
November 11, 2013 at 8:18 am
I recently went to the Dentist for a routine visit . I was told I have an abscess under one of my teeth and they suggested a root canal. I have no symptoms of any kind as of now. Is there any way to cure the abscess without even being able to reach it? Any suggestions will be appreciated, thank you.
November 18, 2013 at 5:41 am
Hi Tina. I also have a possible abscess on the root of a tooth. My naturopath has told me to use a range of oils, and mixtures that she has given me, to apply on the tooth, gumline and gum area around the tooth. The oils that she has recommended are clove oil, oregano and lavendar. She also recommends hydrogen peroxide (food grade only), as well as green clay (calcium bentonite or the montmorillite bentonite are the best green clays to use. You might need to source these from the internet.). Use one oil etc. at a time, for a week each, to see which one is the most effective. In my case I’ll know, when my tooth is no longer sensitive. Nonetheless, using just one oil or alternating all of them is sure to have a positive effect. Hope that this helps.
November 18, 2013 at 11:19 pm
Thank you for your input, I appreciate it. I haven’t done anything as of yet. I’m not symptomatic, I guess I’m afraid to do anything at this point that may cause symptoms.
March 8, 2014 at 9:44 pm
I had a tooth abscess after having it repaired (filled), about 6 months after the filling. It started bothering me at night and all I had at the time was turmeric capsules and tea tree oil. I put a couple of drops of tea tree on a qtip and swabbed around the tooth, Ooh, bad taste but you get used to it. lol. Also before bed, I oil-pulled and then packed big gobs of turmeric all around the tooth and went to sleep. After 4 nights of this, the abscess was almost gone. I could feel it getting better and better. It went away for the most part, or so I thought, but now (5 mos. later) it caused a little bump on my gum next to that tooth, like you described. I don’t want to have a RCT done and am going to continue to try to get it to heal. I also am counting on God’s help. š I haven’t been doing the oil pulling for quite awhile and will have to get it going again. It did also help my sinuses when I did it. I am trying some Astragalus capsules (taken orally in the normal fashion) to see if it helps. Good luck with your teeth. Love your blog.
November 17, 2013 at 12:19 pm
My son has an abscesses tooth, which is broken and will be pulled this week. The oils you mentioned above, ia there a recipe you use for them or do you just use them independently, namely the peppermint & oregano? I have both an dam trying to find out how to use the oregano. I don’t know if I should have him take it in an capsule, internally, or diluted and applied straight to the gum.
November 25, 2013 at 1:09 am
Where do you find the clove oil
November 25, 2013 at 1:52 pm
I purchase mine from a friend who sells Young Living essential oils. They are great quality.
November 25, 2013 at 1:22 am
Does the oil pulling with coconut oil take away the infection in a abcess tooth?
November 25, 2013 at 1:49 pm
Coconut oil is antaibacterial and antifungal so it does kill infections.
November 25, 2013 at 11:22 pm
How do you use the oil of oregano for a tooth abscess?
November 26, 2013 at 10:01 am
Apply the oil directly to the tooth and gum where you are experiencing problems. I use it to brush my teeth daily too.
November 29, 2013 at 3:24 am
I’m hoping that someone may be able to help me. A few weeks ago my dentist filled two molars which were very decayed. One tooth was pretty sensitive afterwards, but I continued to chew on it and thought it was holding up OK. After each “chewy” meal it would throb (not too badly) for a little while. After a particularly long session of chewing on nuts one night I woke up the next morning and the tooth was throbbing badly. An upper molar, which had been filled a year ago and was “touch and go” also flared up. I now have almost on-going pain in about 4 teeth. My dentist had said that if I get ongoing severe pain I should have the tooth extracted. He had seen on the x-ray a “possible” abscess but didn’t tell me which tooth it might be in. I don’t know how to treat the teeth as anything I put in my mouth, food or liquids, seems to set off the pain again. Even touching these teeth with my finger causes the nerves to react. The only thing that eases the pain is lavendar drops on cotton wool which I press against the teeth at night. This seems to calm them. However, the next day the pain returns after I eat (only soft foods) or drink anything. I’m sorry that this is so long but I’m feeling a bit desperate and afraid that I may have to have 2 teeth pulled out. If anyone can help I would really appreciate it.
