Home remedies for sensitive teeth

Tooth sensitivity has various causes. The most common reason is the exposed root which is exposed due to the recession of the gum. There are many factors which lead to sensitive teeth.

Causes of Sensitive Teeth

• Over brushing: Brushing hardly and that too for a long time can cause the wearing off of the enamel and exposure of dentin to stimulus such as hot, cold, sweet food etc. This will lead to sensitive teeth.
• Gum recession or any other game disease: Inflammation of the gums because sensitivity as the roots are exposed which lead directly to the nerve of the tooth.
• Grinding the teeth: We often see that the children are scolded by their parents for grinding their teeth because grinding those teeth causes wearing off of the enamel and exposure of the dentin which will further lead to sensitivity.
• Products which whiten the teeth: The products which claim whitening of the teeth often are the biggest enemy of your teeth as they cause erosion of the teeth and you should consult a dentist before using any such product.
• Mouthwashes: Certain mouthwashes which are commonly available in the market contain acids which can worsen your sensitivity especially whose dentin are already exposed. These acids can lead to further damage of the dentin layer.
• Acidic foods: People who consume foods which are high in acidic content are more prone to the erosion of the enamel than others.
• Others: Certain procedures such as tooth filling or cleaning of the tooth can lead to temporary sensitivity which will subside on its own within a few days.

In this article we are going to discuss a few home remedies for tooth sensitivity.

Home Remedies for Sensitive Teeth

• Rinsing with salt water: We all are well aware of the fact that salt is a natural antiseptic and helps in reducing inflammation. So you can mix a teaspoon of salt with hot water and rinse twice daily for getting rid of sensitivity.
• Cold compress with ice: You can apply a cold compress to relieve inflammation and dental pain. This will help to reduce your sensitivity and provide temporary relief.
• Green tea: We all are well aware of the health benefits of green tea but most of us don't know that it can also be used as a mouthwash and is very helpful in reducing inflammation and strengthening the teeth. 
• Hydrogen peroxide rinse: This can help you greatly as it helps in preventing inflammation and healing the gums. You can make a solution of hydrogen peroxide and warm water and use this solution for rinsing for about 45 seconds to 1 minute but the correct concentration of hydrogen peroxide must be kept in mind.
• Garlic: Garlic helps in reducing the bacteria as it contains a compound allicin which helps in prevention of build up of bacteria and relieving pain.
• Onion: You can cut an onion and place a small slice on the affected area to relieve pain because onion has anti inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. 
• Use toothpaste with desensitising action: There are several desensitising toothpaste available in the market which contain very fever ingredients which irritate the nerves of the tooth. You should first use a brand and observe whether your sensitivity is reduced or not. If you observe a reduction in sensitivity, continue using that brand but if there is no difference you may switch to another brand. It is very important to choose a brand which works well for your condition.
• Use a gentle toothbrush: Make sure your toothbrush is not very hard because it can cause wearing off the enamel and exposure of dentin, hence it is very important to use a soft toothbrush. Also one should avoid over brushing and should brush on an average for 2.5 to 3 minutes.
• Clove oil: Clove oil helps in disinfecting the mouth and numbing the portion which is causing pain and discomfort.
• Coconut oil: Swishing with virgin coconut oil for two to three minutes can help to reduce tooth pain as it has anti inflammatory properties.
• Avoid teeth grinding: Teeth grinding must be avoided because as discussed above it leads to wearing off the enamel and exposure of dentin.
• Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush twice a day and don't hesitate in visiting a dentist if you observe any problem with your teeth. 

Disclaimer

The remedies discussed in this article are only for educational and awareness purposes and before trying any of these remedies you should consult a dentist