Oil pulling and sensitive teeth

Oil pulling is unlikely to treat the cause of sensitive teeth, which may need fluoride care or treatment for exposed dentine.

Tooth sensitivity occurs when dentine is exposed and temperature, touch, or sweet substances stimulate the tooth’s nerve through small channels. Receding gums, enamel wear, erosion, a worn filling, decay, or a crack can expose that surface.

Use a soft brush, gentle pressure, fluoride toothpaste, and a non-abrasive routine. Reduce acidic drinks and do not scrub immediately after an acidic exposure; a dentist may recommend a desensitizing toothpaste or apply fluoride to the sensitive area.

Arrange an examination when sensitivity is new, localized, worsening, or present without a clear trigger. Pain on biting, lingering heat pain, a visible hole, swelling, or a broken tooth can indicate a problem needing prompt treatment.

Ask which tooth surface is exposed and whether the cause is gum recession, wear, decay, or a crack. Ask whether desensitizing treatment, a filling, a gum treatment, or pulp care fits the examination findings.