How To Handle Sensitive Teeth

WHAT CAUSES TEETH SENSITIVITY

– Sensitive teeth are typically the result of worn tooth enamel or exposed tooth roots. It can cause sharp temporary pain to certain stimuli, such as hot and cold.

When the protective enamel layer is worn out, tubules in the underlying layer of teeth (dentin) emit signals to the pulp which causes teeth sensitivity.

HOW CAN YOU REDUCE TEETH SENSITIVITY

1. Avoid acidic food and drinks like soda and sourish candies. They can cause teeth erosion and increase bacterial activity which leads to teeth sensitivity. After consuming acidic food or drinks, rinse your mouth with water. It is advisable to wait for half an hour to an hour prior to brushing, the waiting period is for the saliva to balance back the pH.

2. Visit the dentist for a thorough checkup and seek advise on teeth sensitivity and how to prevent and treat them.

3. Wear a mouthguard if you have the habit of grinding your teeth at night. Grinding will cause surface wear on teeth, thus causing sensitivity. Mouthguard serves to protect your teeth from wear while grinding.

4. Use soft bristles toothbrush and brush in a rotational motion so that teeth surface will not be damaged. Often times we see teeth wear on the cervical part of teeth that is close to the gums due to the effect of hard and horizontal brushing, known as abrasion cavities, which can be very sensitive.

5. Receding gums can cause teeth sensitivity because the roots of teeth are exposed. This is an effect of periodontal disease. Seek advise from the dentist to know more about the condition and how to treat it.

6. Fluoride gel also can help to minimize teeth sensitivity. You can get it from your dentist and ask on how to use them.

7. Use anti sensitive toothpaste to reduce teeth sensitivity. There are choices available in the market.