November 29, 2013 at 5:16 pm
Does anyone know if tooth pain can cause acidic saliva? I did a first time PH saliva test this morning and it came up very acidic. I have been using the lavendar oil on a cotton ball at night, so perhaps this was the cause as I still had a very strong lavendar oil taste in my mouth when I did the test?
December 1, 2013 at 11:13 am
Will having crowns affect the oik pulling and other natural treatments? Will the natural treatments damage the crowns?
December 1, 2013 at 11:14 am
I meant of course oil not oik, lol…..
December 3, 2013 at 1:10 pm
Do you use straight Oregano Oil in your mouth, or dilute it with another oil?
December 11, 2013 at 9:19 am
Dilute oregano oil in olive oil or another carrier oil. Alone it is very strong.
December 10, 2013 at 7:56 pm
Help! For those holistic-minded individuals, I went to the dentist today for a follow-up cleaning and they discovered a white pimple-looking bump on my gum in an area where a molar was removed a few years ago. After an extensive x-ray, the dentist told me I have an abscess which is developing in the area of a molar next to where the “pimple” was discovered . . . to the point it seems to be affecting the sinus cavity (which I’ve had no symptoms!).
He drained the “pimple” which was filled with a whitish fluid and wants me to get a root canal on this tooth as soon as possible : / and gave me a prescription for Ammoxicillin.
I would love to take care of this in a more holistic manner but am concerned of causing other health concerns.
This dentist said time is of the essence here, especially with the infection forming a visible bump inside the mouth on the gum . . . and the x-ray shows infection potentially in the sinus cavity (there is a very obvious difference in color of the right sinus cavity compared to the left!)
I have read the above posts and am interested in hearing about the most important and direct suggestions to start right away, and is there a specific order in which to start the various modalities?
Naturally I want to be efficient as possible to get this cleared up quickly!
Thank you for any and all suggestions!
December 11, 2013 at 9:16 am
Oil pulling delivers quick powerful results. I suggest doing that twice a day along with anything else you would like to try. Different esential oils work for dfferent people. Clove is a great one.
December 17, 2013 at 11:28 am
hello,, i was reading your blog,, n i must say theres some interesting stuff on here.. however my friend he has a similar problem.. n he will not go too a dentist,, but hes got a big like bump, something like a pimple.. n like you he refuses to take any antibotics,, will will the oil pulling trick make the big knot like go away?? thx for your help
December 17, 2013 at 1:14 pm
That knot is an abscess. The oil pulling works very well for most people. It definitely will not hurt to try.
January 2, 2014 at 2:34 pm
It worked for me with one of my Fistulas…I’m still working on getting rid of the other one. The key here is CONSISTENCY. I’ve done oil pulling for almost 8 months now…and one of the “pimples” is gone. So, it is really important to oil pull every single day….if not a couple times a day. I am now also using clove oil as well….just using a drop on a 1/4 tsp of coconut oil and rubbing it right onto the gum that has the fistula. Seems to be working. We’ll see in a few months!!! Good luck to your friend.
December 19, 2013 at 11:34 am
Can you do the oil pulling more than once a day? I have horrible teeth due to previous drug addiction and most of my back teeth have broken off. I recently have a tooth that is horrible feeling and I have no dental insurance to even get it checked out. I have read your post and done the oil pulling and rinsed with ACV. My question is if the tooth begins to hurt again in a couple hours can I oil pull yet again or should I do something else?
January 2, 2014 at 2:42 pm
I believe you can oil pull several times a day. But, check on Dr. Mercola’s website (www.drmercola.com) …he talks about oil pulling, how to do it, how often, etc… Again, the key is CONSISTENCY.
January 6, 2014 at 4:38 pm
Lorettta is right. The more you do it, the better. For a while I fell away from oil pulling and was only doing it maybe once every two weeks. It does good even doing it once, but see real results it’s best to do it at least 5 times a week.
