Charcoal is a miracle substance. There is a concern that must be repeated.
CAUTION Charcoal is quite effective in many situations, but it can cause death. When on medication, charcoal applied externally as well as taken internally can remove the medicine from the system. And, it can cause constipation and there is a possibility of tattooing on the skin when applied as an external poultice.
Warning: Do not use any charcoal except activated charcoal which is used in the hospital emergency room for poisoning. Do not use charcoals that are used for BBQs. They have chemicals in them.
Here are some pictures as to how to make a charcoal poultice to treat a toothache. It does not take the place of proper dental treatment. It can remove the pain from infection until treatment can be received.
Finished poultice is approximately 3/4 inch by 1 1/2 inch
I am using a piece of a napkin. It is torn so that I have a double thickness.
Mix a heaping tablespoon of powder charcoal and water till mixture is wet, but not runny.
One or two plies of napkin Spoon a lump onto napkin
Fold bottom up and top down Fold ends in
Turn poultice over
The side facing up is the side that goes against the gum where the infection is. Pull lip out to place the poultice between the lip and the gum. It helps to have the gum area wet so the poultice will slide into place without tearing. Work the poultice so that the poultice is against the sore tooth and gum. Leave it there for 8 hours and then change to a new poultice.
I would suggest that before making the poultice that charcoal water be swished in the mouth for ten or so minutes. Do not get on floor or clothes. Good to do outdoors if a child. Do not try and eat with the poultice in the mouth.