The 4 Most Efficient Treatments for Teeth Sensitivity You Can Do at Home

Have you ever experienced a sudden, sharp pain in the teeth when, say, tasted something cold or hot? That very unpleasant feeling that makes you cringe so much and brought you actual physical pain? Yes, you are not alone. It is a prevalent feeling that many people have experienced, and neglecting it with the thought “it’ll go away on its own” will only make things worse. It called tooth sensitivity, and according to a study conducted by the Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA), 1 in 8 people have sensitive teeth. However, only a small percentage of them talk to their dentists about the condition.

One of the worst things you can do if you have sensitive teeth, even insignificant or mild feeling of pain, is leaving it be. Let’s get closer to the matter.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

The causes of the appearance of tooth sensitivity are numerous. It can be a result of the consumption of hot and cold food and drinks or sticky and hard candy. Another reason why the teeth are sensitive is the consumption of acidic food and beverages such as citrus fruits and alcohol. Next, brushing too hard also leads to tooth sensitivity as well as gum recession. What follows is the various kinds of teeth diseases, including gingivitis, which make the gums inflames and the teeth very susceptible to outer stimuli.

It should also be mentioned that plaque build-up and teeth grinding are common causers of tooth sensitivity as well as long-term mouthwash. Finally, dental procedures happen to make the teeth sensitive even though this feeling goes away on its own after a couple of days.

Why Tooth Sensitivity Happens?

Okay, so you’ve learned what causes tooth sensitivity, but why does it happen is still a blur? Well, here is why.

Due to all of the reasons mentioned before, the outer layer which protects the tooth – the enamel is being slowly destroyed. Stripped away enamel means exposing the second layer of the tooth, the dentin, to the outer stimuli. As the dentin is the living tissue which receives all the stimuli and transfers them to the pulp with the small tubules, it hurts a lot when unrecognizable stimuli reach it. It has a lot of nerves in the dentinal tubules, and they are the ones that transmit the pain, thus making you feel that sharp, unbearable pain.

How to Treat Tooth Sensitivity?

Now we know what it is and why it happens. The most important follow – how to prevent it and, if we are already suffering from it, how to treat tooth sensitivity? Here are the most efficient ways to do so.

1) By using desensitizing toothpaste

These toothpastes contain essential minerals, including fluoride, calcium, and phosphate, which help minimize the effect of tooth sensitivity. They make the teeth strong and protected and prevent them from feeling pain when eating or drinking hot or cold food or drinks. Some of these toothpaste, like Mi paste, for example, contain RECALDENT ingredient, which is a naturally occurring protein naturally found in the cow’s milk. It brings the teeth a significant amount of calcium and phosphate.

Moreover, these desensitizing toothpaste can be used as an anti-plaque treatment for the teeth because they protect the nerve endings in the pulp. They can be bought without a prescription and can be used several times a day. However, the instruction of use depends on the brand and type of toothpaste that you are using, so always consult your dentist for the precise instructions.

2) By rinsing with saltwater

An old home remedy, but, according to many people, still efficient when you don’t have a lot of options on your hands at home, is rinsing the mouth with saltwater. Saltwater is known to be an effective antiseptic, which also reduces inflamed gums. Rinsing the mouth with salt water twice a day is usually the right way to go. What you do is add half a spoon of salt in a glass of lukewarm water and stir it to mix well. Then, swish the solution about 30 seconds in the mouth and then spit it out. You should feel instant relief.

3) By rinsing with honey and warm water

Another home-made rinse is honey and warm water. Honey is a very famous antibacterial agent, and it can help to heal, reducing pain and fast recovery from inflammation. Put a spoon of honey in warm water and swish the solution for about 30 seconds in the mouth. You’ll be surprised how relieved you will feel.

4) By seeing your dentist

When the pain becomes unbearable, see your dentist immediately. Tooth sensitivity can lead to much more severe dental problems that can threaten your dental and overall general health. The dentist will know the extent of enamel destruction and discover the root of the problem. They might even have to perform a dental procedure like bonding, crowns, or inlays or do a fluoride treatment to start the remineralization process of the tooth.

To sum up

Tooth sensitivity looks like a very insignificant problem to deal with; however, it can start insignificantly but develop into far grave medical condition to the point where you might even lose teeth. Never be a hero and suffer through the pain without doing something about it and prevent it from appearing with regular oral hygiene and the use of appropriate dental products.