Merve Gökyar, İdil Özden, Hesna Sazak Öveçoğlu
Clinical Dentistry and Research - 2026;50(1):56-65
Background and Aim: This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate home-based methods used by individuals to manage toothache and to explore their associations with oral health and sociodemographic factors. Materials and Methods: A total of 327 participants completed a structured questionnaire, and Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) scores were determined through clinical and radiographic examination. Descriptive statistics and comparative analyses (Chi-square and Fisher's Exact tests, p < 0.05) were performed. Results: The most common self-care practices for toothache included self-medication with analgesics (72.0%), and home-based remedies, including saltwater rinses (55.8%), and herbal methods (65.2%); however, only 16.5% of participants perceived these methods as safe and effective. Education level was significantly associated with both the first response to toothache (p = 0.021) and DMFT index (p = 0.004). Moreover, education correlated positively with consulting online sources (p < 0.001) and health professionals (p = 0.038), while gender was associated with choosing pharmacist advice (p = 0.007). Conclusions: Although home-based self-care practices for toothache are widespread, they provide only temporary relief and may delay appropriate endodontic care. Enhancing oral health literacy and promoting timely professional consultation could improve both endodontic and community oral health outcomes.