December 19, 2013 at 11:05 pm
I am having this problem and my dentists are arguing what to do, I have had so many anti biotics I can’t stand more. I just tried oil of oregano sterilised a needle and attacked the boil like crazy not a very nice thing to do but, I had enough. I am told root canals needed hole in tooth if I need to I will have to as it’s fornt teeth but to get me through Christmas I need to do something about the pain.
Sent for astralagus ( Gosh that’ not easy to spell) going to continue the oil pulling have had success before using boiled water with salt and the oil of oregano also take internally capsules I also take garlic capsules. i do believe food is a big culprit I notice my teeth play up more when I go sugar crazy and I am trying to eat normal things brocolli but, with tooth pain I am not enjoying food. Christmas last thing you want is an abscessed tooth.
this blog is great thank you for the remedies
December 23, 2013 at 2:18 pm
I have seen a dentist for tooth pain that I have on upper left part of my mouth. The dentist wants me to take antibiotics immediately and do crown and post. It is very expensive and as a holistic halt coach I don’t believe in antibiotics. I Have an appointment with holistic dentist tomorrow but I know he is very expensive. I really hope oil pulling, taking oregano lilm and brushing with clove oil helps? I also took raw garlic and will use propolis. I hope this remedies work, I booked a vacation at a yoga retreat to get read of deep emotional pan after bad beak-up and i really need to be there. Any other suggestions?
December 26, 2013 at 4:21 pm
I have an abscess 1 month after a root canal, can I do oil pulling with organic olive oil? (I’m allergic to coconut)
January 2, 2014 at 2:44 pm
Yes, you can use olive oil, as well as sesame oil.
January 6, 2014 at 4:39 pm
Different oils work for different people so you can try with a variety of oils. I have heard the best results are obtained using organic coconut, olive, or sesame oil. Just make sure the oil is a pure organic oil.
December 27, 2013 at 4:47 pm
I have been oil pulling also for about 8 months now. My last visit to the dentist was cavitiy-free for first time in years. I am working on a fistula I have from a failed root canal from 5 years ago. I had two – one is healed. I had them both retreated at least 4 times and had extensive oral surgery last December – only for the one fistula to return under that tooth TWO WEEKS later. I’m done with retreatments and oral surgery. I am now oil pulling regularly and will begin using clove oil tonight (just bought some). I also am waiting to receive an oil blend called 10-in-1 from BioPure Nutrition which is supposed to do wonders for oral/dental problems like I am experiencing. Thanks for all the good information here!!
December 30, 2013 at 6:23 pm
please help! I have an eye tooth that is abscessed. the infection has gone up toward the nasal passage instead of out. so it would be impossible to drain . any ideas? I will try anything! I can deal with the pain .. I just need the swelling to go down so I can breathe normal until the dentist office opens back up after the holidays. Thank you in advance.
December 31, 2013 at 9:10 am
Oil pulling in your mouth will actually pull toxins from your nasal passage too. Try it.
December 31, 2013 at 8:22 am
For those of you that are going to try oil pulling, when you are done (after 10-15 minutes or so), do NOT spit the oil into the toilet or sink…it will solidify and clog them up! Just spit it out into toilet paper or tissues and throw it out in the garbage.
And yes, you can use other oils other than coconut (my fav). I believe they suggest using Sesame Oil or you can use olive oil as well.
January 2, 2014 at 8:31 am
Thank you so much for this post. It really helped me a lot. I have been struggling with an abscess on my upper gum for quite some time. I’ve been to the dentist, I’ve received treatments and antibiotics and painkillers. It was so expensive and it never worked. I really dont like taking over the counter drugs. And I’ve always wanted to live a more natural holistic lifestyle. Well, so this past few days i’ve really gone wild – eating and drinking all the wrong stuff – way too much sugar and alcohol and not getting enough rest. I believe that this led to the hated abscess rearing his ugly head again. I remembered your tips and this morning I drained the abscess. Yuck! Then I rinsed with ACV. No pain and no swelling. I will continue to use your tips. And of course stay off the sweets and alcohol.
