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Six Dental Problems You Can Fix Yourself

1.- Sensitive Teeth

Causes:Exposed nerve roots, often from receding gums

Treatment: Lay off the whitening, tartar-control, and baking-soda toothpastes—they’re abrasive and can contain phosphates, which make teeth sensitive. Don’t brush too hard, which can lead to other dental problems, such as recessed gums, says Sherri Worth, D.D.S., a celebrity cosmetic dentist. If pain persists, visit your dentist for a prescription fluoride treatment to toughen up your choppers.

2.- Lost Tooth

Causes: Physical trauma

Treatment: Rinse it off and push it back in right away, then bite down gently on a soft cloth or moistened tea bag to hold it in place. Knocking out a tooth tears the periodontal ligaments, but some might still cling to the tooth. If reconnected early enough, they can reattach to the gums.

The tooth will feel strong in a few days and could be good as new in a month or two, says Dr. Worth. Want to make sure? See a dentist.

3.- Burned Palate

Causes: Hot food

Treatment: You might not think this can cause dental problems, but burning the roof of your mouth softens the tissue, making it more prone to infection, says Pia Lieb, D.D.S., a cosmetic dentist in New York City. She recommends using Kenalog in Orabase, a corticosteroid paste that creates a protective coating on the burn and speeds healing.

4.- Burned Tongue

Causes: Hot drinks

Treatment: Rinse your mouth with a solution of 1 teaspoon of salt and a cup of warm water. “It’s actually very soothing,” says Dr. Worth. The salt can draw infection to the surface of the tissue, where the body eliminates it, and salt helps neutralize the acidic environment that fosters bacteria.

5.- Jaw Soreness

Cause: Possibly temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMD, which can lead to splitting headaches marked by pain radiating down the front of your ears to your jaw. The improper alignment of your jaw leads to unconscious grinding of the teeth, often at night.

Treatment: “Your muscles are looking to find comfort, so you move your jaw around constantly,” Dr. Lieb says. Try sleeping on your side or back with a supportive pillow, instead of facedown.

6.- Canker Sore

Causes: There are numerous possible causes—but Doritos, salsa, and other sharp and spicy foods can further irritate the sore. Avoid mixing them.

(08/28/2023)
by Romak

More Information: https://www.romak.co.uk/7-dental-problems-you-can-fix-yourself/

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