Living with Sensitive Teeth | Why You’re In Pain and What You Can Do to Strengthen Your Pearly Whites
When microscopic holes in the dentin appear, pain can be triggered by certain drinks and foods.
Having sensitive teeth can really affect your day and the way you are able to enjoy life. And if you're experiencing tooth tingling or pain when you eat hot or cold foods or sweets you may be one of the many who are suffering from tooth sensitivity. But what causes it?
Why Am I So Sensitive?
The Science Behind the Sensation
Dentin, a porous tissue, is normally protected by gums and tooth enamel. But when microscopic holes in the dentin appear, pain can be triggered by certain drinks and foods. The microscopic holes or tubules are often caused by but not limited to the following:
- Grinding or clenching teeth
- Chipped or fractured teeth
- Erosion caused by aging
- Receding gums or gum disease
Fighting Through the Pain
There's Hope For the Hurting
The good news is that if you're suffering from sensitive teeth, you don't have to suffer forever! There are quite a few solutions available to you so that you can say goodbye to pain and tingling for good.
Schedule an appointment with your dentist today to discover the best treatment options for you and your sensitive teeth, and while you're counting down the days until your visit, check out this list of things you can try at home for a little tooth sensitivity relief.
- Continue to brush and floss your teeth to maintain good oral hygiene being careful to brush gums gently and carefully.
- Trade your hard-bristled toothbrush for a soft one that will protect your teeth from abrasion and help prevent unnecessary gum irritation.
- Try a desensitizing toothpaste
- Choose a toothpaste and mouth rinse that contains fluoride.
- If you grind your teeth, try wearing a mouthguard at night.
- Avoid foods and drinks with high acidity as they can dissolve tooth enamel.
If you have questions about how you can discover dentin relief and are ready to put your teeth tingle behind you, schedule an appointment with Dr. Moore today! We can't wait to help you heal.