Tips for Reducing Tooth Sensitivity

Mouth PainIt is amazing how painful and distracting sensitive teeth can be. Not only does this condition cause you sudden discomfort without warning, it also affects your ability to enjoy everyday things like a hot cup of coffee or an ice cream cone. For some, even brushing and flossing can be torturous because of their sensitive teeth. Symptoms of sensitive teeth range from a quick, cold tinge of pain to severe throbbing and stinging.

The sensitivity gets more intense when the protective layers of our teeth, such as enamel or cementum over the root, begin to wear away. This exposes microscopic nerve endings, which sends pain signals to the brain.

Related: Why you should use a soft toothbrush instead of a hard toothbrush.

There are a few things you can do to help avoid or reduce tooth sensitivity including the following:

  • Change Your Toothpaste – Some toothpaste is made with added chemicals that actually make your teeth more sensitive. This is true with tooth whitening toothpaste. You might try using toothpaste that is specifically designed for people with sensitive teeth. Studies show that continued use of these types of toothpaste can help defend nerve endings from exposure.
  • Are You Brushing Too Hard? – When you scrub your teeth too hard, you could actually be damaging the protective layer of enamel on your teeth. This could also be the case if you are using too hard of a toothbrush. If you experience sensitive teeth often, try switching to a softer brush and be gentler when you brush.
  • Get a Checkup for Gingivitis – It could be that your sensitive teeth are a result of gingivitis or gum disease. Our gums typically recede with age, especially if we do not keep up on our dental health. It is a good idea to have your gums and teeth checked for gingivitis and find out what you can do to treat it right away.
  • Avoid Acidic Foods and Drinks – Acidic foods are already dangerous to our dental health, but can also lead to a great deal of pain for those who have sensitive teeth. Avoid citrus fruits, soda, wine, pickles and tomato sauce if you have sensitive teeth.
  • Do You Grind Your Teeth? – Even though enamel is some of the toughest stuff in our bodies, it can break down with time and force. Grinding teeth can absolutely cause enamel to break down and can even expose the dentin in our teeth, which is where the tubes that lead to nerve endings are found. Talk to your dentist about how to stop grinding your teeth. A simple mouth guard could make all of the difference.

I know from talking to my patients just how frustrating sensitive teeth can be. I also know that there are solutions for the problem. You do not have to live the pain. Call my office at 480-951-2800 and set up a consultation with me. We can discuss what method will work best for you.

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