Do you avoid drinking a cold beverage due to sensitive teeth? Having sensitive teeth could mean experiencing sharp and intense pain deep into the tooth. Hot, cold, acidic, or sweet food and drinks can trigger your sensitivity. It’s not a pleasant experience, but it can be treated and prevented with proper care.
Tooth sensitivity is caused by exposed dentin which is a soft inner layer of the tooth. Dentin contains tubules that lead to the nerves inside the teeth. When the tooth enamel wears down or the gum recedes, these nerves get exposed and cause a painful sensation when triggered by cold, hot, or acidic substances. Please visit your dentist to identify the reason for tooth sensitivity and find the causes of sensitive teeth early.
Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity Include But Are Not Limited To:
- Tooth cavities: Your dentist in Scottsdale will examine your teeth, take X-rays, and detect cavities.
- Cracked teeth: Cracked or chipped teeth can cause severe pain, which can be beyond sensitivity.
- Eroded enamel: Consuming acidic food can cause your enamel to erode which in turn can make your teeth sensitive.
- Teeth grinding: Many people grind their teeth unknowingly which can lead to teeth sensitivity. If you grind your teeth while sleeping, you will need a night guard. A correct night guard is very important.
- Gum recession: Brushing too hard, using a hard bristled brush, or brushing too frequently can wear down the tooth enamel and can also lead to gum recession. Receding gum exposes the dentin tubules which cause teeth sensitivity. Aggressive brushing is not the only reason for gum recession.
- Teeth Bleaching: Certain teeth whiteners and toothpaste contain peroxide-based bleaching chemicals which cause teeth sensitivity.
Ways To Prevent Tooth Sensitivity:
- Using toothpaste made for sensitive teeth which usually contain fluorides can help repair tooth enamel. These kinds of toothpaste usually build a protective layer over exposed dentin and prevent sensitivity.
- Avoiding or limiting consumption of acidic food and drinks will help with teeth sensitivity. You can also use straws while drinking acidic beverages to reduce or avoid contact with your teeth.
- Wait one hour after eating before brushing your teeth. Your tooth enamel is more vulnerable due to acids in your food and drinks and is at higher risk of being scrubbed away right after eating.
- Use mouthwash and floss regularly to get rid of any food particles stuck in the teeth.
- Avoid any kind of tooth bleaching be it in-office whitening procedure or at home whitening kits.
- Use a soft toothbrush and make sure to brush gently to prevent enamel wear down.
- If you grind your teeth, make sure to wear a mouth guard at night.
- Lastly schedule regular check-ups with your dentist.
In conclusion, managing tooth sensitivity effectively requires a combination of professional dental care and good oral hygiene practices. It’s essential to identify the underlying causes of sensitivity by consulting with our dentist in Scottsdale AZ , who can provide personalized treatments and recommendations. Adopting daily habits such as using desensitizing toothpaste, limiting acidic foods, and employing gentle brushing techniques can greatly alleviate discomfort. Additionally, preventative measures like wearing a night guard for teeth grinding and regular dental check-ups play a crucial role in maintaining dental health. Remember, sensitive teeth can be managed effectively with the right care—don’t let discomfort keep you from enjoying your favorite foods and drinks.