Sensitive Teeth

Does it hurt when you drink hot or cold beverages, when you try to enjoy an ice cream cone or even when you brush? If you have sensitive teeth, you’re not alone! Tooth sensitivity can stem from a number of issues and millions of people suffer from varying degrees of tooth sensitivity.

Brushing too hard is one reason you may have sensitive teeth. We know you may just be trying really hard to get your teeth clean, but hard brushing can wear down tooth enamel and expose your teeth’s dental canals that lead to the nerves! In addition to regular dental checkups, there are two things you can do to prevent this. First, use a softer toothbrush with softer bristles. Next, don’t use such force while brushing. Gently hold your toothbrush rather than gripping. If you hold your toothbrush like you would hold a paint brush, you’ll be inclined to brush more gently.

Acidic foods and grinding your teeth are the next two culprits that cause sensitivity. Even though fruits are healthy, acidic fruits and foods can attack the protective layer on your teeth and cause your teeth to be more sensitive. Avoid these types of foods if your teeth become bothersome. Believe it or not, when you grind your teeth you are also damaging the same protective layer that acidic foods attack. Teeth grinding can lead to a number of problems with your teeth, not just sensitivity. Ask your dentist about a mouth guard to prevent grinding for alleviate a number of oral issues.

If you have receding gums you probably have tooth sensitivity. You should actively work with your dentist on a plan to repair your gum line. There are a number of successful gum disease or gingivitis procedures that can help with receding gums.

Teeth whitening, even using whitening products like toothpaste or mouthwash can lead to sensitivity. You’ll have to decide what’s more important, a dazzling smile or pain free teeth. You should be able to find a product that helps whiten without causing negative side effects. There are other reasons for tooth sensitivity, but these are the most common causes. If tooth sensitivity is becoming an increasingly difficult problem for you, talk to your dentist at your next dental checkup.