9 Home Remedies For Sensitive Teeth Pain

Sensitive teeth can make eating and drinking a painful experience. When your teeth are sensitive, certain foods and drinks, and even breathing in cold air, can cause a sharp, sudden pain in your teeth.  

If you have sensitive teeth, you’re not alone. One in eight people experience the condition. While it’s important to see your dentist to determine the cause of your tooth sensitivity, you can try some home remedies in the meantime.

This blog will teach you about home remedies for sensitive teeth pain. Besides, you can find short and clear answers to some of the most common questions regarding the issue.

What Are Home Remedies for Sensitive Teeth Pain?

Here are a few things you can try at home to relieve sensitive teeth pain:

1. Saltwater Rinse

• Why it may help: Saltwater can help reduce inflammation and eliminate bacteria in the mouth.
• How to use: Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water. Swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds and spit it out. Repeat 2–3 times a day.

2. Oil Pulling (Coconut Oil)

• Why it may help: Coconut oil has mild antibacterial properties, which could help keep gums healthy and reduce plaque buildup.
• How to use: Put 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth and swish it around for 15–20 minutes. Spit out the oil (preferably into a tissue and discard it in the trash, as oil can clog drains) and rinse your mouth with water.

3. Garlic Paste or Rub

• Why it may help: Garlic contains allicin, a compound believed to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
• How to use: Crush a clove of garlic to form a paste and mix with a tiny amount of salt. Apply it gently to the sensitive area for a few minutes, then rinse. Be cautious if your gums are already irritated.

4. Clove Oil (Eugenol)

• Why it may help: Cloves contain eugenol, known for its analgesic (pain-relieving) effect.
• How to use: Dilute a drop or two of clove oil in a carrier oil (like coconut or olive oil) before applying it to the sensitive tooth with a cotton swab. Avoid direct, undiluted use, as it can burn or irritate your gums.

5. Desensitizing Toothpaste

• Why it may help: Many over-the-counter toothpastes are formulated with ingredients such as potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride, which can help block pain signals and strengthen enamel.
• How to use: Use regularly in place of your normal toothpaste. It may take a few weeks of consistent use to notice a reduction in sensitivity.

6. Warm Compress

• Why it may help: Sometimes sensitivity is exacerbated by inflammation or pain in surrounding gum tissue. Warmth can help relax the area and reduce discomfort.
• How to use: Soak a clean cloth in warm water, wring out the excess, and hold it against the cheek near the sensitive tooth.

7. Green Tea Rinse

• Why it may help: Green tea has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
• How to use: Brew unsweetened green tea, let it cool slightly, then swish it around your mouth for about 30 seconds. It can help soothe gums and freshen breath.

8. Turmeric

• Why it may help:
  Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. This can be beneficial if your tooth sensitivity is related to inflamed gums or mild oral infections.
• How to use:
  • Turmeric Paste: Mix a small amount of turmeric powder with water or coconut oil to create a paste. Gently apply to the sensitive area or along the gumline and let it sit for about a minute. Rinse thoroughly with water afterward.
  • Turmeric Rinse: Dissolve a small pinch of turmeric in warm water and swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit it out. Rinse with plain water to help reduce staining.
  • Combined Paste (Turmeric + Salt + Mustard Oil): In some traditional Ayurvedic practices, turmeric powder is mixed with a bit of salt and mustard oil into a paste. Gently apply and massage into the gums. This mainly aims to reduce gum inflammation and may indirectly help reduce sensitivity by supporting overall gum health.

Note: Turmeric can stain teeth, fabrics, and toothbrushes. Use sparingly, and rinse well. If you experience any irritation or an allergic reaction, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.

9. Good Oral Hygiene Habits

• Why it matters: Reducing plaque, protecting enamel, and preventing gum recession are key to minimizing tooth sensitivity.
• Tips:
  • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
  • Brush gently in circular motions; avoid harsh, horizontal scrubbing.
  • Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth.
  • Limit sugary or highly acidic foods and beverages (like soda, citrus fruits, or pickles), which can weaken enamel.

Why Are My Teeth Sensitive All Of A Sudden?

Here are 10 common reasons for sudden sensitive teeth pain that many people suffer from;

• Teeth Whitening
• Diet
• Brushing Aggressively
• Gum Problems
• Tooth Decays
• Some Dental Procedures
• Cracked Tooth
• Sinus Problems
• Cold Weather
• Bruxism

In this video, Dr. Nisa Yomralioglu, currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Prosthodontics, explains the causes of tooth sensitivity, such as enamel wear and gum recession, which expose the underlying dentin and its nerve channels. She also provides practical recommendations for managing sensitivity through proper oral care practices and communication with dentists about possible treatments.

