Why Do I Have Sensitive Teeth?
Are your
teeth tender? Do you pass on icy cold drinks or hot beverages knowing that they
will make your teeth hurt? And sometimes, not just hot or cold drinks but few
other things can also aggravate the pain such as sweet and sour foods or even
cold breeze. If this is so, it is high time to talk to your dentist to track
down the reason of this painful condition. This condition is called tooth
sensitivity. Tooth
sensitivity is common name of dentin hypersensitivity or root sensitivity. When
the hard enamel of teeth is worn down or gums have receded, exposing the tiny
tube surfaces located in the dentin, pain can be caused in teeth by anything and
they even affect your eating and drinking habits.
Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
But what
causes sensitive teeth? Certainly, only a certified
dentist can identify the underlying dental problems and
recommend a treatment. However, we can list down few common dental issues that
can cause tooth sensitivity.
- Worn tooth enamel from brushing hard toothbrush or brushing aggressively.
- Erosion of tooth enamel due to highly acidic foods and beverages.
- Tooth decay and broken teeth that expose the dentin of your teeth.
- Gum recession that expose your teeth roots.
- Bruxism or teeth grinding.
Preliminary Dental Treatment
Talking to
your dentist is the first and foremost important step in finding relief from
your problem. You can also discuss things with him that normally make you feel
better such as avoiding certain food or warm compresses.
After your
dentist determines the reason for your sensitivity, he can better treat the
underlying cause. Treatment can be as simple as scaling your teeth, fixing a
cavity or replacing a worn filling. Yes, this is true that a regular scaling
can help you overcome several dental issues including bleeding, swollen gums
and teeth sensitivity. However, most of the people avoid it considering it a
not-so-essential treatment.
Moreover, if
tooth sensitivity has originated due to gum
issues, or exposed root surfaces – dentist may suggest a gum graft that he will
conduct to protect root surface and support of the tooth.
Understanding
the seriousness of tooth sensitivity problem, a dentist can also recommend few
other treatments such as:
- · Toothpastes for sensitive teeth
- Fluoride toothpaste
- Sealants
- Desensitizing toothpastes
- · Fillings that cover exposed roots
- Fluoride trays
1. Establish good eating habits:
ReplyDeleteAvoid the consumption of acidic foods and drinks that can wear out the enamel of your teeth: citrus juices, wine, dressings with vinegars, soft drinks ...
2. Correct your bad habits:
Avoid the use of wooden sticks , use your teeth as if they were tools (biting or tearing a container to open it), smoking, drinking excessively, chewing with excessive force during meals, etc.
3. Follow a thorough hygiene routine:
In addition to regular brushing,New York Kids Dentist suggest, use ofdental floss , as it will help prevent gum problems and prevent retraction
Use toothpaste and rinse specific for sensitive teeth
Do not brush aggressively
Use a soft bristle toothbrush , special for tooth sensitivity
Use dental products with fluoride - paste or mouth rinses - to reinforce the enamel
4. Go to your dentist:
It is very likely that you can only determine the cause of tooth sensitivity - and find its solution - by going to it.
Therefore, unless you are very clear that the source of the discomfort is completely temporary - because you just put some braces, for example - it is best to visit your dental clinic.