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How to treat a dental cyst at home?

Published in Dental Cyst Treatment 4 mins read

A dental cyst cannot be truly treated or eliminated at home; it requires professional dental care for proper diagnosis and removal. While home remedies can offer temporary relief from associated discomfort, they do not resolve the underlying condition.

Like a tooth abscess, which the American Dental Association (ADA) indicates will not go away without dental treatment, a dental cyst also necessitates professional intervention. Attempting to treat a dental cyst at home risks infection spreading and further complications.

Why Professional Dental Care is Essential for Dental Cysts

Dental cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop in the jawbone or soft tissues of the mouth, often linked to dead teeth or issues with tooth development. They typically grow slowly and may not cause symptoms until they become large, at which point they can weaken the jawbone, displace teeth, or become infected.

  • Accurate Diagnosis: A dentist or oral surgeon can accurately diagnose a dental cyst through clinical examination and imaging (like X-rays or CT scans).
  • Effective Treatment: Treatment usually involves surgical removal of the cyst and, if necessary, addressing the underlying cause (e.g., root canal treatment or tooth extraction). This procedure ensures the cyst is fully removed and reduces the risk of recurrence.
  • Preventing Complications: Untreated cysts can lead to significant bone loss, tooth damage, or infection, potentially requiring more extensive and complex treatments.

Home Remedies for Symptom Relief (Not Treatment)

While awaiting a dental appointment, certain natural remedies, similar to those used for symptom relief of a tooth abscess, may help alleviate discomfort associated with a dental cyst. It's crucial to remember these are temporary measures and not a substitute for professional dental care.

Remedy How It Helps Application
Saltwater Rinses Reduces inflammation, helps clean the area. Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water. Swish for 30 seconds, then spit. Repeat several times a day.
Baking Soda Neutralizes acids, provides soothing relief. Mix 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda with 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water for a rinse, or make a paste with a few drops of water and apply to the affected area.
Fenugreek Tea Known for anti-inflammatory properties. Boil 1 teaspoon of fenugreek seeds in water to make a tea. Allow it to cool, then use it as a rinse, or drink it.
Cold Compresses Reduces swelling and numbs the area. Apply an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a cloth to the outside of your cheek near the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
Garlic Contains allicin, which has antibacterial properties. Crush a fresh garlic clove and apply the paste directly to the painful area for a few minutes, then rinse. Alternatively, chew a clove of garlic.
Oil Pulling May help remove toxins and reduce bacteria. Swish 1 tablespoon of coconut oil, sesame oil, or sunflower oil in your mouth for 15-20 minutes, then spit it out. Do not swallow.
Essential Oils Some, like clove oil or peppermint oil, have analgesic properties. Dilute 1-2 drops of a food-grade essential oil (e.g., clove oil, tea tree oil, peppermint oil) with a carrier oil (like coconut oil) and apply a small amount to the painful area with a cotton swab. Do not ingest.
Hydrogen Peroxide Rinses Helps kill bacteria and reduce infection risk. Mix equal parts 3% hydrogen peroxide with water. Swish in your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit it out. Do not swallow. Use cautiously and not frequently.

Important Note: These home remedies are for temporary relief and do not address the root cause of a dental cyst. Prompt consultation with a dentist is crucial for effective treatment and preventing further health complications.