Tooth sensitivity is a real pain – literally and figuratively. It can rob you of the pleasure of your morning coffee, ice cream or even brushing your teeth. If you are one of the millions who suffer from sensitive teeth, you understand first-hand how annoying it can be. The good news is that tooth sensitivity can be prevented and relieved with the efforts of family dentistry reno. In this article, you will be given an in-depth, humanized, and informative guide to combating tooth sensitivity.
Tooth Sensitivity Explained
Tooth sensitivity (also called dentin or dentine hypersensitivity) happens when the enamel or cementum on your teeth is too thin or has been lost and the inner part of your tooth is exposed. The inner portion of your tooth, where the nerves are located, is very porous and sensitive to any extremes in temperature. The outside protective enamel has worn away leaving exposed dentin.
Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
Enamel Erosion:
Your enamel gets eroded with time due to the consumption of acidic foods and drinks, brushing your teeth aggressively, or acid reflux.
Receding gums:
If gum disease or improper at-home oral care has caused the gums to recede, tooth roots, which aren’t meant to be exposed, become overly sensitive.
Tooth Decay and Tooth Damage
Cavities, cracked or chipped teeth, and worn fillings can expose dentin.
Bruxism (teeth grinding):
Grinding teeth can wear down the enamel over time, causing increased sensitivity.
Dental Work:
Following dentist procedures like cleaning, filling, or whitening your teeth may be sensitive for a while.
Ways to Stop Sensitive Teeth
Brush with Fluoride Toothpaste
Make sure you are using fluoride toothpaste too as the added benefits of strengthening enamel and fighting cavities. You can also get special toothpaste for sensitive teeth that will also help relief and protection.
Use a Mouthguard:
A custom-fitted mouthguard can intercede between your top and bottom rows of teeth if you are prone to grinding in your sleep to save your enamel from unnecessary wear. See your dentist about a mouth guard you can use at night.
Treat Gum Disease:
Seek treatment from your dentist– This is of utmost importance so that if you have gum disease, a dental professional can help treat it. With dentist-scheduled cleanings, along with scaling or root planing that your dentist may also provide if necessary to manage and treat gum disease, not only can you keep gum recession and symptoms of sensitive teeth under control but prevent it from occurring even after treatment.
Consider Dental Sealants:
Dental sealants are a thin protective coating placed on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. They can also protect against decay and sensitivity by encasing the exposed dentin.
Use Desensitizing Products:
Over-the-counter desensitizing toothpaste and mouth rinses may help block pain signals traveling between the tooth surface and the nerve. Use these treatments at least once weekly for the maximum benefits.
Avoid Whitening Products:
Whitening toothpaste and treatments may make your sensitivity worse. For those of you who are prone to sensitivity, consider more gentle whitening solutions or consult with your dentist for professional recommendations.
Stay Hydrated:
When you are dehydrated, there is not enough production of saliva hence your teeth are left susceptible because the saliva acts as a protective coat against acid which causes decay and erosion of teeth.
When to See a Dentist
But if tooth sensitivity continues and does not stop after you attempt treating it, you will be required to visit a dentist. Ongoing sensitivity might indicate a more serious underlying problem like a cavity, cracked tooth, or gum disease; you should see your dentist for professional care.
Tooth sensitivity is so widespread that it almost seems normal, but no one said you must go on living if your teeth hurt. You can achieve a pain-free and normal foods and drinks life by knowing what causes sensitivity and doing something to prevent it as well as manage it. Do not forget that proper oral hygiene, avoiding certain foods and drinks, adequate content and methods for teeth cleaning at home, preventive measures, and regular check-ups can reduce sensitive teeth to a minimum.