Dealing With Tooth Sensitivity: Causes and Remedies
Do you feel a sudden sharp pain in your teeth and gums while consuming hot or cold foods or beverages? If yes, you may be a victim of tooth sensitivity, and it may be time to visit your local dentist. When you are at your appointment ask our dental experts Dr Hwang or Dr Winston or any of the dental staff ways to help sensitive teeth feel better.
This is a common dental issue that affects many people of all ages. And the culprit can be various things, including gum disease.
Many people experience some degree of this sensitivity to cold and hot at some point. But for some people, it’s an ongoing issue interfering with their lives.
To learn more about the causes of this condition and how to remedy the problem, read on. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some possible causes. We’ll discuss remedies that’ll help you deal with this sensitivity effectively.
Causes of Sensitive Teeth
It is characterized by a sudden sharp pain or discomfort felt in the teeth when exposed to certain triggers. Causes can be varied, but there are common culprits.
They range from:
- Small cavities
- Gum recession
- Exposed tooth roots
- Cracked or chipped teeth
- Enamel erosion
- Fillings that are worn down
- Overly aggressive brushing
- Grinding your teeth at night
You can even experience this with certain dental treatments, like teeth whitening. Other medical conditions or even lifestyle habits can also contribute to dental sensitivity. For example, consuming acidic food (soft drinks, pickles, or citrus fruits) can also increase sensitivity.
Symptoms of Tooth Sensitivity
The main symptom is sharp pain when consuming cold, hot, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks. Sensitivity and pain may also be accompanied by sensitivity to sweet and sour foods and hot and cold air.
If left untreated, the sensitivity can worsen, so discussing your situation with your dentist and finding a remedy that works best for you is important.
Remedies to Relieve This Painful Condition
It can be painful and affect everyday tasks, such as eating, drinking, and brushing teeth. Its causes can range from gum recession to tooth decay and acid reflux. So, to relieve tooth sensitivity, the solution will depend on what’s causing tooth pain in the first place.
Here are some common remedies.
Desensitizing Toothpaste
Sensitive teeth can be incredibly uncomfortable, causing avoidable pain that is hard to ignore. It’s often caused by receding gum lines that expose nerve endings. A desensitizing product is the best toothpaste for sensitive teeth.
Since it has ingredients such as potassium nitrate, strontium chloride, and hydroxyapatite, it can relieve pain and discomfort caused by tooth enamel hypersensitivity. It may also help to improve tooth enamel, preventing further erosion.
Plus, it’s relatively easy to use. To use desensitizing toothpaste, brush twice daily, avoid harsh scrubbing, and be gentle around the gum line.
Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride treatment is an effective measure for reducing the pain of tooth sensitivity.
Fluoride works to stop demineralization, which various things, such as sugar, acidic snacks, and drinks, can cause. When our teeth lose minerals, they become more sensitive and painful when exposed to cold, heat, or pressure.
During treatment, fluoride is applied directly to the teeth. It helps replace lost minerals and makes the teeth stronger and more decay-resistant.
Fluoride treatment can prevent or reduce this pain by strengthening the enamel and reducing the contact of the exposed dentin to stimuli like cold and heat. It can also reduce the progression of decay.
Furthermore, fluoride treatments are cost-effective and quick, making them a simple and effective remedy for those suffering from tooth sensitivity.
Softer Toothbrush
While various things can cause sensitivity, the leading cause is generally due to wear and tear from aggressive brushing. To reduce sensitivity and heal any existing damage, it’s recommended to use a softer one.
Brushing with a softer bristled brush is gentler on the enamel of the teeth, reducing the risk of damage and allowing it to heal more quickly. Lastly, it’s also important to use floss or a Waterpik device to remove any food-causing sensitivity.
Electric Toothbrush and Sensitive Teeth
Using an electric toothbrush can be a great way to minimize the sensitivity. Electric brushes are known to remove plaque more effectively and gently compared to manual brushes, reducing the risk of sensitivity from brushing too hard.
Investing in an electric one with a sensitive mode can help soothe sensitive teeth while maintaining good oral hygiene.
Prevention Tips
Areventing it is often easier than treating it. Practicing good oral hygiene habits can help prevent tooth sensitivity. Additionally, choosing the right toothbrush and toothpaste for sensitive teeth can go a long way.
Scheduling regular dental visits for check-ups and cleanings can also help identify and address any sensitivity issues early on.
Alleviate Tooth Sensitivity
Dealing with tooth sensitivity can be frustrating. But with the proper knowledge, you can alleviate discomfort and prevent it from happening again.
Remember to prioritize your oral hygiene regimen by seeing your dentist regularly, including choosing a toothpaste and brushing technique that caters to sensitive teeth. If you haven’t already, consider using an electric designed for sensitive teeth and seek advice from your dentist for more personalized solutions.
We hope this article has helped bring awareness to this painful condition of your teeth.
If you have any further questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Please call our dental office at 562-949-0177. We are located in Pico Rivera Ca at 9123 Slauson Ave.
Three Facts About Tooth Sensitivity:
Most people agree that dental implants cause very little to no pain and discomfort. Your dentist will most likely use a local anesthetic to make sure you are comfortable during the procedure.
If you are feeling a bit of pain after your procedure, you may treat it with simple, over the counter medication such as Tylenol, Advil, or Motrin usually works.
How Do I Care for My Sensitive Teeth?
1. How long does it take for desensitizing toothpaste to work on sensitive teeth?
Desensitizing toothpaste doesn’t provide immediate relief from tooth sensitivity. It’s designed to build up protection over time, and many people start to experience relief after several days to a couple of weeks of consistent use. However, results may vary depending on the individual and the severity of the sensitivity.
2. Can tooth sensitivity be a sign of a more serious condition?
While tooth sensitivity is often due to benign causes such as worn tooth enamel or exposed tooth roots, it can sometimes be a sign of a more serious dental condition like tooth decay, a cracked tooth, or gum disease. If you’re experiencing persistent sensitivity, it’s important to see a dentist to identify and address the underlying cause.
3. Are there certain foods and drinks I should avoid if I have sensitive teeth?
Yes, if you have sensitive teeth, you might want to avoid foods and drinks that can exacerbate the problem. These can include very hot or cold foods and beverages, acidic foods like citrus fruits and vinegar-based pickles, and sugary foods and drinks. If you do consume these items, it can help to rinse your mouth with water afterward to minimize their impact on your teeth.