1. Teeth Whitening

Overusing certain teeth-bleaching products can lead to sensitivity. While there are advanced methods, such as laser activation of bleaching agents, research titled Vital Laser-Activated Teeth Bleaching and Postoperative Sensitivity: A Systematic Review indicates that it is still not possible to completely avoid postoperative sensitivity.

2. Diet

Acidic drinks and hard foods can easily harm the outer layer of tooth enamel, leading to sensitivity and dental erosion. Recent research published in the Journal of Oral Rehabilitation highlights a significant link between the increased consumption of acidic foods and drinks, particularly soft drinks, and exposure to dentin. This dentin exposure is a potential cause of tooth sensitivity.

3. Brushing Aggressively

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential, but it’s important to be gentle when brushing your teeth. Aggressive brushing can lead to significant enamel erosion, particularly when using regular or hard-bristled toothbrushes. To help prevent tooth sensitivity, opt for a toothbrush with soft bristles.

4. Gum Problems

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 46% of people 30 years old or older show signs of gum disease. Remembering that receding gums are one of the two leading causes of sensitive teeth pain, taking care of any problem with your gums is of great importance.

5. Tooth Decays

Decays can give you one of the biggest pains you might ever have in your life. At the earlier stages, you might have no constant tooth pain but sudden instances of sensitivity, though. Therefore, you should take care of even small cavities as soon as possible. A filling is usually an effective and practical way to avert the problem.

6. Some Dental Procedures

Some dental procedures like recent toothwork or filling can cause discomfort and pain based on sensitivity. The good news is that tooth sensitivity pain after such procedures is usually temporary, but you should still go back to your dentist immediately to discuss an unbearable sensitivity or other complications.

7. Cracked Tooth

A cracked or broken tooth can cause severe sensitivity and pain that lingers. It’s important to visit your dentist as soon as possible for evaluation and treatment. Prompt attention from a dental professional can provide relief from sensitive teeth pain. For more information about crooked teeth, check out What Can You Do for Crooked Teeth.

8. Sinus Problems

Nerve endings of the teeth can be compressed by the inflamed sinus, and it might lead to sensitive teeth pain. Though the swelling of the sinus load grows gradually, the sensitivity might start suddenly after a certain degree.

9. Cold Weather

When the weather is very cold outside and much warmer inside, your teeth might contract and expand as a response to the sudden change in temperature. These sudden changes might result in sudden sensitive teeth pain in the front teeth especially. 
For more info, read our blog about ”How to Avoid Tooth Sensitivity and Ache During Winter”

10. Bruxism

Grinding and clenching the teeth can damage the enamel surface and lead to sensitivity. Although many people sometimes grind or clench their teeth, it gets much more frequent, especially when you are under high stress. 

FAQs 

Here are some frequently asked questions by the patients. 

How To Stop Sensitive Teeth Pain Immediately After Whitening?

Teeth whitening is one of the factors that lead to sensitive teeth pain. Though the pain and discomfort take only a few days in most cases, you can have sensitive teeth pain relief after whitening by following these steps:

• Avoid cold and hot drinks
• Avoid acidic food and drinks
• Continue using a desensitizing toothpaste
• Brush gently
• Use fluoride products
• Use a straw for drinking

Is There Any Sensitive Teeth Pain Medicine?

Yes, there are sensitive teeth pain relief gels, strips, creams, and special kinds of toothpaste.

What Is The Best Toothpaste For Sensitive Teeth Pain?

Many brands and products are on the market, and it is not easy to pick the “best one” as it involves many variables to evaluate. Here is a list of the three popular products for you:

• Hello Oral Care Sensitivity Relief Toothpaste
• Colgate Sensitive Whitening Toothpaste
• Sensodyne Fresh Sensitive Toothpaste

Is It A Good Idea To Apply Baking Soda For Sensitive Teeth?

Yes, it might work for you, especially when the reason for your sensitivity is increased acidic flora in your mouth. If you try a mouthwash for sensitive teeth pain relief using baking soda, you can reduce the acid level in your mouth. 

Can I Get Sealant For Sensitive Teeth?

 Yes, it is one of the most effective ways to get rid of the sensitivity. However, dental sealants should be applied by professionals.

How To Get Rid Of Sensitive Teeth After Eating Lemon? 

You should rinse your mouth soon after eating a lemon. Also, chewing a piece of sugar-free gum can help you decrease the acidic flora in your mouth after eating a lemon.