Here are some reasons due to which tooth sensitivity is a common problem; in fact, according to the Journal of American Dental Association, one in eight adults suffer from sensitive teeth.
- Worn tooth enamel due to excessive usage of a hard toothbrush or brushing aggressively.
- Tooth erosion due to the consumption of highly acidic foods and beverages.
- Teeth grinding
- Worn or leaky fillings
- Tooth decay
- Some dental treatments including fillings, crowns, etc.
Tooth sensitivity can be extremely painful and annoying. Here's a list of Foods that may help.
1. Salt water
Salt water is one of the most common solutions to tooth sensitivity or any dental problems as it helps maintain the pH balance of the mouth to create a more alkaline environment in which harmful bacteria cannot survive for long. It is also a natural antiseptic that provides instant relief in the sensitive tooth. All you need to do is to add two teaspoons of salt to warm water and mix well. Rinse your mouth with this solution twice a day in order to reduce sensitivity and pain.(Also read: 5 Teeth Whitening Home Remedies)
Salt water is one of the most common solutions to tooth sensitivity2. Guava leaves
Guava has innumerable health benefits, but not many may know that its leaves too boast of quite a few medicinal properties. It is known to contain flavonoids like quercetin, kaempferol and rutin that have anti-inflammatory properties that help relieve tooth sensitivity and toothache. Just chew a few leaves for 2-3 minutes and spit them before you rinse your mouth. If you do not wish to chew them, place four to five leaves in a pan with a cup of water and bring it to boil. Add a sprinkle of salt and use it as a mouthwash.
(Also read: 8 Wonderful Foods You Must Eat For A Beautiful Smile)
Guava leaves too boast of quite a few medicinal properties3. Garlic
We cannot promise breath improvement, but we can definitely tell you that it has some compounds to offer that are extremely beneficial for oral health. It is known to be an anti-bacterial agent and a natural anesthetic that can relieve pain from tooth sensitivity and other problems. In order to desensitize and soothe pain, you need to make a paste with two to three garlic cloves, two to three drops of water and about half a teaspoon of salt. Apply the paste on the affected tooth and allow it to sit for a few minutes before rinsing with warm salt water.
It is known to be an anti-bacterial agent and a natural anesthetic4. Clove oil
Clove oil contains powerful germicidal properties and also helps numb pain while keeping teeth and gums healthy. Cloves have long been used for their anti-inflammatory, anesthetic and anti-bacterial properties that reduce pain and fight oral infections. The best way to use it is to combine one drop of clove oil with coconut oil or almond oil and apply on the affected tooth. Wash it off with warm water.
Clove oil contains powerful germicidal properties and also helps numb pain 5. Onion
Onion has flavonoids like quercetin, which is known to offer anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe pain. Its anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties also help kill harmful bacteria in the mouth that can lead to oral infection. All you need to do is to cut an onion, in a way the piece fits in your mouth. Place the piece on the affected area and leave it for about five minutes. After taking it out, thoroughly rinse your mouth with salt water that will further help in relieving pain and improving the breath.
Onion has flavonoids like quercetin, which is known to offer anti-inflammatory propertiesEnsure that you use these foods regularly in order to see better results. In case of persistent pain and bleeding, consult a dentist.