January 6, 2014 at 4:42 pm
Thank you so much for your comment! It’s so great to hear from people who have found success with alternative remedies, especially when “conventional” dentists or doctors haven’t been able to help. We have the great gift of nature who offers the greatest remedies! Hope you are feeling better and stick to it!
January 6, 2014 at 8:58 pm
Just a quick note to say “I’m so glad I found you!”. I’ve got the early signs of an abscess now so working on Clove Oil compress until the morning when I can get to a shop and load up on all of the oils listed. I love the idea of oil pulling and have been toying with it for a while but now I hear of the benefits I’ll definitely be doing it. 2014 is my holistic year. Thanks for sharing…..
January 6, 2014 at 9:45 pm
š Glad you found me too! Congratulations for taking steps towards a holistic approach to health. Keep checking in for more holistic remedies and information and please let us know what you find on your personal journey.
January 7, 2014 at 10:50 pm
Good luck! Just remember to do the oil pulling consistently – give it time to work. I’ve been doing it for 8 months and just now added clove oil too and have really seen a difference in this fistula/abscess. It’s almost gone now. š
January 19, 2014 at 11:47 am
ok so I have several questions so please bare w/me. so I went on a sugar binge this weekend (it’s the baby in my belly’s fault) and boy did it irritate a tooth I had a root canal on. to the point of tears and frustration. I kept feeling like I had food stuck in there and would floss like crazy. stopped doing that and found your site. I did the salt water and the oil pulling using organic coconut oil. it feel better but still aches. we just moved to Guam so I don’t know where I can find clove oil š¦ Q1. Can I make a paste of some sort using clove the spice or add clove to the coconut oil while I do the oil pulling? Q2. what can I use as a tooth paste? I know you recommend oregano oil but by the time I get that in the mail, what can I use to brush my teeth? also can I make a super diluted oregano tooth cleaning for my almost 2 year old? on another website I read about a putting a tea bag on the gum and cheek where the abscess is to help pull it out, Q3. have you heard of this remedy? i’d try to poke at it like you, but I can’t see it. it’s to far in the back of my mouth. ok I forgot the rest of my questions. will ask again if I remember. thanks so much for you info! gonna try the ACV now š
January 19, 2014 at 7:19 pm
ok I used the ACV last night and it helped but burned like a mother. do I dilute it and how much do I use. my tooth feels so much better after the ACV and the oil pulling! I am so glad I found you!!
January 21, 2014 at 4:56 pm
Oh yes ACV can definitely burn. Use it in small amounts and it is helpful to dilute it until you get more used to it. ACV and oil pulling are great for more than just teeth too. Your digestive system will thank you for it. š
January 22, 2014 at 10:33 am
That is awesome!
January 24, 2014 at 9:44 pm
ok so update. I have been doing the oil pulling and ACV and some clove and I want to still pull my tooth outta my mouth! I had to make an appt w/a dentist and he had to refer me out. there is only one Endodontist on the island and I cant see him till MARCH. what else can I do? I almost ripped out my tooth last night. its a previous root canal. i’m also pregnant
January 21, 2014 at 5:01 pm
You can make a paste from clove that could double as a tooth paste. Take clove and grind it with a coffee grinder or use a mortar and pestle to crunch it into small bits. Put that mixture into some baking soda. I would use about 3 cloves in a tablespoon of baking soda. Add enough water to make a paste. This would probably last a few days if kept in the fridge. Experiment with that and see how it works for you. You can probably find some other recipes online too. You can use diluted oil on your two year old. Try it on yourself first and make sure it’s not very strong. The tea bag method can definitely be used.
January 22, 2014 at 10:32 am
You can use a drop or two of clove oil ON a little bit of coconut oil and rub that directly on the gums where that root canaled tooth is. As far as using teabags, use a tea with high amounts of tannic acidāblack and green teas are probably the best to use. Heat water to boiling (I personally would avoid using microwave) and place teabag in, take teabag out and squeeze excess water…place warm (as warm/hot as you can stand) teabag against the gum/tooth area that is affected and let teabag sit there until it is cool.
