Do you suffer from tooth sensitivity? Hot or cold temperatures, sweet or sour foods and drinks, and deep cavities or fillings often trigger this problem. Tooth sensitivity affects numerous people, with an estimated 45 million Americans dealing with this frustrating problem! At Old Greenwich Dental Center, we want to help you identify the root cause of your sensitive teeth and help you improve your dental comfort today.
Sensitive Teeth – Why Does This Happen?
Sensitive teeth normally occur when the enamel covering your tooth wears away, exposing your tooth’s dentin layer. This dentin layer is very porous, and it consists of tubes that run to your nerve center. When these tubes are exposed due to worn enamel, they react to changes in temperature and different foods and cause you discomfort.
How to Avoid Getting Sensitive Teeth
- The most common cause of worn tooth enamel is over-brushing. If you brush your teeth vigorously and use a toothbrush with tough bristles, you will soon brush away your gum line. As your gum line recedes, it exposes porous root surfaces, which may cause some of your teeth to become extremely sensitive. Switch to a softer toothbrush and brush in gentle circles to avoid this type of problem.
- Acidic foods can wear away your tooth enamel, as well. Common culprits include soft drinks, fruit drinks, wine, coffee, sour citrus fruits, and candy. If you like to indulge in foods or drinks like these, then rinse your mouth with water right afterward to dilute the acid.
- Abrasive toothpastes or brushing four or more times a day can also lead to enamel loss, especially if you brush directly after meals. Wait for at least one hour to brush teeth after you’ve had acidic foods or drinks. Acid softens your tooth enamel and makes it more prone to erosion during brushing.
- Teeth whitening products can irritate the tooth nerve. This irritation or inflammation causes symptoms such as cold sensitivity and a tingling sensation and will improve over time. Avoid over-the-counter teeth whitening products and have your whitening done by a dental professional. This way, your dentist can confirm that teeth whitening won’t cause dangerous erosion to your teeth and can also make sure that the level of peroxide in your whitener is safe.
- If you grind your teeth during the day or while asleep, that can also be a contributing factor. Your Old Greenwich, CT, dentist recommends that you wear a mouth guard at night if you grind your teeth. You can get a custom-fitted night guard from your dental health provider in Fairfield County, CT.
What If You Already Have Sensitive Teeth?
No matter what had caused your problem with tooth sensitivity, a good daily dental routine is your best bet to reducing your discomfort. Purchase over-the-counter toothpastes for sensitive teeth, such as Sensodyne and Colgate’s Sensitive Pro-Relief. These types of toothpaste may help treat the condition.
If you find that you aren’t experiencing relief from special toothpastes, more invasive treatments provided by a dental care professional can help. In this case, speak with your Old Greenwich, CT, dentist to learn about additional options that can help you. If you don’t already have a dentist, consider reaching out to Old Greenwich Dental Center to take advantage of our complimentary Old Greenwich exam and consultation.
This information is not meant as medical advice. It is provided solely for education. Old Greenwich Dental Center would be pleased to discuss your unique circumstances and needs as they relate to these topics.
