Tooth sensitivity could occur for various reasons, including damaged or worn down tooth enamel, exposed tooth roots, or cracks and cavities in your teeth.
If you experience sharp and sudden pain in your teeth while consuming hot and cold food and beverages, eating something acidic or sour, or inhaling in cold or hot temperatures, you probably have sensitive teeth. Tooth sensitivity could occur for various reasons, including damaged or worn down tooth enamel, exposed tooth roots, or cracks and cavities in your teeth. While more serious root causes of tooth sensitivity will require professional dental treatment, you can treat this issue at home. Read on to learn how you can prevent and manage your tooth sensitivity!
Do Not Brush Too Hard
Vigorous brushing will increase the risk for tooth sensitivity by causing the gums to drift away from your teeth, exposing your nerves and setting you up for tooth pain at all times. Using a soft-bristled brush, gently brush the teeth twice a day in a circle motion to keep any enamel strong and clean for protection.
Use Desensitizing Toothpaste to Brush
Over-the-counter desensitizing toothpaste contains compounds like potassium nitrate that helps prevent the transmission of sensation from your teeth to the nerves. With regular use, desensitizing toothpaste could help reduce tooth sensitivity. If you are still deciding which brand to use or experience no alleviation after a couple of weeks of use, speak with your dentist as soon as possible.
Skip the Teeth Bleaching
Both in-office whitening procedures and any at-home whitening kits could cause temporary tooth sensitivity. If you have sensitive teeth and are in the market for pearly whites, let your dentist know about this condition. Your dentist might not recommend whitening for you based on the sensitivity, and if you already bleach your teeth, your dentist will advise on you whether or not you should keep bleaching.
Unclench Your Teeth
Excessive teeth grinding, a condition known as bruxism, is able to wear down your enamel, leaving your teeth much more vulnerable to sensitivity and pain. Bruxism often happens as a natural reaction to anxiety or stress. De-stressing lifestyle changes into your daily habits could address the issues. If this fails, your dentist could create a custom mouthguard that you can wear to sleep to help with the issue.
Catonsville Dental Care Can Handle All of Your Oral Care Needs
Catonsville Dental Care offers a wide variety of services when it comes to oral health. We have the experience and understanding to diagnose and treat any problem you have as quickly and painlessly as possible. With four dentists available at our office and a commitment to comfort, safety, and relaxation, you can’t find a better provider for your health. We look forward to helping you keep your smile perfect all year long and talking with you about your needs. To schedule an appointment or consultation, visit us online or give us a call at 410-747-1115. For more tips and tricks, follow us on Facebook, Flickr, Twitter, and YouTube.