Say Goodbye to Tooth Sensitivity

It is normal to experience some sensitivity to cold when eating frozen food. However, if you have a particular tooth or an area of your mouth that makes you go “Ouch!” then it might be time to talk with a dentist. Pay attention to the times when you eat something cold, hot, sweet, or acidic to see how your teeth respond, because these are the factors that might trigger tooth sensitivity. If your teeth are sensitive, then scheduling an appointment with a dental professional will help to stop teeth sensitivity for good.

Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity

Here are a few common causes of oral sensitivity, as well as treatments that are available to eliminate the sensitivity and make you more comfortable throughout the day:

• Eating Acidic Foods: The acid in fruit, juices and other acidic foods can weaken your tooth protective coating.  It’s important to rinse with water or use xylitol containing chewing gum after eating, to reduce the effects of acid on your teeth.
• Brushing Too Hard: An important thing to remember is that it’s not how hard you brush, but how long your brush your teeth that matters. Make sure you are using soft or electric toothbrush and gently brush twice a day. If you’re not sure if your toothbrush bristles are too hard, ask your dentist.
• Teeth Grinding: This condition can cause cold, chewing, and sweets sensitivity. The most common and effective solution for teeth grinding is a fitted mouth guard appliance that you wear at night while you sleep. Custom guards come in a number of different types and designs, so you can ask your dentist to help you find the most comfortable treatment.
• Gum Disease: Gum disease can lead to gum loss, which might cause the root structure of the tooth to be exposed. Roots are more responsive to the environment, and therefore are more sensitive. For good dental health, gum disease prevention and treatment is advised. Make sure you keep current with your dental cleanings and brush & floss regularly.  Also, your dentist can apply a sealing liquid on the exposed root surface to prevent further sensitivity. If the gum disease is advanced, your dentist will refer you to a periodontist (gum specialist).
• Filling Deterioration: It’s important to have a dental check-up at least every 6 months so your dentist can replace any fillings that are failing.
• Teeth Whitening Products: Some whitening toothpastes are abrasive and can cause stripping of tooth protective coating. If your teeth are sensitive, switch to a toothpaste for sensitive teeth or consult with your dentist on the kind of toothpaste you should be using.  Also, some people are more sensitive to the chemicals found in dental bleaching gels. There are different teeth whitening products you might consider, so ask your dentist to help you select the one that work well and cause the least amount of teeth sensitivity.

Treatments to Reduce Tooth Sensitivity

While anti-sensitivity toothpastes, such as Sensodyne Pro-Enamel, could help with most sensitivity, there are other treatments and products available.  The main thing to remember is that you don’t have to put up with the discomfort and pain. Teeth sensitivity is not only treatable, but it could be a symptom of a more serious dental problem, so don’t delay visiting your dentist.

If you have sensitive teeth, then the best thing that you can do is schedule a consultation with your dentist. Contact our office today for more information about the treatments that are best for your situation.