January 24, 2014 at 9:16 pm
I have a tooth that broke when I was pregnant with my twins. I am suppose to have a root canal done once I save the $$$. I have noticed that the tooth has a slight black tint to it. Will oil pulling help with the color of the tooth?
January 24, 2014 at 9:36 pm
If you oil pull regularly, it can stop the decay of the tooth and your tooth enamel can come in and cover up the black spot. It is possible and has happened for many people.
January 25, 2014 at 10:27 am
I have oil-pulled for over 8 months straight (consistency is KEY) and I have definitely noticed a change in the color of my teeth and sensitivity in one tooth has disappeared altogether.
January 25, 2014 at 9:00 pm
I have a crowned tooth …. read this blog and tried oil pulling for the 1st time today. Just wondering has anyone had success with a CROWNED tooth!!!??? I have been having pain with the crowned tooth … more like the gum area behind the tooth is where I notice pain and sensitivity. But now at times the pain is unbearable … have had relief with swishing Oregano oil and Silver but now it’s back and looking for complete healing. Thinking maybe I should of done the oregano/silver longer to bring complete healing!! Trying to avoid the dentist at all costs!! Root canal or pull is my only 2 options!! If I need to swish the rest of my life so be it!
January 26, 2014 at 1:59 am
I have swelling in my cheek from an abscess will oil pulling help with this?
February 2, 2014 at 2:14 pm
Hi Desiree,
Thanks for posting this blog. I have found the information very helpful. Five months ago I had an old large cavity redone on back molar. A couple of weeks ago I woke up and the whole side of my face was swollen. Two different dentists said root canal or pull tooth and said take antibiotics. No way I was going to take antibiotics while breast feeding and I have used turmeric instead of antibiotics several times. I found your blog and immediately did the oil pulling and oregano oil. That, along with turmeric, gave so much relief from the pain and the swelling was gone in two days!
My question is….can I keep the dead tooth in my mouth? The dentist tested it, I did not feel the cold. The abscess is internal and my jaw is still sore to touch. There was never any ‘boil’ in the mouth. I would rather pull the tooth than get a root canal. My concern is can the infection spread to other teeth or other parts of my body? If I keep up the oil pulling and other natural therapies is it safe to keep the tooth in? Thanks very much
February 7, 2014 at 10:49 am
Hi Roen,
I have a couple of dead teeth in my mouth that I have chosen to keep. One of them is a back molar that has chipped away to nearly nothing and the molars around it seem perfectly healthy. The other one has a severe cavity and has also chipped slightly and the wisdom tooth behind it now has a cavity. The roots of your teeth can infect other teeth so it may be worth it to pull the infected tooth. It’s a judgement call so weigh your options. I am continuing my oil pulling and hope to be able to keep these teeth but probably won’t see a noticable difference for a while. There are some other great articles online you may want to read. Here are a couple – http://holisticsquid.com/why-and-how-to-avoid-a-root-canal/ & http://www.thehealthyhomeeconomist.com/teeth-needing-root-canals-can-heal-with-diet-alone/
February 8, 2014 at 9:41 am
It does take time to see/experience results from oil pulling and the key is to do it consistently…at least once/day (preferably in AM before brushing teeth) and even several times/day.
February 4, 2014 at 9:59 pm
hey there Janet. I tried it all and I almost ripped out my own tooth! i massaged around the cheek where the infection was (i did a massage like i had sinus) and that was the only thing that relieved the area. and i also had to take some antibiotics. my tooth feels a lot better but yesterday i woke up the gum swollen where the root canal is. still oil pulling and it feels better. i feel like i moved the infection out twds the gum so i can finally do something about it š¦
February 6, 2014 at 5:41 pm
Hi there,
Did you get my question on Feb 2nd? Eagerly awaiting your reply.
Roen
February 7, 2014 at 10:51 am
I have replied. š Hope it helps.
