Sensitive teeth can be mildly uncomfortable or downright depressing sometimes. It’s a major holdback from devouring some of your favorite food items. If it could be of any comfort, though, surveys show that one in 8 people who visit dental clinics suffer from teeth sensitivity. So it’s quite a common condition, but of course, treatable!
Sensitivity In Teeth – Home Remedies!
It is observed that teeth sensitivity is not usually a permanent condition. You may occasionally get a sensitive tooth, which is exceptionally irritable toward citrus food and drinks and also to temperature extremities. And then usually it gets healed of its own as time goes on. In some cases, though (like in people who already suffer from other dental conditions) it prevails for a longer time.
In the meanwhile, here are some home remedies you can try to relieve yourself from the irritation for a bit:
- Saltwater mouthwash:
The first thing you could try is making a saltwater mouthwash, as it is the easiest method and there are no special ingredients. Saltwater balances the pH level inside the mouth, creating an alkaline environment that reduces bacterial growth and thereby neutralizes the citrus sensitivity. Repeat the process every morning and night until sensitivity improves.
- Oil Pulling:
A traditional Ayurvedic practice originating from India, this method involves swishing oil around the mouth for several minutes before spitting it out. This can be done using sesame or coconut oil, which has anti-inflammatory properties and can be of much help if you have sensitive teeth from a possible bacteria overgrowth. This can also reduce the symptoms of gum disease.
- Clove:
Clove has been traditionally used to treat most dental conditions or toothache. Recent researches have proved that clove gel can even be used as an effective substitute for benzocaine gel to numb the gums from the pain when inserting needles.
Applying clove gel or oil can help with tooth sensitivity or pain. It can also reduce any inflammation or bacteria overgrowth.
Best results are shown when used by mixing with orange essential oils. But be careful with the amount as these oils are very potent.
- Garlic:
This is again a traditional remedy for many health conditions including teeth sensitivity. Garlic contains valuable antibacterial compounds such as the beneficial allicin in high amounts and therefore helps maintain good oral health.
A slice of garlic can be chewed for a few minutes to produce these compounds inside the mouth or a paste of garlic made by grinding it with a few drops of water, and a pinch of salt can be applied to the affected teeth to reduce sensitivity.
- Turmeric:
The yellow spice, turmeric, is yet another Ayurvedic medicine that has anti-inflammatory properties. It contains curcumin, which may help relieve pain.
A paste of turmeric can be applied to the gums of the affected tooth to reduce inflammation and improve sensitivity.
- Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse:
The uses of the disinfectant, hydrogen peroxide, do not limit to disinfecting the floor or preventing your wounds from getting septic. This mild antiseptic can prevent inflammation and even help heal your gums.
Add two tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide (3%) to 2 tablespoons of warm water. Rinse your mouth for using this solution for up to 30 seconds.
- Green Tea:
Rinsing your teeth with green tea twice a day can help deal with sensitive teeth. Green tea reduces inflammation and strengthens your teeth.
You can also use it as a mouthwash substitute.
In addition to applying any of these products/remedies, here are a few steps you can follow:
- Do not subject your teeth to too hot or too cold food or drinks.
- Use toothbrushes made of soft bristles and be gentle with your teeth while brushing.
- Avoid acidic foods.
- Switch to sensitive toothpaste which does not contain ingredients that irritate the exposed nerves on your teeth.
- Use a cold compress for quick, temporary relief from pain.
All of the above-mentioned home remedies are only for temporary relief. If you have a sharper pain instead of mild discomfort, or if the mild pain persists for a longer period, make sure to visit your dentist immediately.
The primary concern is to maintain proper oral health and hygiene. Make sure to brush your teeth twice a day and do not overexpose your teeth to temperature because it weakens your enamel. Brushing your teeth too frequently or for too long can also cause the same. Do not prolong your visits to the dentist especially if you have sensitive teeth because it may even turn into gum diseases such as bleeding gums.