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If you are consuming hot or cold food and begin to notice a slight pain in one or more of your teeth, then you may have tooth sensitivity. This is a common condition, and a study published by the American Dental Association showed that 1 in 8 people suffer from it. This condition is caused by a sensitive underlayer of the tooth called dentin becoming exposed.
If you notice that you have sensitive teeth, then the first step is to speak with a trained dentist like Dr. Richard Grubb. From this meeting, your dental professional with provide a proper solution for your issue. While you wait for your scheduled appointment, there are some natural remedies that could help lessen discomfort.
Try Using A Sensitivity Toothpaste
There are many different kinds of toothpaste available that have been created to help alleviated the symptoms of sensitive teeth. Using these toothpastes could see you feeling much more comfortable after only a few uses. To find the most success with this form of toothpaste you will need to be sure to use it consistently and with a soft-bristled brush.
Patients are often advised to try switching to a sensitivity toothpaste before trying any other treatment options. If you have tried this method and are not seeing results, seeking help from a dentist should be your next step.
Only Brush With A Soft-Bristled Toothbrush
Using the right toothbrush can play a large part in solving your sensitivity problems. Many dentists suggest using soft-bristled toothbrushes to patients with sensitive teeth because this type of brush is easier on the teeth. There is also the fact that hard-bristled toothbrushes are very rough on the mouth and can erode the gums and damage the enamel on your teeth.
Some patients believe that hard bristled brushes are better at removing bacteria from the teeth. But when you brush your teeth too roughly, you can damage the structures of your mouth. Unless recommended by a dental professional, there is no reason to choose a hard-bristled brush over a soft-bristled one.
Stay Away From Acidic Foods
According to the Academy of General Dentistry, acidic foods and beverages are some of the biggest reasons why people have sensitive teeth. The reason for this is that these types of foods can erode the enamel away from your teeth, exposing the weaker under layers of a tooth.
Consuming more acidic foods and drinks can also be responsible for discolored teeth, and will even expose the dentin of your teeth. Dentin is the second layer of a tooth, sitting just below the enamel. This layer of the tooth is connected to nerve endings that can cause sensitivity.
Fortunately, acidic foods are unlikely to cause you any problems as long as you consume them in moderation. It’s also wise to brush your teeth 30 minutes after consuming acidic substances. The reason for the 30-minute wait is that acidic foods weaken your teeth to the point where brushing right after consuming these foods and beverages can actually damage your teeth.
Use A Mouth Guard
Both teeth clenching and teeth grinding can damage your teeth to the point where you will experience sensitivity. Teeth clenching occurs when a person tightens their jaw, applying harsh force. Teeth grinding occurs when your upper and lower teeth repeatedly rub against each other. Both of these conditions typically occur when you are asleep and may only be noticeable by jaw and tooth pain experienced the next day.
If you are suffering from the symptoms associated with these issues, then you will want to take steps to safeguard your teeth. For these conditions, using a mouth guard is recommended. This tool works to reduce the amount of pressure your teeth experience from grinding and clenching, keeping your teeth safe throughout the night.
Sensitivity Mouthwash
Just like toothpaste, there are also mouthwashes that have been made specifically to help with sensitivity. Using special active ingredients, these mouthwashes can provide relief to patients experiencing tooth pain.
Brands like Sensodyne and Listerine have been made using optimized-fluoride formulations that will work to strengthen the enamel of the patient’s teeth while protecting against gum recession. By using these mouthwashes together with a sensitivity toothpaste, you can experience relief from your symptoms quicker.
If you experience tooth or gum sensitivity even after using sensitivity mouthwash for a period of time, contact your dentist for more treatment options.
Take Care Of Your Teeth And Gums
One last tip: be sure you are properly caring for your teeth. This means sticking to a proper dental hygiene routine, complete with regular brushing and flossing. Failing to care for your teeth allows dangerous conditions like tooth decay and gum disease to take hold, both of which can lead to gum recession.
Your gums are responsible for defending the sensitive lower layers of your teeth, including your tooth roots. Should these structures become exposed, pain and sensitivity will result. If you have any questions or concerns about the health of your gums, speak with Dr. Richard Grubb as soon as possible.
Contact Us For The Relief You Need
Tooth sensitivity can be a great inconvenience, and it’s important that you find the relief you need. Our staff is always available to assist patients who are concerned about their oral health. If you have any questions in regards to tooth sensitivity or any other aspect of your oral health, contact our office and schedule a consultation with Dr. Richard Grubb today.