February 7, 2014 at 11:37 am
Ok so I found something online “clove oil” but I’m not sure if it’s the same kind but which should I get out of these 2 http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002RTA8YU?cache=3730e786c1bc43c953f6cd3218ffb823&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70#ref=mp_s_a_1_6&qid=1391790808&sr=8-6 or http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002RUH3OM?cache=3730e786c1bc43c953f6cd3218ffb823&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70#ref=mp_s_a_1_4&qid=1391790961&sr=8-4
February 7, 2014 at 12:27 pm
Clove has been more helpful for me. I like to use Peppermint a lot for muscle and body pains, but orally I like Clove. Make sure to dilute it before use. Clove oil is very strong.
February 7, 2014 at 12:31 pm
What do you mean by “dilute”
February 7, 2014 at 12:41 pm
Use another oil as a carrier. You can use olive oil, coconut oil, etc. Put a drop of clove for every teaspoon of carrier oil & mix well. Clove will burn if it’s not diluted.
February 7, 2014 at 11:58 am
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00CPR6DLQ/ref=redir_mdp_mobile?psc=1
Could that oil work as well?
February 7, 2014 at 12:26 pm
I’m not sure if Clove Leaf will be as helpful as Clove. Generally the Clove seed is used, so if it just says “Clove” you can assume it’s the seed.
February 7, 2014 at 12:30 pm
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001ELVVO8?vs=1
Could I use this at all? Sorry for all the different questions but I keep finding different stuff but I’ll stop now
February 7, 2014 at 12:32 pm
Do some research on it. I’ve never used it in pill form, only as an oil directly applied. It may work great though. š
February 7, 2014 at 1:28 pm
Ok I ordered all of the oils undiluted so are they the same measurements to dilute them? For oregano how would I dilute that?
February 17, 2014 at 6:48 pm
Yes dilute all of the oils. There’s no specific amount of dilution required.. if it’s too strong, dilute it more. If it’s not strong enough, add more essential oil. I’d say a drop or 2 of essential oil to a teaspoon of oil or so..
February 8, 2014 at 9:44 am
You can do the same as with the clove oil – use a carrier oil like Coconut and measure out 1 drop of the essential oil (oregano, in this case) to a tsp of Coconut oil and just mix them together and apply to your gum/affected tooth area. Typically, essential oils are too strong to use straight and need to be diluted.
February 8, 2014 at 5:53 pm
Just wanted to share my recent (and ongoing) experience with oil pulling. About two weeks ago I developed an abscess in one of the canals of a back molar that has previously had a root canal and has a crown. The endodontist wants to do a root canal ($2k) but cannot guarantee it will be successful. My daughter told me about oil pulling, and since my root canal isn’t scheduled for about 3 weeks, I decided to give it a try. I started using organic, virgin coconut oil with about 8 drops of Oil of Oregano about 1 week ago, and today, my tooth is 99% better. I will say that the first few days, the pain got pretty intense, but I then started to experience rapid healing. Some days, I do the oil pulling twice – morning and night. I’m convinced that this has healed the abscess, and I’m going to continue this every day. I plan on cancelling the root canal as long I’m symptom free. I highly recommend oil pulling!
February 8, 2014 at 8:00 pm
That is AWESOME. I’ve had success with oil-pulling as well with two fistulas(abscesses) that developed under two failed root canals. After 4 retreatments and extensive oral surgery last December, I decided to try the oil pulling. I did it every morning for at least 8 months straight and one of the fistulas has healed over totally and the other is close to being healed…not quite yet. I took a break with oil-pulling (got sidetracked with my daughter’s wedding), so will have to start back up again doing it regularly. It DEFINITELY works!!! Hope you stay symptom-free and get to make that phone call to cancel the root canal!! š
February 17, 2014 at 6:50 pm
Thank you so much for sharing your experience! That’s absolutely wonderful!
February 16, 2014 at 10:47 pm
how much clove oil do you use for the oil pulling? and do you use it alone or with olive oil?
February 17, 2014 at 6:54 pm
Clove oil should be combined with a carrier oil like olive oil or coconut oil because it is very strong. Use about 1 or 2 drops in a teaspoon of carrier.
