How to Stop Sensitive Teeth Pain Immediately

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Learn how to stop sensitive teeth pain immediately by using sensitivity toothpaste, avoiding triggers, and using desensitising agents. Dental fillings, root canal therapy, and custom-fit tooth guards are long-term solutions.

Many people suffer from sensitive teeth, which is a common and painful condition. Sensitive teeth pain occurs when the nerves in the teeth become exposed as a result of worn enamel or receding gums. When eating or drinking hot or cold foods, as well as brushing or flossing, this can cause sharp pain or discomfort. 

It is critical to address sensitive teeth pain as soon as possible because it can indicate a more serious dental issue, such as tooth decay or gum disease. If left untreated, sensitive teeth can cause further damage and necessitate more extensive and costly dental treatments. Individuals who address sensitive teeth pain can prevent further damage to their teeth and maintain a healthy and comfortable smile.

Common causes of tooth sensitivity

Tooth decay

Tooth decay is caused by bacteria in the mouth producing acid, which erodes the enamel and dentin of the teeth. As a result, cavities can form, and the sensitive nerves in the teeth can be exposed, causing pain and discomfort.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is a gum infection that causes inflammation, bleeding, and receding gums. This can cause pain and sensitivity by exposing the sensitive roots of the teeth.

Worn tooth enamel

The enamel is the hard, protective layer that covers the surface of the teeth. Age, genetics, acidic foods and drinks, and excessive brushing can all cause enamel wear. This can cause pain by exposing the teeth’s sensitive dentin layer.

Exposed tooth roots

Because the roots of the teeth are not protected by enamel, when they are exposed, they can be sensitive to hot and cold temperatures as well as pressure. This can be caused by gum recession or gum disease.

Broken or cracked teeth

A broken or cracked tooth can expose sensitive nerves within the tooth, causing pain and sensitivity. An injury, biting on hard objects, or tooth grinding can all cause this.

Techniques for Immediate Relief

Using sensitivity toothpaste

Compounds in sensitivity toothpastes can help to block the sensation of pain in tooth nerves. These toothpastes are available without a prescription and should be used exactly as instructed.

Avoiding triggers

Foods and drinks that are extremely hot or cold, for example, can cause sensitive teeth pain. Identifying and avoiding pain triggers can help reduce the severity and frequency of pain.

OTC pain relievers

Ibuprofen and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be used to relieve the pain and inflammation caused by sensitive teeth.

Desensitizing agents

To strengthen the enamel and reduce sensitivity, fluoride gel can be applied to the teeth. These gels are typically applied by a dental professional to the teeth, but fluoride can also be found in some desensitising toothpastes.

Clove oil

Clove oil has anaesthetic properties that can numb pain and provide temporary relief. Apply it to the affected area with a cotton swab. It should, however, be used with caution because too much clove oil can harm the gums.

Long-term solutions

Dental fillings

Dental fillings are used to repair cavities caused by tooth decay and to rebuild the affected tooth’s structure. This can aid in the reduction of sensitivity and the prevention of further damage.

Root canal therapy

Root canal therapy involves the removal of infected or damaged nerves from the inside of a tooth. This can alleviate pain and sensitivity while also preserving the affected tooth.

Gum surgery

Gum surgery can be used to treat problems caused by receding gums, such as exposed tooth roots. This can help to reduce sensitivity and improve overall gum health.

Dental crowns or bonding

To cover or protect damaged or exposed roots on teeth, dental crowns or bonding can be used. This can reduce sensitivity while also improving the appearance of the affected tooth.

Custom-fit mouth guards

To address tooth grinding or jaw clenching, custom-fit tooth guards can be used. These guards can help protect the teeth from further damage as well as reduce sensitivity.

Final thoughts on stopping tooth sensitivity immediately

To summarise, sensitive teeth are a painful and frustrating condition that can be caused by a number of factors such as tooth decay, gum disease, worn enamel, exposed tooth roots, and fractured teeth. Using sensitivity toothpaste, avoiding triggers, taking over-the-counter pain relievers and desensitising agents, and applying clove oil to the affected area can all provide immediate relief. However, seeking professional dental care is critical in order to determine the underlying cause and recommend the best long-term treatment, which may include dental fillings, root canal therapy, gum surgery, dental crowns or bonding, and custom-fit tooth guards. 

It is critical to seek professional dental care on a regular basis in order to maintain good oral hygiene and detect any problems as soon as they arise. Maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing on a regular basis, avoiding acidic foods and drinks, and using fluoride-containing products is also essential. Individuals who follow these steps can reduce their risk of developing sensitive teeth while also maintaining a healthy and comfortable smile.

FAQ

How can I get immediate relief from sensitive teeth?

There are several options for getting quick relief from sensitive tooth pain: 
Sensitivity toothpaste contains compounds that can help to block pain sensations in tooth nerves. These toothpastes are available without a prescription and should be used exactly as instructed. 

Avoid triggers: Extremely hot or cold foods and drinks, for example, can cause sensitive teeth pain. Identifying and avoiding pain triggers can help reduce the severity and frequency of pain. 

Ibuprofen and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are over-the-counter pain relievers that can be used to treat the pain and inflammation caused by sensitive teeth. 

Desensitizing agents are used: Fluoride gel can be applied to the teeth to strengthen the enamel and reduce sensitivity. These gels are typically applied by a dental professional to the teeth, but fluoride can also be found in some desensitising toothpastes. 

When applied to the affected area, clove oil contains anaesthetic properties that can help to numb the pain and provide temporary relief. Apply it to the affected area with a cotton swab. It should, however, be used with caution because too much clove oil can harm the gums.

Can sensitive tooth pain go away?

Absolutely. 

Sensitive tooth pain can be relieved, but only if the underlying cause is addressed. If the sensitivity is caused by a temporary issue, such as tooth whitening, it should go away within a few days to a week. If the sensitivity is the result of a more serious issue, such as tooth decay or gum disease, the pain may last until the underlying problem is resolved. 

In some cases, the pain is caused by a chronic condition, such as bruxism (tooth grinding) or acid reflux; in these cases, the pain may come and go, and the individual may need to take steps to manage those conditions. 

Consultation with a dental professional is essential in order to determine the underlying cause of the sensitivity and recommend the appropriate treatment. With proper treatment, pain can be managed and, in some cases, eliminated. 

Furthermore, good oral hygiene, regular dental visits, and avoiding triggers such as acidic foods or excessive consumption of sweetened beverages can help to prevent future episodes of sensitive teeth pain.

Dr Febin Mary George - Editor

With more than 10 years as a dental surgeon, Dr Febin Mary George is passionate about educating consumers around the world to help look after their teeth.

She completed her Bachelor of Surgery at the Century Institute of Dental Science and Research Centre in 2010.

Alongside editing the International Journal of Dental Clinics she has also written for major publications including Thrive Global.