Dealing with tooth sensitivity can be a nightmare for some people. According to the American Dental Association, around 40 million people in the United States suffer from some degree of sensitivity.
With sensitivity comes pain when eating or drinking overly cold or hot foods and beverages. Although seeing the dentist is critical for this condition, there are some ways you may get relief at home.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
Many people make visits to see dentists for sensitivity issues each year with the hope of finding the source of their discomfort and receiving treatment. Tooth sensitivity could be a result of the following:
- Worn tooth enamel
- Exposed tooth roots
- Gum disease
- Damaged fillings
- Chips or cracks in the tooth
At-Home Remedies for Sensitivity
- Desensitizing toothpaste can help combat tooth sensitivity at home. It contains special compounds that protect the nerve endings. Most of these types of toothpaste contain an ingredient called potassium nitrate. This ingredient blocks the nerves from sending pain signals.
- Hydrogen peroxide is beneficial for helping treat sensitivity that is caused by gum disease. It helps to heal the gums and prevent inflammation. Adding equal parts water and hydrogen peroxide will become an ideal mouth rinse for comfort.
- Saltwater rinses help reduce gum inflammation and prevent infection. Gargling or rinsing with 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt in a warm glass of water twice a day can help relieve sensitivity and irritation.
- Honey mixed with warm water is another natural at-home treatment for easing sensitivity. Honey contains natural antibacterial properties. It helps speed up the healing process and reduces pain. Rinse with this natural concoction twice a day.
- Many people are surprised to learn turmeric can help to ease tooth discomfort. This spice is an excellent anti-inflammatory. Make a paste of ground turmeric and water and massage it around the affected teeth.
When Should You See the Dentist?
If your teeth hurt after temperature changes or when eating sweet or sour foods, you should contact Design Dentistry in Columbia, SC. While some people naturally have more sensitive teeth than others, serious oral health concerns can be the culprit. When the sensitivity seems to increase rapidly, the dentist needs to get involved.
Sometimes sensitive teeth stem from underlying oral health issues that need to be addressed. Once your dentist finds the cause of the sensitivity, they can offer treatments that bring relief. The following are some of the possible treatment options:
Filling Restoration
If your fillings have become worn, replacing them can bring welcome relief from pain. Fillings do not last forever and need to be replaced when damages occur.
Treatment for Gum Disease
When gum disease is the reason for sensitivity, the dentist will need to perform a deep cleaning that involves scaling and planing the roots. Treatment with antibiotics and deep cleanings help to remove the infection and stop the pain.
Root Canal
Root canal therapy helps to save a tooth that has been damaged by cavities or infection. It removes the diseased tissue and seals the tooth to relieve the pain.
Splints for Teeth Grinding
Sometimes, sensitivity is caused by teeth grinding. The grinding action wears away the enamel and causes nerve exposure. Splints can be worn to combat this sleeping problem.
Schedule a Dental Appointment Today
If you are suffering from uncomfortably sensitive teeth, it is important to schedule a dental appointment right away. While waiting to see the dentist, you can try the above at-home remedies that will offer relief.
Your dentist will find the cause of your sensitive teeth and offer treatment options to combat the discomfort. If you are in the Columbia, SC area, contact Design Dentistry to schedule your dental appointment right away to find fast relief.