The Agony!
If biting into something hot leaves you wincing in pain and eating something cold brings you to your knees, begging for mercy, then you have sensitive teeth. Eating is a basic human need and something that most people enjoy doing, but sensitive teeth have left you feeling defeated. Do you have to resign yourself to a diet of soft, flavorless food served at room temperature? No!
You do not have to sacrifice your sophisticated palette to the demands of your sensitive teeth!.
What Causes Sensitive Teeth?
There are many different reasons teeth become sensitive. Maybe you hurt their fillings. Get it?! Sensitivity is often caused by the exposure of a tooth’s roots. Sometimes, if they have been brushed with too much pressure or a toothbrush with hard bristles, gums begin to recede away from the teeth. The result is less insulating of the root, where the nerves are left susceptible to temperature changes. Gingivitis also causes the gums to recede away from the tooth. Other causes could be:
- Cavities
- Other damage (cracks, etc.)
- Whitening procedures/chemicals
What Can Be Done?
It is pretty easy to identify sensitive teeth, but a little harder to know what to do about it! Luckily, sensitivity can usually be dealt with in a few simple ways.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Brush and floss daily, maintaining good oral hygiene.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- There are many different toothpastes designed for sensitive teeth; find one that works for you and use that exclusively.
- Incorporate fluoride, which helps strengthen tooth enamel.
If you find that your sensitivity is not responding to these at-home practices, consult your dentist. There might be underlying reasons for your sensitivity that only a dentist can diagnose. If appropriate for your situation, a dentist can also perform more professional procedures to address your sensitivity, such as bonding or gum grafting.
In most cases, you can treat your tooth sensitivity at home with over-the-counter products. If you have questions, give us a call. And put ice-cream back on your grocery list because you are not going to be controlled by your teeth anymore!