Acupressure points like Gallbladder 21 (GB21) and Small intestine 18 (SI18) are believed to relieve toothache pain. Other points may help with facial pain or promote relaxation.
Acupressure has been practiced for more than 2,000 years. Many people advocate its effectiveness in soothing muscle aches and pains. Some research suggests that applying pressure to acupressure points may also relieve tooth pain during dental procedures.
Toothache pain requires treatment by a dentist. Untreated, specific underlying causes of tooth pain can get worse. But if you’re looking for relief while waiting for your appointment or during a dental procedure, stimulating acupoints may help as a complementary therapy.
Acupressure is a natural, holistic form of Chinese traditional medicine that involves applying pressure to a certain point on the body. The pressure signals the body to relieve tension, remedy blood flow issues, and reduce pain. It can be done by self-massage, by a professional, or by a friend.
However, acupressure is not a substitute for dental care.
Keep reading to learn how to perform acupressure and the specific points that may help relieve toothache pain.
Acupressure can be administered at home or in an acupressure therapy facility. If you choose your home, pick a quiet, non-stressful area of your living space to help you focus and maximize the benefits of acupressure.
- Get into a comfortable position.
- Breathe deeply and try to relax your muscles and limbs.
- Massage or rub each point with firm pressure.
- Repeat as often as you like.
- Make sure to stop if intense pain occurs.
The trigger finger 4 acupressure point, also known as Shenmen or “Heavenly Gate,” may be beneficial for tooth pain, according to a 2022 study.
It’s located on the top of the ear in the middle of a depression.
The Small intestine 18 acupressure point, also known as Quanliao, is widely used to relieve pain associated with:
- toothaches
- swollen gums
- tooth decay
It’s found perpendicular to the outside of your eye and the outside of your nose, under the cheekbone. It’s typically called the cheekbone crevice.
To find it, draw a line directly from the outer corner of your eye down to the hollow of your cheekbone.
The Gallbladder 21 point, also known as Jianjing, is often used for:
- facial pain
- neck pain
- headaches
It’s located at the top of your shoulders, one on each side. It’s right in the middle of the end of your shoulder and the side of your neck.
Practitioners recommend not using the Jianjing acupressure point if you are pregnant, as it may potentially be implicated in inducing labor.
Optum Now is owned by RVO Health. By clicking on this link, we may receive a commission. Learn more.
The Large intestine 14 point, also known as He Gu, is used for:
- headaches
- stress
- other pains above the neck
You can find it between your thumb and index finger. You can find it by resting your thumb beside the second knuckle of your index finger. The apple (highest point) of the muscle is where LI4 is located.
Chinese medicine practitioners recommend not using the He gu acupressure point if you are pregnant, as it may potentially be implicated in inducing labor.
Stomach 6, also known as Jiache, is typically used to relieve mouth and tooth ailments, particularly those that affect the jaw.
This point is halfway between the corner of your mouth and the bottom of your earlobe.
To find it, clench your teeth together naturally. It’s located halfway between the corner of your mouth and the bottom of your earlobe. It’s the muscle that flexes when you press your teeth together.
The Stomach 36 acupressure point, also known as Zusanli or Leg Three Miles, is typically stimulated to relieve:
It is located below your knee. If you place your hand on your kneecap, it’s typically where your pinky is resting. You should apply pressure in a downward motion to the outside of your shin bone.
The EXHN1 acupressure points, also known as Sishencong, are believed to relieve head pain, including tension-type headaches.
A
It is a group of four points at the vertex of the head around Bai Hu (GV20), in front of, behind, and to either side of GV20.
The EXHN3 acupressure point, also known as Yintang or the Hall of Impression, is associated with mental stability and relaxation.
A
It is located in the center of the forehead between the eyebrows.
Acupressure should not be used in place of a visit to a dentist or doctor.
However, it can help provide temporary pain relief along with traditional treatments for toothaches, like pain relievers, until you can schedule a dentist or doctor’s appointment.
You should contact your doctor if:
- your pain is worsening or unbearable
- you have a fever
- you have swelling in your mouth, face, or neck
- you’re experiencing difficulty swallowing or breathing
- you’re bleeding from the mouth
Acupressure is generally viewed as safe.
However, if you experience worsening pain while stimulating acupressure points, do not continue. Acupressure should not hurt. If you are in pain while performing acupressure, talk with a doctor.
You should also talk with a doctor before performing acupressure if you are pregnant or have chronic health conditions.
People who are pregnant should not stimulate Jianjing (GB21) or He gu (LI4), as they have the potential to induce labor.
Acupressure might temporarily relieve tooth, gum, or mouth pain by using one or all of the suggested acupressure points.
However, acupressure should not be used in place of a visit to the doctor or dentist. Do not continue to practice acupressure if your pain becomes worse while you are doing it.
Regular dental appointments and following recommended dental hygiene practices may help prevent future tooth pain. This can include brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing daily.