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Sensitive Teeth: Causes, Treatments, and Relief for Tooth Pain

toothache

Does eating or drinking something too hot or cold cause your teeth to hurt? Tooth sensitivity could be a sign of a more serious dental issue. Some experts estimate that half of adults experience some form of tooth sensitivity.

If this includes you, you’re not alone, but you also shouldn’t have to suffer in silence. Finding a provider of comprehensive dental care in Cincinnati can help you get relief.

Causes of Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity has numerous possible causes. You might have worn your enamel down by brushing too hard or used a toothbrush that wasn’t soft enough. Other factors include

  • Receding gums that expose root surfaces
  • Cavities or tooth decay
  • Worn or loose fillings exposing the dentin, the layer under the enamel
  • Tooth erosion due to highly acidic foods or beverages
  • Grinding your teeth at night

Some dental treatments, such as teeth whitening, dental crowns, or filling replacements, can cause pain. This sensitivity is usually temporary but natural and common.

When to See Your Family Dentist

If you have persistent tooth sensitivity, your first step is to visit your nearby family dentist for a diagnosis. Describe your symptoms, when they first started, and if there is anything you’ve found that brings relief. Based on your condition and the underlying causes, treatment could be as simple as a new filling or a crown. Your dentist may refer you to a periodontist for a gum graft if it’s more serious.

Natural Home Remedies for Temporary Treatment

While you’re waiting for your dental appointment, you can try one or more of these at-home remedies for temporary relief:

  • Remove harmful bacteria and soothe your teeth and gums by swishing with water and a tablespoon of coconut oil or salt. Swish for up to two minutes, then spit; don’t swallow.
  • Try a homemade toothpaste of peppermint, cloves, or cinnamon oils.
  • Apply a paste made from raw garlic. Crush a garlic clove and mix in a pinch of salt. You can also use garlic powder if you don’t have fresh cloves.
  • Chew fresh guava leaves or create a mouthwash with boiled guava.

Get to the Root of Your Tooth Sensitivity

Remember that household remedies are temporary and aren’t substitutes for professional dental care near you. If your tooth pain doesn’t go away on its own, contact your family practitioner for restorative care at Beckham Square Family Dental. Ignoring the problem could result in a life-threatening condition requiring more invasive treatment.

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What Happens When You Need a Cincinnati Broken Tooth Extraction

Of course you want to keep your teeth for a lifetime. Unfortunately, life sometimes gets in the way. Sometimes dental issues get so bad your Cincinnati dentist will recommend extracting a broken tooth for the sake of your health. If the tooth is visible above the gum line, the dentist can do a simple extraction with forceps. If it’s a more volatile tooth, your dentist may need to remove gum tissue and remove the tooth surgically. It will require stitches to close the site and allow proper healing. You’ll probably need prescribed pain medication as you heal. For two hours following the procedure, avoid any unnecessary talking, eating or drinking. You also shouldn’t brush or rinse your teeth for 12 hours. This is actually one of the few times your dentist will tell you not to brush your teeth!

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