Home Tooth Sensitivity Remedies that Actually Work

 

There is nothing more cringe-inducing than the sudden, sharp pain that shoots through your mouth when drinking something ice cold. Sensitive teeth can literally leave someone speechlessly in pain. Luckily, there are many home remedies that can treat such pain and tooth sensitivity quickly.

In this article, we will discover the root cause of sensitive teeth and provide you with 6 effective treatments that can help relieve your pain.

Why do I have sensitive teeth?

Tooth sensitivity typically comes in the form of a sharp, stinging pain within the tooth and gum as a reaction to eating or drinking something at an extreme temperature. This type of pain is most indicative of worn tooth enamel. 

Enamel is the outermost protective layer of your teeth. It acts as the first line of defense for your teeth and allows you to chew effectively. Oftentimes you can wear your enamel down by brushing your teeth too vigorously or using bristles that are too firm. When this occurs, your enamel can thin and react sensitively to hot and cold.

1. Use desensitizing agents

There are great products on the market that can help encourage enamel growth and add some extra protection to your teeth. These products include toothpaste and mouthwash options that contain potassium and potassium nitrate. These two elements have proven to help strengthen enamel, and can even block the pain receptors within your teeth from sending pain signals to your brain.

2. Make sure your toothpaste is fluoride based

In addition, fluoride may be one of the most important ingredients to a healthy mouth. Fluoride has cleansing and restorative properties that significantly slow tooth decay and enamel wear. By using fluoride based toothpaste and mouthwash, you are treating your sensitive teeth at their root cause.

3. Rinse your mouth with saltwater

Saltwater is a classic home remedy for several oral ailments, including teeth sensitivity, and for good reason. Saltwater is an excellent and natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory. Oftentimes, tooth sensitivity is associated with gum irritation and inflammation. This pairing can cause some cringe-worthy pain.

Your saltwater concoction is easy to mix up. Adding about ½ teaspoon of regular table salt to a 6-8 ounce glass of water is all it takes. The best procedure when rinsing your mouth is to swish saltwater for 30 seconds before spitting, and repeat several times.

4. The magic of oil pulling

Oil pulling is a traditional Indian practice that has been performed for thousands of years. When done correctly, it can be a very calming experience that can significantly cleanse your mouth. Swishing an oil like extra-virgin coconut oil for 10-20 minutes creates an environment within your mouth for good bacteria to prosper and bad bacteria to be removed. 

Of the differing types of bacteria found in our mouths, many are good and strengthen your teeth and gums. Oil pulling is a great home remedy to reduce pain and cleanse the mouth.

5. Numb the pain with clove gel

Everyone who has had an oral procedure, like a filling or crown, is thankful for medical numbing agents used to block the pain. Studies have shown that clove oil shares many of the same numbing components as traditional medical numbing agents, and can be used as a natural and effective pain blocker. 

Applying a clove gel or oil to your gums can bring immediate relief to your tooth aches and pains.

6. Reduce inflammation with turmeric

Turmeric is another traditional Indian remedy that can help reduce tooth sensitivity, inflammation and pain. It contains a compound called curcumin, a powerful and natural anti-inflammatory that has been observed to increase the body’s natural antioxidants. Take a few minutes to coat your teeth in turmeric to soothe tooth sensitivity and relieve inflammation.

Protect your teeth against sensitivity

For the most part, tooth sensitivity should be a temporary experience that only for a short period of time. If you notice that you have frequent or constant tooth sensitivity, it is important to see your dentist when possible.

Don’t settle with living a life of tooth sensitivity, irritation or pain. Schedule a same-day appointment with Canyon Family Dentistry & Orthodontics, where our compassionate dental specialists are equipped to quickly relieve you of your dental pain. Set up your visit today when you call (702) 899-0735.