Sensitive Teeth

Sharp, sudden discomfort in one or more teeth, shooting down into the nerve endings of the tooth, can be triggered by heat, cold, and sweet or sour food or drink, or even by breathing cold air, sensitive teeth HURT.  Tooth sensitivity occurs when dentin, the underlying layer of your teeth, becomes exposed as a result of receding gum tissue.  The roots, which are not covered by hard enamel, contain thousands of tiny holes that lead to the tooth's nerve center (the pulp). These holes allow the hot, cold, or sweet food - to reach the nerves in your teeth, resulting in the pain you feel.

Multiple factors lead to the development of tooth sensitivity.  Over time, if you brush too hard, or use very hard-bristled toothbrushes, you can wear down the enamel, and cause the dentin to be exposed.  It can also cause the gums to recede, allowing the porous dentin to be exposed.  Periodontal disease can cause gums to recede, and expose the sensitive root area.

Cracked, chipped, or broken teeth may fill with bacteria rich plaque, enters the pulp, and cause pain and inflammation.

Teeth grinding can wear down the enamel on teeth, and expose the dentin.

Teeth whitening products or toothpaste with baking soda or peroxide are major causes of teeth sensitivity.

As we age, our enamel gradually wears away, and results in sensitivity of teeth.  The presence of plaque on the root surfaces causes sensitivity, as does the long term use of acidic mouth washes.  Eating high acid foods and drinks can contribute to teeth sensitivity, and routine dental procedures, like cleaning, can cause temporary sensitivity.

Home Remedies for Sensitive Teeth:

Brushing:

Brush regularly, with desensitizing toothpaste, and a soft toothbrush, and floss properly.  After brushing, before going to bed, use a cotton swab to apply a thin layer of plain, fluoridated toothpaste.  Watch what you eat.  Highly acidic foods gradually dissolve tooth enamel, leading to dentin exposure and sensitive teeth.   Hypericum, which is commonly known as St. John's Wort, is used herbally for depression and mood swings, but is used homeopathically for any nerve injury or pain.

Echinacea:

Echinacea three times a day in a little juice with 1/2 teaspoon of powdered vitamin C acts as a strong herbal antibiotic to kill any infection in her tooth.  Drinking thyme or sage tea, not only eliminates bad breath, but also disinfects the mouth, and acts as an antibiotic, antiviral, and antifungal treatment for the mouth.

Aloe Vera:

Rinsing with aloe vera gel, and applying aloe vera gel to the inflamed areas daily helps ease the inflammation and tooth sensitivity.