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Tooth sensitivity is a condition that affects most adults and is also uncomfortable. It manifests as excruciating pain in the teeth when they come into contact with hot or cold foods. Several factors can cause this dental problem. There are now many natural remedies to soothe this pain.
Here is a guide explaining the remedies for tooth sensitivity.
Tooth sensitivity: what is it?
Tooth hypersensitivity affects a large number of people. It is caused by foods or drinks that are particularly hot, cold, sweet, or acidic. Normally, dentin, the layer that contains the dental nerve, is covered by enamel at the crown of the tooth and by the gums surrounding the tooth. Over time, tooth enamel becomes thinner and protects the dentin much less effectively. In addition, the gums tend to recede. This is called gum recession. The dentin therefore becomes exposed.
Why do you have sensitive teeth?
Dentin hypersensitivity is a common and often harmless symptom that appears when the dentin is affected. It is a sharp pain triggered when the teeth come into contact with a sweet or acidic food or a cold or hot liquid. It can also occur while brushing or when you breathe in a breath of cool air.
Sensitive teeth may be associated with poor oral hygiene, inflammation, or gum recession. In fact, when you use an improper toothbrushing technique, you can cause gum recession over time. This can also cause plaque to turn into tartar and lead to complications. Dentin hypersensitivity may also be linked to wear caused by bruxism, meaning tooth grinding that occurs when there is no swallowing or chewing.
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What techniques can be used to treat tooth sensitivity?
Regardless of how quickly it develops or how intense it is, dentin hypersensitivity indicates the presence of a more serious problem. However, many people consider this pain normal, which is why they do not necessarily seek solutions to resolve the problem.
There are several techniques for treating tooth sensitivity or, at the very least, reducing the discomfort once it appears:
- Use toothpaste suitable for fragile and sensitive teeth.
- Choose fluoride toothpaste, which helps protect your teeth against cavities.
- Choose fluoride toothpaste recognized by the Canadian Dental Association and specially designed for sensitive teeth.
- Choose a toothbrush with soft, fine bristles that allows you to brush your teeth gently.
- Do not brush your teeth too quickly.
- Maintain good oral hygiene.
- Get into the habit of brushing your teeth at least twice a day, and do not neglect flossing to remove all residue between your teeth.
- Wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth after consuming acidic foods, as they soften tooth enamel.
- If you grind your teeth, wear a custom-fitted protective mouthguard made by your dentist at night.
Regular visits to your dentist can help you manage tooth sensitivity. Through a thorough dental examination, your dentist will be able to determine the cause of your pain and the steps to take to restore your smile.
You can choose the Y-Brush fluoride chewable toothpaste. This toothpaste consists of 60 mint-flavored tablets. It helps reduce acid attacks, fight bacteria, combat plaque, and freshen breath.
What are the natural remedies for tooth sensitivity?
Many plants and spices have analgesic or anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe tooth hypersensitivity.
Clove and peppermint
In addition to its antibacterial properties, clove essential oil helps numb pain. This is possible thanks to eugenol, which is known as an anesthetic substance. Simply apply a few drops to the painful areas. You will feel a tingling sensation before the pain subsides. If you do not have clove essential oil, you can use cloves. You should chew them so that your saliva releases the eugenol. Its anesthetic effect can last 30 minutes.
As for peppermint, in addition to soothing your pain, it freshens your breath. To benefit from its properties, steep dried leaves in boiling water. Once the infusion has cooled, gargle with it throughout the day.
Ginger and cayenne mixture
This mixture is well known for its anti-inflammatory properties. A mixture of ginger and cayenne is an effective remedy for sensitive teeth. Some components of ginger have shown beneficial effects in reducing inflammation. These include gingerols, paradols, and shogaols. Cayenne, meanwhile, contains capsaicin, which affects substance P. The latter is a neurotransmitter that triggers pain and acts as a mild analgesic.
Cayenne tricks the body into no longer feeling pain by temporarily depleting its substance P reserves. To relieve your pain, soak a cotton pad in a paste made from ginger, cayenne pepper, and a little water. Then simply place the cotton pad on your teeth.
Garlic
For many years, garlic has been used and is especially recognized for its medicinal properties. It can destroy the bacteria responsible for dental plaque. It can also act as an analgesic. Therefore, crush a clove, make it into a paste, and apply it to the affected area. You can also add a small pinch of salt to the mixture. If this method does not suit you, you can gently chew the fresh garlic clove.
Vanilla extract
The alcohol in vanilla extract may soothe pain. It also has antioxidant properties that make it a highly effective healing agent. To use it, dab some vanilla extract onto cotton or your finger. Then apply it immediately to the affected area a few times a day.
Saltwater rinse
Salt water is an excellent natural disinfectant that can help remove food particles stuck between the teeth. A saltwater treatment can also help reduce inflammation and heal mouth sores. To prepare this treatment, mix half a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water. Then use this mixture as a mouthwash.
Hydrogen peroxide rinse
A hydrogen peroxide rinse is effective for soothing pain and inflammation. It kills bacteria, reduces plaque, and heals bleeding gums. Before using it, you must dilute it properly. Mix equal parts 3% hydrogen peroxide and water. Use the mixture as a mouthwash and do not swallow it.
We hope this guide has helped you understand tooth sensitivity. It is important to understand why you have sensitive teeth. Knowing the different techniques and remedies that can make your teeth less sensitive will help you feel better.
