Ryan M. Buckwalter, DDS, FICOI, FAGD

1420 Greenbrier Place
Charlottesville, VA 22901

434.973.2224

Home Remedies for Sensitive Teeth

Having sensitive teeth can sometimes make eating and drinking a painful experience. However, certain home remedies may help reduce tooth sensitivity. If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity that won’t go away, come to the professionals at Hillcrest Dental in Charlottesville VA. We care deeply for all of our patients, and that’s why we believe in only using tools that will sustain the natural health of your teeth. Below, we explore some home remedies for curing sensitive teeth:

Common Causes of Sensitive Teeth

Teeth can become sensitive when the enamel, a tooth’s protective top layer, is worn down. When the enamel wears down, the dentin underneath can become more permeable, allowing liquids and gases to pass through it more easily. When substances pass through dentin to reach your nerve endings, a person may experience pain or discomfort.

Prevention Tips

  1. Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
  2. Flossing once a day
  3. Taking breaks from teeth whitening
  4. Limiting the consumption of sugary, starchy, and acidic foods
  5. Lessening alcohol consumption
  6. Wearing a mouthguard at night to prevent teeth grinding and clenching
  7. Seeing a dentist regularly
  8. Quit or reduce smoking habit

 

Home Remedies

Oil Pulling

To reduce gum disease and tooth sensitivity, swish sesame or coconut oil around your mouth for several minutes and then spit it out.

Guava Leaves

Chew guava leaves or use a topical gel containing guava leaf extract to help reduce tooth pain and sensitivity.

Clove Gel

Apply clove gel or oil to the gums. This may help reduce tooth sensitivity and pain.

Garlic

Briefly chewing on garlic can treat toothache, gum disease, and tooth sensitivity.

Saltwater Rinse

Using a saltwater rinse as a mouthwash is another way to fight bacteria in the mouth and improve oral hygiene.

Capsaicin Gel

Capsaicin is the spicy substance that occurs naturally in chili peppers. Although capsaicin can cause burning when a person applies it to their skin or gums, it may also reduce pain. Applying capsaicin gel to the gums may alleviate pain from sensitive teeth.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a yellow spice and an Ayurvedic remedy for reducing inflammation. Turmeric contains curcumin, which may help relieve pain. Mix turmeric and water, then rub it into your gums to help reduce tooth pain and sensitivity.

Fluoride

Using a fluoride toothpaste will reduce the risk of cavities and minimize tooth sensitivity.

When to See A Dentist

A dental examination may be necessary to identify the cause of severe tooth sensitivity. If a person experiences ongoing or severe tooth sensitivity and pain, they should see their dentist for an examination.

Hillcrest Dental: Dependable Dental Care in Charlottesville, VA

Many people experience tooth sensitivity and pain, which can result from the gradual erosion of tooth enamel. Good oral hygiene is the best way to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and the development of sensitivity. Home remedies may help with the pain, but if it becomes severe you should visit the experts at Hillcrest Dental in Charlottesville VA. We provide excellent, sensitive teeth services, and our experienced staff will help you feel more at home.

 

Contact us at (434) 973-2224 to let us help you keep your smile bright and beautiful.

  • "I am very pleased with how my appointment went yesterday. Everyone was really friendly. They explained everything to me about the procedure and stayed late to assure I was comfortable with the work I had done. Dr Ryan Buckwalter and his assistants were awesome. I highly recommend them for any dental work. Thank you."

    Donnette M.

  • "I was having toothache pain in my lower jaw. I called the next day to make an appointment and was given an appointment time for the very next day. I saw Dr. Ryan, who is knowledgeable, caring and has great people skills with his patients. I made another appointment to come back and have the work done."

    Denise K.

  • “Dr. Buckwalter and his assistant did a wonderful job with our 8 year old today. While they were busy talking teeth, my 3 year old was enjoying his new lip balm and balloon! Finished up with a treat from Starbucks with our gift card. So glad our kiddos don’t fear the dentist. More like they want to keep stopping in."

    Logan D.

  • “Unbelievable experience with Dr. Ryan Buckwalter. Night and Day difference from my last dental experience with another dentist. I no longer fear the dentist!”

    David S.