Tooth sensitivity is sudden, severe pain in the teeth and gums that can feel like a severe nerve tingling. About one in eight people suffer from tooth sensitivity, which can range from mild to severe, according to the Journal of the American Dental Association. While the problem is usually triggered when you consume sweets and very cold or hot foods and drinks, stimulants can vary from person to person. However, there are many effective medical options and home remedies that can significantly reduce pain sensitivity and tooth infection.
No one treatment works for everyone. Therefore, you may wish to explore all the options available to you before deciding how to proceed. Let's take a look at the best treatment options and home remedies that can help relieve dental discomfort.
Effective Dental Procedures for Sensitive Teeth
dental sealant
Want to prevent tooth decay? Dental sealant treatment may be one of the best treatment options. Glen Lake, a prominent Minnetonka family dentist, recommends sealants on back teeth because they have a higher risk of cavities. With the help of a thin resin coating in vulnerable areas, sealants can help protect teeth for about 6-10 years. The procedure also prevents cavities by preventing oral bacteria from coming into direct contact with exposed tooth surfaces.
Surgical Gum Graft
Surgical gum grafts or periodontal plastic surgery in cases of severely receded gums. The procedure involves removing a small tissue from any area inside the mouth and using it to replace and cover the infected gum. Not only does this treatment reduce tooth sensitivity, it also improves gum health for longer.
tooth root
You may also consider root canal treatment for sensitive, painful, and recurring teeth. During this procedure, the dentist removes all infected pulp from the affected tooth and deep nerves, which provides significant relief from swelling and pain. Subsequently, the inner surfaces are disinfected to prevent further enamel erosion and gum decay.
cavity filling
Another common but effective treatment for increased tooth sensitivity caused by cavities is cavity fillings. During this procedure, a drill or laser is used to remove the decayed portion of the tooth. Next, the area is filled with a ceramic or metallic filler, depending on cost affordability and specific conditions. After cavity filling surgery, patients usually shed their sensitivity to hot and cold stimuli very quickly.
High Fluoride Treatment
If the underlying cause of tooth sensitivity is ongoing enamel erosion, your dentist may recommend fluoride treatment. Fluoride can help rebuild lost tooth enamel, protect nerve endings, and prevent tooth decay. Different high-fluoride treatments include mouthwashes, toothpastes, and high-fluoride gels and varnishes that your dentist may put on your teeth for severe allergies.
Home Remedies for Tooth Pain
- Gargle with salt water: As a natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory compound, gargling with salt water is very effective in reducing tooth sensitivity and pain. For quick healing, take warm water and mix half a teaspoon of salt in it. Depending on the severity of the toothache, rinse your mouth 2 or 3 times a day.
- Use baking soda for sensitive teeth: Interestingly, baking soda helps prevent gum disease, balances the amount of acid in your mouth, and prevents tooth sensitivity.
- Try a desensitizing toothpaste: it protects nerve endings, rendering them numb for a short time. As a result, the affected area becomes numb for a period of time, providing quick relief from the hypersensitivity reaction.
- Apply garlic cloves to sensitive areas: Garlic contains antioxidant and healing properties that may help reduce swollen gums and tooth sensitivity. To relieve extreme tooth pain, take some garlic cloves and grind them into a fine powder. Apply it directly to sore teeth or inflamed gums, or mix it with salt to enhance its effects.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush: Hard-bristled toothbrushes can damage tooth enamel, leading to cavities and allergies. Additionally, they may exacerbate receding gums, exposing dentin and irritating sensitive nerves. So use a soft-bristled toothbrush and make sure you brush gently to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
- Disinfect your mouth with hydrogen peroxide: Hydrogen peroxide is an effective antiseptic that helps disinfect minor wounds and burns. Using it as a mouthwash can be great for treating recurring gum infections and inflammation. Rinse your mouth with equal parts hydrogen peroxide and warm water. Finally, make sure to rinse your mouth with water to remove any remaining mixture.
- Apply turmeric paste: Curcumin is a natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory compound found in turmeric. Gently rub turmeric powder on your teeth or make a paste with turmeric, salt, and mustard oil for pain relief on sensitive teeth. Apply it to sensitive gums and teeth twice daily for quick pain relief.
Tooth sensitivity is a common problem for many people, and it should not be taken lightly. You can try the home remedies listed above, but if it doesn't improve your condition, it's best to see your dentist for surgery. Dental surgery can provide effective and long-term solutions to your problems. Keep in mind that these home remedies may not work for everyone, so they should not be considered the only effective way to solve the problem. Professionals will be able to determine the root cause of the problem and provide solutions accordingly.
To prevent this from happening again, you must brush your teeth twice a day with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Don't force too much when brushing, use very gentle strokes. If you have a habit of grinding your teeth, you need to discuss using a mouthguard with your dentist, as grinding can cause teeth to break and lead to hypersensitivity. Even if you are treated, be careful when drinking or eating acidic beverages, as it can remove enamel from your teeth over time.