“Does saltwater help sensitive teeth?”

Helps gum healing for sure, cloves may help with sensitive teeth though.

Salt water is great to rinse your mouth and tissues. Use 1/2 tsp. Salt in an 8oz. glass of warm water. Salt amounts greater than 1/2 tsp will irritate your mouth tissues surrounding your teeth, tongue, etc. Hot water with burn your tissues surrounding teeth, tongue, and gum tissue.

Thank for your interesting question. I have never seen a study directed to that question. My dental knowledge tells me that saltwater is unlikely to have any effect either way. Over the years, my patients have had success reducing sensitivity using stannous fluoride gel 3-4 times a day for a few weeks. Then tapering it off.

Stannous fluoride gel was developed to reduce decay in patients with greatly reduced saliva. It was found to also be effective in reducing sensitivity, and has been used for that purpose as well. It also reduces the ability of bacteria to stick to the teeth and causes a decrease in dental plaque and can decrease gingivitis. Stannous fluoride gel is discussed in greater detail in the book: GROWING A HEALTHY CHILD, SECRETS FROM A WISE OLD DOC. You would find many subjects in the book helpful at your age. It is available online. I am glad you are interested in your dental health.

Saltwater rinses are great for helping with sore gums. They will not help with true toothaches from decay or sensitivity due to recession.