Oral rinsing with salt water is recommended for tooth pain

How Salt Water Rinse Helps

• Antibacterial Effect: Salt water makes the mouth more alkaline, creating an environment in which harmful bacteria cannot thrive as easily, helping to reduce infection and pain.

• Reduces Swelling/Inflammation: Salt water helps draw moisture out from swollen tissues in the gums and mouth, soothing pain and minimizing discomfort from inflammation.

• Promotes Healing: It supports tissue repair by encouraging wound healing and is recommended after dental procedures for its gentle yet effective cleaning properties.

• Cleans Debris: Saltwater rinses wash away trapped food particles and bacteria, which can otherwise cause irritation and pain in the teeth.

• Balances Oral pH: It helps balance the pH of the mouth, deterring the growth of bacteria responsible for dental pain and infection.

Saltwater mouthwashes are a simple, safe, and natural way to help manage tooth pain and support oral healing.

An effective saltwater rinse can be easily made at home using simple ingredients for oral pain and healing.

Saltwater Rinse Recipe

• Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon of table salt (any common salt).

  • 1 glass (about 8 ounces or 240 ml) of warm water.

• Instructions:

  • Boil the water if possible and let it cool down to warm (not hot).

  • Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the warm water and stir until fully dissolved.

  • Take a sip and swish the solution around the mouth for 15-30 seconds.

  • Spit the solution out; do not swallow.

  • Repeat the rinse up to 2–3 times a day for best results.

Tips for Effectiveness

• Use warm water, as it dissolves the salt and soothes oral tissues better than cold.

• Reduce the salt to ½ teaspoon if the solution feels too strong or stings initially.

• Discard leftover rinse—always make a fresh solution to avoid contamination