Sensitive teeth can make life very uncomfortable. You are not able to enjoy your favorite foods and drinks, you have to be careful when you put anything in your mouth and sometimes even a breeze that hits your teeth at just the right angle can cause searing pain for several seconds or longer.
The good news is, there are some things you can do to help reduce tooth sensitivity and avoid the pain. Here are just a few ideas:
- Use Sensitive Teeth Toothpaste
Take a closer the look the next time you’re at the store for toothpaste and you will see that there are several brands designed specifically for people with sensitive teeth. Many of these products contain potassium nitrate, an active ingredient designed to block the small tubules in the dentin of the teeth. These types of toothpastes do not always work for everyone, but they are probably the best place to start if you have sensitive teeth.
- A Softer Toothbrush
People who have sensitive teeth should be using a soft toothbrush. Medium toothbrushes and above may be contributing to the problem. It is also important to back off a bit if you are brushing too hard. Hard brushing will wear down the enamel on your teeth faster and can lead to increased sensitivity. Making a simple change to your brushing habits and using a softer brush can definitely help to reduce sensitivity.
Related: How Often Should You Replace Your Toothbrush?
- Paint Barriers
If you have tried different methods and ideas to reduce your sensitivity without much luck, you might consider talking to your dentist about painted-on barriers. Your dentist can apply desensitizing agents like fluoride varnish or plastic resins to the sensitive areas of your teeth. Depending on what type of material is used, these barriers will eventually wear off over time. However, they can definitely help to deter the pain.
- Have Your Gums Checked
Often, the pain a person feels when experiencing sensitive teeth is actually in the gums. Gum recession caused by gum disease can wear away the cementum and expose the tooth. Working with a dentist, you can rebuild or restore your receding gums and reduce tooth sensitivity.
You do not have to live with sensitive teeth. Call Smile Concepts and let us go over options with you that can make a difference. We can be reached at 480-951-2800.
