How to Soothe Sensitive Teeth
It was supposed to be such a pleasant experience. You go into the bathroom, grab items from the cabinet, and glide them across your teeth the way you've done a hundred times before.
This time is different, though. Instead of a slick glide, an abrasive grating sends a shiver through your jaw. Your teeth are as sensitive as they've ever been, and now you're worried about whether this is a permanent change.
The answer is not that simple, but there is something you can do to soothe those sensitive teeth and return them to normal. We'll tell you all about how to soothe sensitive teeth. Keep reading to find out more!
But First, What Causes Sensitive Teeth?
A number of different things can cause sensitive teeth. It can be because of tooth decay, gum disease, brushing too hard, using a stiff brush, grinding your teeth at night, or regularly drinking acidic foods and beverages.
Teeth can also be sensitive after getting dental procedures done. Who knows? It could just be post filling tooth pain that will go away in a matter of days. So it's essential to determine if your teeth are susceptible or just had a procedure done.
How Do I Know if My Teeth Are Sensitive?
If you're unsure whether your teeth are sensitive, pay attention to how they feel after you eat or drink something hot, cold, sweet, or acidic. Take note of the common symptoms and assess the pain or numbness.
You may also feel sensitivity when you breathe in cold air. If your teeth are sensitive, you may feel pain, a sharp shooting sensation, or tingling.
How to Soothe Sensitive Teeth With Home Remedies
Your first line of defense is home remedies. When it comes to soothing sensitive teeth, especially when the pain you are feeling is not too much, you might just need to do these things to make yourself feel better. The great thing about the things listed below is that you can do them easily without complicated instructions or materials.
Use a Sensitive Toothbrush
Brush your teeth twice a day with a sensitive toothbrush. These are toothbrushes with soft bristles.
Be sure to brush your teeth for two minutes each time. Use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste on your toothbrush. Avoid brushing too hard. If your gums bleed, you are brushing too hard.
Floss Regularly
When you floss, you remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums, which causes irritation and inflammation. Also, flossing can help get your saliva flowing, which can help protect your teeth and gums from acid damage.
You should floss at least once a day and more if you have sensitive teeth.
Use a Mouth Rinse or Gel
Use a mouth rinse or gel that is specially formulated for sensitive teeth. These products can help block the pain signals sent to the brain, providing relief from pain and discomfort.
Be sure to follow the directions on the package, and swish the rinse or gel around your mouth for the recommended amount of time. Spit it out after swishing.
Rinse Your Mouth With a Mixture of Baking Soda and Water
This will help to neutralize the acids that are making the teeth sensitive and will also help to remineralize the tooth enamel. Be sure to spit the mixture out after rinsing, and do not swallow it.
Use a Saltwater Solution
One way you can soothe sensitive teeth is by using a saltwater solution. Simply dissolve one teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and swish it in your mouth for a minute or two.
You can do this a few times a day as needed. Like other rinses, salt water can also help reduce inflammation and pain in your gums and teeth.
Try Tree Tea Oil
It has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help reduce the pain you're experiencing. Add a few drops of tree tea oil to a glass of water and swish it around your mouth for a minute or two before spitting it out. You can also add a few drops to a cotton ball and apply it directly to your gums.
Use Honey and Warm Water
Mix one teaspoon of honey with warm water and swish it around your mouth for a minute. Spit it out and rinse it with cold water. You can do this several times a day until your symptoms improve.
Honey is a natural antibacterial and can help to reduce inflammation in the gums. Warm water will help to loosen any debris that may be irritating.
Try Capsaicin
This is the active ingredient in chili peppers that gives them their heat. You can find capsaicin powder online or at some health food stores.
To use it, mix a quarter teaspoon of the powder with a cup of water and swish it around your mouth for a minute before spitting it out. You may need to do this a few times daily to see results.
Experiment With Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce sensitivity. When used topically, it can help to numb the gums and reduce inflammation.
To use turmeric for sensitive teeth, mix a teaspoon of turmeric powder with a little water to form a paste. Apply the paste to your gums and teeth and leave for 10 minutes before rinsing. You can also add a pinch of turmeric to your toothpaste.
Avoid Some Foods and Drinks
Cold foods and drinks can trigger sensitive teeth. So can hot foods and beverages. Acidic foods and drinks, such as citrus fruits and juices, can also worsen sensitive teeth. Sugary foods and beverages can also cause pain in people with sensitive teeth.
Specifically, avoid ice cream, soda, hot and cold coffee, hard and sticky candy, and fruits like oranges, tomatoes, and ice. If you have sensitive teeth, avoid these foods and drinks or eat them in moderation.
How To Soothe Sensitive Teeth With Over-the-Counter Products
If home remedies do not work, it might be time to visit the pharmacy. The list below shows a few things you can do with the aid of over-the-counter products. In your own research about these products, make sure you read extensively about how they can help sensitive teeth.
Even if they are recommended to be taken, note that not all products work for everybody. A particular brand might work for some and have little to no results for others. Consider your own biology as well when deciding which brands and products to try.
Use a Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth
Toothpaste for sensitive teeth is designed to help soothe and protect sensitive teeth. It is vital to use toothpaste specifically designed for sensitive teeth to get the best results.
There are many brands available, but be sure to read the labels on the toothpaste to find one that is right for you.
Use a Desensitizing Strip
When choosing a desensitizing strip, be sure to read the labels carefully. Some products may only be effective for a short period, while others may provide longer-lasting relief.
To use a desensitizing strip, simply follow the instructions on the package. You'll most likely need to apply the product to your teeth and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing it off. You may need to do this several times a day to see results.
Try a Fluoride Rinse
A fluoride rinse is an easy way to soothe sensitive teeth and keep them healthy. Simply mix a teaspoon of fluoride with water and swish it around your mouth for one minute. Spit it out and rinse it with water. You can do this once a day or as needed.
This is because fluoride is a mineral that helps protect teeth from decay. It can also help reduce sensitivity by making teeth more resistant to acids and other substances that can cause pain. There are many brands of fluoride rinses available.
Consult Your Dentist
If home remedies and over-the-counter products do not work, it's time to visit your dentist. They will be able to help you determine the cause of your sensitivity and provide treatment that can help.
For example, your dentist may recommend a gum graft if the sensitivity is due to gum recession. They may also recommend dental bonding or veneers.
Do It the Right Way
If you have sensitive teeth, you can do a few things to help ease the discomfort. First, try some home remedies and see if they work for you. Then there are over-the-counter products on the market, so you can also give them a try and see if they are compatible and will soothe sensitive teeth.
If you are still experiencing pain, you may ask your dentist about other possible treatments. The best thing to do on how to soothe sensitive teeth is to figure out what works best for you with a medical professional.
Whether you are looking for dental tips or need advice on your other problems, we are here for you. Check out the rest of our blog for more information!
