Best pressure points for toothache and how they work

Toothache is one of those pains that instantly makes you rethink every life decision that led you to skip flossing. While nothing replaces a proper dental exam, some people find that using pressure points for toothache can take the edge off until they can see a dentist. Think of acupressure as a temporary “volume down” button for pain, not a permanent fix.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the most commonly used acupressure points for tooth pain, how they’re believed to work, what the science actually says, and when you should close the browser tab and call your dentist immediately. We’ll also finish with real-world experiences and practical tips, so you know what to expect if you decide to try pressure points yourself.

Important disclaimer: Pressure points and acupressure do not treat the underlying cause of a toothache. If you have moderate or severe pain, pain lasting more than a day or two, swelling, fever, or trouble opening your mouth, you should contact a dentist or urgent care right away.

Why toothaches hurt so badly (and why pressure points are only a backup plan)

Tooth pain is usually a sign that something inside the tooth or surrounding tissues is irritated or damaged. Common causes include cavities, cracked teeth, gum disease, sinus infections that refer pain to the teeth, or post-procedure soreness after dental work.

The American Dental Association and major U.S. dental clinics recommend that persistent or severe toothache be evaluated promptly by a dentist, especially when it lasts more than one or two days, is severe, or comes with swelling, fever, or ear pain. These can be signs of infection or other serious problems that need professional treatment, not just home remedies.

So where do pressure points for toothache relief fit in? They’re generally considered a short-term, non-drug option you might use:

• In the middle of the night when you can’t get an appointment yet
• While you’re waiting for pain medicine to kick in (if it’s safe for you to use painkillers)
• To help calm anxiety and muscle tension around the jaw and face

Used correctly, acupressure is usually gentle, low-risk, and easy to try at home. But again: if your toothache is serious, acupressure is a bridge to the dentist, not a detour.

How pressure points for toothache are thought to work

The idea of using pressure points for pain comes from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), which talks about channels of energy (or qi) running through the body. Stimulating specific points on these channels is believed to help balance energy, improve circulation, and relieve pain in corresponding areas of the body.

Modern medicine looks at it a bit differently. Several theories have been proposed for how acupressure and acupuncture might reduce pain:

• Gate control theory: Stimulating nerves in one area (like your hand) may “crowd out” or modulate pain signals traveling to the brain from another area (like your jaw).
• Release of natural painkillers: Studies on acupuncture show that stimulating certain points can trigger the release of endorphins and other neurotransmitters that influence pain perception.
• Muscle relaxation and blood flow: Some face and jaw points are located in major chewing muscles. Applying pressure may help relax tight muscles and improve local circulation, easing pain and tension.
• Stress and anxiety reduction: Acupressure has also been shown in some dental studies to lower anxiety and reduce perceived pain during procedures, especially in children and people undergoing orthodontic treatment.

Evidence specifically for toothache acupressure is still limited. Reviews of acupuncture for acute dental painsuch as pain after wisdom tooth removalsuggest it can reduce pain and medication use in some patients, though the studies are small and vary in quality. Some recent research on acupressure for dental injections shows benefits, while other trials (including one focused on the LI4 point) found no meaningful difference from sham acupressure.

Bottom line: pressure points may help some people feel less tooth pain, but they’re not a guaranteed cure, and they don’t replace dental care.

Safety first: when to avoid acupressure

Before we get into specific toothache pressure points, a few safety guidelines:

• Never rely on acupressure alone for signs of infection: swelling, fever, foul taste, pus, or a hot, throbbing tooth are red flags. Call a dentist or urgent care immediately.
• Be cautious if you’re pregnant: Traditional acupuncture teaching lists several “forbidden” points during pregnancy, including LI4 (on the hand) and GB21 (on the shoulder), because they’re thought to potentially stimulate uterine activity. While modern evidence is mixed, reputable sources still advise caution and consulting your prenatal provider before stimulating these points.
• Avoid broken or irritated skin: Don’t press on areas with cuts, bruises, rashes, or active skin infections.
• Use comfortable pressure: Acupressure should feel like “good pain” at mostfirm but tolerablenot like you’re trying to crush your own hand.
• Stop if you feel worse: If you get dizzy, nauseated, or your pain suddenly spikes, stop and rest.

If you have a medical condition, are pregnant, or take blood thinners, talk with your healthcare provider before using acupressure regularly.

The best pressure points for toothache (and how to find them)

1. LI4 (Hegu) – The classic hand point for face and tooth pain

Location: On the back of your hand, in the fleshy “web” between your thumb and index finger. If you pinch your thumb and index finger together, you’ll see a small mound. LI4 is at the highest point of that mound; relax your hand before pressing.

How to use it:

• Use the thumb of your opposite hand to press into the webbing.
• Apply steady, firm pressureenough to feel tenderness but not sharp pain.
• Hold for 30–60 seconds, then gently massage in small circles.
• Switch hands and repeat several times.

Why it’s used: LI4 is one of the most commonly recommended acupressure points for pain in the face, teeth, and head. It’s used in hospital pain programs for headaches and general pain management as well.

