LIFE WITH SENSITIVE TEETH: 5 HELPFUL TIPS
Lately, it seems like your teeth always hurt whenever you’re brushing them or enjoying a particularly hot or cold meal. It could be simply because they’ve worn down over time, or it might be a warning sign that you have a cavity or another oral health issue. Whatever the cause, sensitive teeth can make everyday life just a bit more challenging – but luckily, there are plenty of ways for the condition to be treated. Here are 5 ways you and your dentist can try and overcome sensitive teeth.
1. Look for Desensitizing Toothpaste
There are plenty of brands of toothpaste specially designed for sensitive teeth. Ideally, you should choose a fluoridated toothpaste, not a tartar-control toothpaste; the fluoride will help strengthen the enamel so that it can better protect the tooth. Your dentist can recommend certain products, but you might have to try different kinds until you find the one that’s right for you. When using the toothpaste, make sure to spread a thin layer on the exposed roots.
2. Get a Soft Bristled Toothbrush
You might not think about it much, but the type of toothbrush you use matters. Hard bristles can be very rough on the enamel, and they can be very uncomfortable to use if your teeth are already sensitive. When buying a new toothbrush (which you should be doing every three or four months), always look for one with soft bristles. When brushing, use gentle, circular strokes; do not scrub your teeth like you would your kitchen floor.
3. Use Fluoridated Mouthwash
If you’re not getting enough fluoride in the toothpaste you use and the water you drink, your dentist might recommend adding fluoridated mouthwash to your oral hygiene routine in order to strengthen the tooth’s roots. Use the mouthwash on a daily basis or as directed. Don’t forget to spit it out once you’re done using it.
4. Consider Getting a Mouthguard
Sometimes your sensitive teeth could be due to bruxism, a common condition where you grind your teeth while asleep. You’ll need to stop this grinding if you want to keep your teeth safe and prevent further pain. The best way to do this is to use a mouthguard that has been custom designed by your dentist.
5. Ask About Other Treatments
Depending on the cause of the sensitivity, your dentist might recommend certain procedures to help protect your exposed tooth roots. For example, if the roots themselves have been exposed, bonding resin might be applied to keep them safe. On the other hand, if the sensitivity is part of a severe infection, you might need a root canal. Be sure to explore all of your options!
Living with sensitive teeth can be difficult at first, but by taking the right precautions and listening to your dentist’s advice, you’ll be able to eat and clean your teeth without pain again.
About the Practice
Here at Shore Dental, we go out of our way to accommodate your needs; that means we welcome walk-in appointments and offer extended evening and weekend hours for families. In addition to regular checkups and preventive care, we can provide fluoride treatments, dental bonding, root canals, and other treatments for sensitive teeth. To schedule an appointment at our North Port location, visit our website or call (941) 257-0826.