February 21, 2014 at 12:36 pm
Hi there! Thank you so much for your dedication to holistic healing. We need more confident, committed individuals like you to help guide us. I have a tooth that I’ve been treating off an on with clove oil for months now just to get rid of the pain when it starts up. Clove oil is truly one of nature’s most powerful remedies. I realize now that I need to treat it consistently until the infection is totally gone. I understand after my initial visit to a dentist yesterday that the infection is almost down to the root of the tooth, and I believe this tooth infection has been the cause of recurrent sinus infections for me. So my plan is to treat consistently until the infection is completely gone. Then I’m wondering about options to seal the tooth to keep food from getting in. It’s in my smile line, and if they pull it (which they recommended) it will be quite visible. I’m not opposed to extraction if that means optimal health, but if I can heal and keep the tooth naturally I’d rather do that. And who has $2500+ for an implant? Sha…
Have you heard of dental wax to seal a tooth? Any other thoughts on how to seal in a tooth to keep food out?
Many blessings! Appreciate your help!
February 22, 2014 at 5:09 am
I have an abcess over my Canine tooth that came on over night. There is no “pimple” yet and it feels like it’s up under my nose. Can I get some of these oils in local stores like the big box stores or local grocery? Is there pure clove oil on the supermarket shelf? Coconut oil, is that a common product. I really hate to wait for mail order it I can get stuff locally to start with. I know I am posting early in the morning and I might have found out the answers to these questions before a response, but I still like to get your opinion as well. I have hear so much about clove oil so I came across this page while researching….now I have it book marked.
February 23, 2014 at 9:19 am
You should be able to purchase coconut oil at your local supermarket. Essential oils are available at health food and natural food stores like Whole Foods or Sprouts, etc.
February 23, 2014 at 10:40 am
Thanks I found the Coconut oil at the supermarket and found a small vial of clove oil behind the counter at the local Rite Aid Pharmacy. My next question is the Coconut oil is like lard. How does everybody liquify the Coconut oil to be able to swish it around your mouth?
Thanks.
The clove oil did take away the pain, but my face feels swollen in the general area.
Tim
February 23, 2014 at 10:46 am
Tim, just put a couple teaspoonfuls (solid) in your mouth…it will dissolve into a liquid as soon as it’s in your mouth…then start swishing!!
February 23, 2014 at 10:55 am
Thanks Loretta, That is kind of how I attempted it this morning when I got home from the store but wasn’t too sure. I lasted 10 minutes before my gag reflex seemed to kick in LOL
Thanks again I appreciate it
Tim
February 24, 2014 at 9:55 am
That may happen a few times until you get used to it. Just keep doing it! Consistency is key with oil pulling!
February 25, 2014 at 11:26 pm
I liked this, thanks.
March 1, 2014 at 10:19 am
I did get some relieve from oil pulling but the abcess (after root canal) would not go away after 4 months …I went to another dentist..it appeared that my tooth was broken inside and that it could not be fixed…that is what caused the abcess…it had to be taken out unfortunately but after all these months it’s a true relief!
March 1, 2014 at 11:08 am
I am new to trying herbs and stuff, so I have a question on the coconut oil.. I have some organic virgin coconut oil unrefined. Can that be used for the oil pulling or does it have to be liquid form? I have a tooth in front that is painful and has turned gray in the back of tooth. I’ve done 3 different antibiotics and no good results for a bacterial infection, now this!
March 1, 2014 at 1:13 pm
THe coconut oil will turn to liquid in your mouth. Coconut oil is solid at room temp and colder, but when it warms it turns to liquid. Best wishes to you!
March 13, 2014 at 6:34 pm
Thank you, thank you, thank you…..Oil pulling….Apple Cider….and garlic….worked instantly!
March 16, 2014 at 9:29 pm
I have finally committed to the oil pulling five times a week and my gums have started looking so much healthier! It’s so worth it to commit the time, and now it’s a form of meditation for me. 20 minutes of silence. š
March 30, 2014 at 11:13 pm
I’ve done the oil pulling and my abscess is gone the whole day, the days I’ve missed, my abscess is back.
I did the organic clove oil and it definitely helped with pain I had from this tooth in the past. No more pain for months.
I’m also doing fermented cod liver butter oil and my after 1 week, my tooth no longer feels loose.
Thank you for posting your info.
Love your blog.