Notes: Because LI4 is traditionally considered a “forbidden” point in pregnancy, pregnant people should avoid using this point unless advised otherwise by a qualified provider.

2. ST6 (Jiache) – The jaw muscle point

Location: On the side of your jaw, roughly one finger-width in front of the angle of the jaw (the corner near your earlobe). Clench your teeth gently and feel for a firm bulge in the masseter musclethat’s the ST6 area.

How to use it:

• Place one or two fingertips over the bulge of the muscle.
• Apply gentle to moderate pressure, aiming for a deep, achy sensation rather than sharp pain.
• Hold for 30–60 seconds while breathing slowly.
• Repeat on the other side.

Why it’s used: ST6 is commonly recommended for toothache, jaw tension, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) discomfort. Because it sits right in the chewing muscle, releasing tension here can ease pain that radiates into the teeth and face.

3. ST7 (Xiaguan) – The joint-area jaw point

Location: Just in front of the ear canal, where your upper and lower jaw meet. If you open and close your mouth, you can feel the joint move under your fingertipsthat’s near the ST7 area.

How to use it:

• Place a fingertip in front of the ear, just above the cheekbone.
• Open and close your mouth until you feel the hinge, then settle in a comfortable spot just slightly in front of it.
• Apply very gentle pressure (this area is often sensitive).
• Hold for 20–30 seconds while keeping your jaw as relaxed as possible.

Why it’s used: ST7 is used for TMJ pain, jaw stiffness, and some types of facial and tooth painespecially when the discomfort seems tied to clenching or grinding.

4. SI18 (Quanliao) – The cheekbone “hole” point

Location: On the cheek, just below the outer corner of the eye, in a small hollow under the cheekbone. Some guides describe it as directly under the pupil when you’re looking straight ahead.

How to use it:

• Use a fingertip or knuckle to gently press into the hollow under the cheekbone.
• Apply light to moderate pressure for 20–40 seconds.
• Repeat on both sides, even if your toothache is one-sided.

Why it’s used: SI18 is often used for facial pain, sinus pressure that radiates to the teeth, and upper jaw toothaches. If your “toothache” is actually from a sinus flare, this point may feel especially tender.

5. Shenmen – The ear point for calming and pain relief

Location: On the upper part of the ear, within the triangular fossa (the small, triangle-shaped depression).

How to use it:

• Use your thumb and index finger to gently pinch the upper area of the ear, or press with a fingertip.
• Apply light, steady pressure for 30–60 seconds.
• Repeat on both ears.

Why it’s used: Shenmen is a widely used auricular (ear) point for pain and anxiety. In dental research, ear acupuncture has been studied for reducing postoperative pain after wisdom tooth extraction, with some studies suggesting reduced pain scores when used alongside standard care.

6. GB21 (Gallbladder 21) – The shoulder tension point

Location: On the top of the shoulder, roughly halfway between the base of the neck and the outer edge of the shoulder.

How to use it:

• Reach across your body and grasp the top of your shoulder with the opposite hand.
• Use your fingertips to press into the firm muscle on top.
• Hold for 20–30 seconds, then slowly release.

Why it’s used: GB21 is traditionally used for neck and shoulder tension and is sometimes included in point prescriptions for head and tooth pain. Releasing shoulder and neck tightness can indirectly reduce jaw clenching and facial tension.

Important pregnancy note: GB21, like LI4, is traditionally avoided in pregnancy because it’s thought to promote uterine contractions. Pregnant people should talk with their healthcare provider before using this point.

How to use pressure points for toothache safely and effectively

Once you know where the main toothache pressure points are, here’s how to build a quick, safe routine:

1. Wash your hands before touching your face or ears.
2. Start with LI4 on one hand, then the other, for 30–60 seconds each.
3. Add jaw and face points: ST6, ST7, and SI18 on both sides.
4. Finish with Shenmen in the ears and, if appropriate, GB21 for upper body tension.
5. Breathe slowly throughout the routine. Inhale through the nose, exhale through the mouth, keeping your shoulders relaxed.
6. Repeat as needed every few hours, as long as it feels comfortable and you’re not ignoring worsening symptoms.

Combine acupressure with other dentist-approved home measures, such as a warm or cold compress, saltwater rinses, and avoiding very hot, cold, or sugary foods, if these are safe for you.

What the science says (and doesn’t say) about pressure points for toothache

Research on acupressure for tooth pain is still emerging. Here’s the overall picture:

• Acupuncture for dental pain: Systematic reviews of acupuncture for postoperative dental pain (such as after wisdom tooth extraction) show reductions in pain and sometimes decreased need for pain medication compared to sham or standard care alone, although study quality varies.
• Acupressure during dental procedures: Some clinical studies in dental settings have found that acupressure at points like LI4 can help reduce anxiety and perceived pain during injections or orthodontic adjustments, especially in children and teens.
• Mixed results: A 2025 trial looking specifically at acupressure on LI4 for injection pain found no significant difference compared with a sham procedurereminding us that not all acupressure effects are dramatic or consistent across studies.

