How to Deal With Sensitive Teeth

When a person is experiencing oral pain during normal activities like drinking, eating, and daily brushing, a likely cause is tooth sensitivity. Sensitive teeth are often the result of an underlying issue which only your dentist can properly diagnose. Fluoride treatment is a great way to address tooth sensitivity. For information about fluoride treatment, please call at 844.966.2333.

The Key to Managing Sensitive Teeth is Strengthening Your Enamel

The best way to address sensitive teeth is to schedule an appointment to receive professional dental treatment. Dentists have different methods of tackling weakened tooth enamel. Some possible treatments you may receive at the dentist are:

• Have your dentist examine your teeth and gums to ensure you don’t have underlying gum disease, which requires treatment. Maintaining healthy gums protects your tooth integrity, which prevents sensitivity. Gum recession due to underlying gum disease is a possible cause of sensitive teeth. When gum disease (periodontitis) develops, periodontal pockets form that separate your teeth from your gumline. This separation can expose the lower part of teeth and sensitive nerve endings to cold and heat, which causes pain and exacerbates sensitivity.
• Some patients have an underlying issue called bruxism. Bruxism is when a person grinds their teeth, which usually occurs during sleep, so the patient may not even be aware of their tooth grinding. A custom-fitted mouthguard will prevent further damage to your teeth. The outer protective layers of teeth can wear away due to bruxism and be the root cause of your tooth sensitivity. Although there may be options available at the store, they often do not work adequately to address the issue and are ill-fitting. Your dentist has the expertise and tools to make the exact mold of your bite.
• Fluoride coatings and varnishes are a first-line defense against tooth pain and sensitivity. Ask your dentist about the fluoride treatment options that are available to you. Microscopic holes in teeth expose the inner part of your teeth to irritants and extreme temperature changes, which leads to pain. When a dentist applies fluoride varnish to your teeth, it fills in these tiny microscopic holes. Depending on the condition of your teeth, there are other bonding and coating options available to protect enamel and conceal the exposed dentin( bony tissue) that is causing pain.

At-Home Options to Help Address Sensitive Teeth

Many people utilize at-home remedies to successfully manage tooth pain while waiting for an in-office professional treatment appointment. A few tips for dealing with sensitive teeth before and after your dentist appointment include using a toothpaste specially formulated for sensitive teeth, sticking to soft toothbrushes, using saltwater mouthwash, and limiting food and beverages that aggravate sensitive teeth.   Many kinds of toothpaste claiming to whiten and care for your teeth contain abrasive ingredients that wear down tooth enamel with repeated usage. Using toothpaste specifically formulated for sensitive teeth will provide relief from some of your symptoms. Toothpaste for sensitive teeth contains ingredients to temporarily fill in the small gaps in enamel and exposed dentin. With the holes filled, your sensitive nerves are better protected so that fewer painful side effects are likely to occur.   One easy tip to care for sensitive teeth relief is brushing exclusively with soft toothbrushes. Hard bristled toothbrushes can damage enamel, leading to more microscopic gaps and sensitivity. Try a soft-bristled toothbrush, and make sure you are not brushing too hard. By refraining from bearing down on your teeth and gums too hard, you are preventing further damage to your enamel and maintaining the integrity of your smile.   You can make a saltwater rinse quickly by mixing two teaspoons of salt with a cup of warm water. Swishing 2 times per day( morning and bedtime) may help lessen nerve pain from sensitive teeth. Saltwater is known to help balance the pH level of the mouth. Creating a more alkaline environment in the mouth can sometimes reduce pain.   You may begin to notice that some of the food and beverages you consume daily worsen your tooth pain. If possible, you should limit or eliminate these from your diet while trying to get your sensitive teeth under control. Common culprits behind tooth pain and sensitivity are acidic foods such as coffee, sodas, pickled foods, and heavily acidic citrus fruits. Food and drinks that are very hot or cold are often off-limits for individuals with sensitive teeth. Drastic temperature changes feel more painful for an individual with exposed teeth and less natural tooth protection.

Begin Addressing Your Sensitive Teeth at Supreme Dentistry Today

Sensitive teeth are not only painful for you; they can also be indicative of an underlying dental issue that requires prompt treatment. Neglecting a tooth sensitivity issue prolongs your pain and discomfort and opens the door for worsening dental problems in the future. Please set up an appointment with Supreme Dentistry today by calling 844.966.2333.