6 Home remedies for sensitive teeth

Medically reviewed by
Dr. Vinita Tekchandani, Masters degree in Oral & Maxillofacial Pathology
Maharashtra Dental Council Registration No. (A-21799 MSDC)

Date : 19 June 2024

Introduction:

Do you flinch every time you take a sip of your morning coffee or enjoy a scoop of your favourite ice cream? If you’re nodding yes, you’re likely among the millions of people who suffer from sensitive teeth. Tooth sensitivity can make everyday activities like eating and brushing your teeth uncomfortable. While it’s essential to consult with your dentist to rule out any underlying issues, several home remedies can help alleviate the discomfort. In this blog post, we’ll explore the best home remedies for sensitive teeth, ensuring you can enjoy your favourite foods again without the pain.

What Causes Sensitive Teeth?

Tooth sensitivity happens when dentin, the softer layer under your enamel, becomes exposed. Dentin contains tiny channels that lead to the tooth’s nerve, so heat, cold, sweetness or acid can reach the nerve and cause a sharp, short pain.

The most common causes are:

• Worn enamel from acidic food and drinks (citrus, soda, vinegar) or hard brushing
• Gum recession, which exposes the root surface
• Tooth decay or a cracked tooth
• Teeth whitening or recent dental work, which can cause temporary sensitivity
• Teeth grinding (bruxism), which wears enamel down over time
• Acid reflux, which bathes the teeth in stomach acid

Sensitivity can affect one tooth or several, and it can range from mild discomfort to sharp pain. Knowing the cause is the first step to choosing the right fix.

6 Home Remedies for Sensitive Teeth 

1. Desensitising Toothpaste

This is the most effective home option, and it is backed by far more evidence than the others. Desensitising toothpastes work in one of two ways. Ingredients like potassium nitrate calm the nerve so it reacts less to triggers. Ingredients like stannous fluoride, arginine or calcium phosphate help block the open dentin channels.

How to use it: Brush gently twice a day with a soft-bristled brush. For extra benefit, dab a small amount directly on the sensitive area before bed and do not rinse it off straight away. Most people notice a difference after 2 to 4 weeks of consistent use, so give it time.

2. Saltwater Rinse

Salt water is a simple way to keep the mouth clean and calm irritated gums, which can ease sensitivity that comes from inflammation.

How to use it: Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water. Swish for 30 to 60 seconds, then spit it out. Repeat once or twice a day.

Caution: Do not swallow it, and do not use it more than twice a day, as too much salt can irritate the mouth.

3. Diluted Clove Oil

Clove oil contains eugenol, a compound that has been used in dentistry for its numbing and anti-inflammatory effect. It can give quick, temporary relief from a sensitive spot.

How to use it: Mix 2 to 3 drops of clove oil into a teaspoon of a carrier oil such as coconut oil. Dab a little onto a cotton ball and hold it against the sensitive area for a short time, avoiding the gums as much as you can.

Caution: Never apply clove oil undiluted. It can burn the gums and soft tissue. Use it only occasionally and for a short time, and do not swallow it. It is not suitable for young children, so check with your dentist first if you are pregnant.

4. Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera has soothing, anti-inflammatory properties. It will not fix the sensitive tooth itself, but it can calm irritated or receding gums that contribute to the problem.

How to use it: Use fresh gel from the plant, or buy 100% pure aloe vera gel with no added sugar, colours or flavours. Massage a small amount onto your gums with a clean finger or cotton swab, leave it for a few minutes, then rinse with water.

Caution: Avoid products with added sweeteners, which feed oral bacteria. Stop if you notice any allergic reaction.

5. Green Tea Rinse

Green tea contains catechins, which are antioxidants, along with a small amount of natural fluoride. Research suggests these may help reduce plaque and bacteria, which supports healthier gums and enamel.

How to use it: Brew a cup of unsweetened green tea, let it cool completely, and use it as a mouth rinse for 30 seconds once a day. You can also simply drink it between meals.

Caution: Evidence for treating sensitivity directly is limited, so think of this as a supportive habit. Keep it unsweetened, and rinse with plain water afterwards if you are prone to tea stains.

6. Coconut Oil Pulling

Oil pulling is a traditional Ayurvedic practice. Studies suggest it may reduce plaque and the bacteria that cause gum inflammation, which may support oral health overall.

How to use it: Swish one tablespoon of coconut oil gently around your mouth for 10 to 15 minutes, then spit it into a trash bin (not the sink, as it can clog pipes). Rinse your mouth with water and brush as normal.

Caution: Evidence that it reduces sensitivity directly is limited. Never swallow the oil, and never use it as a replacement for brushing and flossing.

What to Avoid

Small habits can make sensitivity worse. Try to avoid:

• Hard brushing or a hard-bristled brush. Use a soft brush and gentle circular motions.
• Brushing straight after acidic food or drink. Acid softens enamel, so wait about 30 minutes. Rinse with water in the meantime.
• Frequent acidic drinks such as soda, citrus juices and sports drinks. Use a straw to reduce contact with your teeth.
• DIY scrubs with lemon, baking soda or charcoal, which can wear enamel down further.
• Over-the-counter whitening products while your teeth are sensitive. Read our guide on whether teeth whitening is safe for sensitive teeth.
• Very hot or very cold food during a flare-up.
• Smoking and tobacco, which contribute to gum disease and gum recession.
• Grinding your teeth. If you wake with a sore jaw, ask your dentist about a night guard.

When to See a Dentist

Home remedies are for mild, short-term sensitivity. Book an appointment if:

• The pain lasts more than two weeks despite good care
• Pain wakes you at night or comes on without any trigger
• Only one tooth is sensitive, which can point to a crack, cavity or failing filling
• You see swelling, a bump on the gum or a bad taste
• It hurts to bite or chew
• Sensitivity started after a recent filling or dental work and has not settled

Conclusion:

Tooth sensitivity doesn’t have to dictate what you eat or drink. By incorporating these home remedies into your daily routine, you can find relief from the discomfort of sensitive teeth. Remember, while these remedies can be effective, they are not a substitute for professional dental care. If your sensitivity persists or worsens, it’s important to consult with your dentist to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. With the right care and attention, you can enjoy a happier, healthier smile.