In short, acupressure seems safe for most people and may offer mild to moderate relief for some types of dental and facial pain, especially when combined with standard dental care. But it is not a proven stand-alone treatment for toothache, and it should not delay getting needed dental work.

When to stop pressing and call a professional

Use pressure points as a supportive tool, not your only tool. Contact a dentist or medical professional promptly if you notice:

• Severe tooth pain, especially if it doesn’t improve within 24–48 hours
• Swelling in your face, jaw, or gums
• Fever, feeling generally ill, or swollen lymph nodes
• Difficulty swallowing, breathing, or opening your mouth fully
• A bump, pimple-like spot, or oozing near the tooth (possible abscess)

Dentists and major oral health organizations emphasize that earlier evaluation usually means easier, less invasive treatment and better outcomes for your teeth and gums.

Experiences and practical lessons with toothache pressure points

If you’ve never tried pressure points before, it can feel a little strange to press your hand or ear to help a tooth that’s throbbing in your mouth. Here’s what many people typically notice when they experiment with toothache acupressureand how to make the most of it.

1. The relief, when it comes, is usually subtlenot a magic “off switch.”

Most people describe the effect as turning the pain down, not turning it off. You might go from “I can’t think straight” to “Okay, I can function until my appointment.” For example, pressing LI4 firmly for 30–60 seconds on each hand often shifts pain from sharp and spiky to dull and more manageable. That may not sound dramatic, but when you’re trying to sleep at 2 a.m., it can feel like a small miracle.

2. Tight jaw muscles are often the sneaky villains.

Many of us clench our jaws when we’re stressed, staring at screens, or grinding our teeth at night. When you press on ST6 (the masseter muscle) or ST7 (near the jaw joint), you may be surprised at how tender those spots areeven on the “good” side. Spending a minute gently massaging both sides of your jaw can reduce that locked-up feeling and lessen the radiating ache into nearby teeth.

3. It doubles as a stress-management trick.

Tooth pain and anxiety are best friends. Acupressure sessions that combine slow breathing with gentle pressure on LI4, Shenmen in the ear, or even the shoulder point GB21 can calm your nervous system while you wait for professional help. Many people notice their shoulders drop, jaw relax, and heart rate slow after a few cycles of acupressure plus deep breathing.

4. Technique matters more than brute force.

A common beginner mistake is pressing too hard, thinking “more pressure equals more results.” In reality, extreme pressure can make you tense up and actually worsen your pain. Aim for a steady, moderate pressure that feels like a deep massagenot like pinching yourself with pliers. You should be able to breathe and talk while you apply pressure.

5. Both sides of the body are worth treating.

Even if your toothache is on one side, acupressure is typically done on points on both sides of the body. Think of it as balancing your system rather than just chasing the pain around. Press LI4 on both hands, ST6 and ST7 on both sides of the jaw, and SI18 on both cheeks. Many people find that working bilaterally gives a more global sense of relief and relaxation.

6. It’s most effective as part of a “toolkit,” not the only tool.

Real-world success stories usually involve a combination of strategies: acupressure, cold or warm compresses, sleep positioning (head slightly elevated), avoiding biting on the sore tooth, and over-the-counter pain relievers when appropriate. People who do best with pressure points are often those who treat them as one piece of a bigger self-care plan, not a cure-all.

7. Knowing your red lines keeps things safe.

Experienced users of acupressure quickly learn a key rule: “If it’s getting worse, not better, it’s dentist time.” If your pain escalates, swelling increases, or you start to feel sickespecially with fever or difficulty swallowingyou stop experimenting with pressure points and seek urgent care. That balanceopen to trying gentle, low-risk techniques, but quick to call the dentist when warning signs appearis what makes acupressure a helpful ally rather than a risky distraction.

Over time, some people even incorporate these toothache pressure points into their daily routine when they know they’re prone to clenching or jaw tension. A quick round of LI4, ST6, and ST7 before bed or after a stressful day at work may help keep jaw discomfort, headaches, and minor tooth sensitivity from spiraling into full-blown pain.

Conclusion

Using pressure points for toothache can be a useful, drug-free way to take the edge off tooth pain, calm your nervous system, and get through the hours before you can see a dentist. Points like LI4 on the hand, ST6 and ST7 around the jaw, SI18 on the cheekbone, Shenmen in the ear, and GB21 on the shoulder are some of the most commonly recommended spots for dental and facial pain.

The science suggests acupressure and acupuncture can help with certain types of dental pain and anxiety, but results are mixed, and these techniques are best used as a complementnot a replacementfor professional dental care. If your toothache is severe, persistent, or comes with red-flag symptoms like swelling, fever, or difficulty opening your mouth, don’t rely on pressure points alone. Call your dentist or an emergency clinic as soon as possible.

Used wisely, though, toothache pressure points can be a helpful tool in your pain-relief toolkitone that fits in your pocket, requires no prescription, and might just make that long night waiting for a dental appointment a little more bearable.