Sensitive Teeth: 5 Tips For Managing Sensitivity
Do you ever experience a jolt of sharp but temporary pain in your mouth? If this happens often, you might have sensitive teeth. Tooth sensitivity often starts and stops suddenly and is usually triggered by extreme temperatures in food, beverages or the air. Tooth sensitivity is a common problem among adults, however some people are more sensitive than others.
What causes sensitive teeth?
Sensitivity in teeth, whether to hot, cold, sweets or weather, can be caused by a variety of factors and conditions. The most common causes for tooth sensitivity includes the following:
- Worn or damaged tooth enamel
- Holes, cracks or microfractures in your teeth
- Changing weather puts pressure on your sinuses, leading to pain at your gum line
However, other factors or conditions may also be present and may have a direct impact on the type of sensitivity experienced and treatment prescribed. In order to determine the root cause of dentin hypersensitivity, a thorough dental examination, including an evaluation of medical and dental history as well as lifestyle factors, should be performed by your dentist.
How do I treat or manage my sensitive teeth?
If you are suffering from tooth sensitivity you have options to help manage your pain. Here are 5 tips for managing sensitive teeth.
However, if your tooth sensitivity persists or increases, please schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Sensitivity may indicate the presence of a more serious dental or oral health condition and should be evaluated and treated by a dentist immediately.
- Try Desensitizing Toothpaste
One of the simplest options is to try a desensitizing toothpaste. Compared to regular toothpaste, desensitizing formulas contain additives like potassium nitrate and stannous fluoride to reduce sensitivity and protect nerves from painful stimulation.
Use desensitizing toothpaste in the same way that you would a regular toothpaste formula and brush twice a day as usual. It may take several applications before you notice a difference. If the switch does not help alleviate your pain after a few weeks of use, you may need to speak with your dentist.
- Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush
When choosing a toothbrush, it is important to avoid those with hard or stiff bristles. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles that are gentle on your teeth and gums. Choosing a toothbrush with a small head will also allow you to brush hard to reach places and to spend more time in each quadrant of your mouth.
Look for a toothbrush especially made for massaging the gums. Soft bristle toothbrushes are designed to minimize irritation and are gentle for brushing and removing plaque on the gumline. Massaging the gums as you brush will help to promote blood flow and reduce inflammation.
- Use a Mouth Rinse
Another tip for managing pain from tooth sensitivity is to use a mouth rinse once or twice a day. There are several options that you can use and they each help alleviate oral pain. Other benefits to using a mouth rinse are:
- Fresh breath
- Reduce inflammation
- Act as an antiseptic to prevent oral infection
Saltwater Mouthwash – gargle with a warm saltwater solution at least twice a day. Combine 8 ounces of warm water with 1 teaspoon of table salt. Gargle and swish around your mouth for 30 sec.
Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse – Another mouth rinse that may help alleviate tooth sensitivity – mix two parts warm water with one part 3% concentration hydrogen peroxide. Using this percentage is important, anything stronger could cause damage. Gargle the solution for 30 seconds, then expel. Rinse your mouth with fresh water to remove any excess hydrogen peroxide. Be careful not to swallow any of the rinse.
Oil Pulling – Another option is to clean your mouth with a natural, food-grade oil – such as melted coconut oil – to help draw out bacteria and toxins. Oil pulling is also an effective way to moisturize your gums and helps to sanitize your mouth. Melt 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and swish around in your mouth for five minutes, then spit and repeat. Once you have finished rinsing, flush your mouth with warm, clean water.
- Avoid Acidic Foods and Drinks
One way to prevent or help treat your sensitive teeth is to avoid acidic ingredients that are found in many everyday foods and drinks. These acidic ingredients wear down the tooth’s enamel, which is a cause for tooth sensitivity. Here is a basic list of products that contain acidic ingredients:
- Coffee
- Citrus fruits
- Carbonated beverages
- Tomatoes
- Fruit Juice
Practice moderation when enjoying foods and beverages that contain acidic ingredients and rinse your mouth with water after finishing your meal to help remove the acid from your teeth.
- Talk to Your Dentist
It is important that you share your concerns and oral pain with your dentist. Dr. Chen at Smiley Pearls can help to assess your level of sensitivity and help recommend other options for treatment.
In addition, Dr. Chen can assess your gums for any swelling or infection that may be causing your sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity is one symptom of periodontal disease. If left untreated, periodontal disease can cause chronic mouth pain, difficulty chewing and tooth loss.
The dentist may also recommend dental vanishes or coating. These products add a layer of protection to your tooth enamel, helping to alleviate sensitivity symptoms and preventing future problems.
Schedule a Dental Exam at Smiley Pearls
If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, the first step is to schedule a check-up at Smiley Pearls in Sachse, TX, or another dentist near you. Persistent tooth sensitivity is not impossible to manage but should be evaluated and treated properly. The best things you can do for your oral health are to establish a thorough hygiene routine and schedule regular checkups with your dentist. Schedule an appointment at our Sachse, TX dental office today to help manage your tooth pain and prevent future problems.