Home Remedy Tips Straight From Your Dentist

When your mouth feels anything less than perfect, it can be a major, and often painful, distraction in your day. The team at Brookings Dental Arts is committed to treating its patients with care, and providing expert advice. But sometimes home remedies are all you need to bring relief from discomfort.

Canker Sores

When you develop a canker sore every movement of your mouth can hurt. It’s amazing that a sore that will usually heal itself without the help of a dentist can cause so much pain! While you’re waiting for your canker sore to heal, find relief by applying a mixture of half water, half hydrogen peroxide to the sore with a cotton swab. Then apply a small amount of Milk of Magnesia. Repeat up to four times a day. A second home remedy to treat canker sores is to swish a mixture of half Milk of Magnesia, half liquid Benadryl in your mouth for 60 seconds, then spit it out. You can find all these ingredients at your local pharmacy.

Sensitive Teeth

If your teeth are sensitive to pressure, or to hot or cold temperatures, the solution could be as simple as switching toothpastes. Replace your whitening toothpaste with a simple no-frills variety, or purchase a “sensitive teeth” toothpaste. These toothpastes contain chemicals to desensitize teeth and they really work. If the sensitivity continues after trying these home remedies, be sure to talk to your dentist about it.

Jaw Pain

If you’ve developed jaw pain, you could be unconsciously straining your jaw by eating big sandwiches or hard food. Even eating bagels can strain your jaw. Eat only soft foods for five or six days to see if the symptoms disappear, then be more aware of the kinds of foods you choose to eat. If jaw pain persists, be sure to schedule an appointment with your dentist.

Mouth Pain/Swelling

Swelling of soft gum tissue can cause mouth pain. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen, can bring relief to temporary symptoms. But if swelling and pain persist it could be a serious dental issue, and you should call your dentist.

Traumatic Loss of Tooth

A traumatic loss of a tooth due to an accident can be an upsetting ordeal, but don’t panic. Make an appointment to see the dentist as soon as possible. If you find the piece of tooth that broke off, immediately place it in a cup of milk or water. This helps keep the cells alive, and the tooth could potentially be reattached. Don’t leave the tooth exposed to air or attempt to clean it.