Sensitive teeth can be uncomfortable and disrupt your daily life. Many people deal with this issue, especially when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sweet foods. Understanding why your teeth are sensitive is the first step to finding relief.
Why Are My Teeth Sensitive?
Tooth sensitivity happens when the dentin, the layer under the enamel, becomes exposed. Dentin has tiny tubules that connect to the nerves inside your teeth. When exposed, these tubules let hot, cold, or acidic substances reach the nerves, causing pain.
Several factors can cause this exposure:
- Brushing too hard: Using too much force or a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear away enamel.
- Gum recession: This can expose the roots of your teeth, often because of gum disease.
- Tooth decay or damage: Cavities, worn fillings, or cracks in your teeth can lead to sensitivity.
- Acidic foods and drinks: Sodas, citrus fruits, and similar items can erode enamel.
- Teeth grinding: Also called bruxism, grinding your teeth can wear down enamel over time.
Knowing these causes can help you avoid habits or situations that worsen sensitivity and guide you toward effective treatment.
How to Care for Sensitive Teeth
Practice Gentle Oral Hygiene
Taking good care of your teeth is key to reducing sensitivity. Brush at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Hard bristles can damage enamel and gums, increasing sensitivity. Use fluoride toothpaste, which strengthens enamel and helps protect against sensitivity. Floss every day to keep your gums healthy and avoid gum recession.
Replace your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles start to fray. Brushing gently, rather than scrubbing hard, will clean your teeth without harming the enamel.
Make Smart Diet Choices
Your diet plays a big role in oral health. Try to avoid acidic foods and drinks like soda, wine, and citrus fruits. These can wear away your enamel over time. Limit sugary treats, as sugar feeds bacteria that cause decay and sensitivity.
Instead, focus on foods that support healthy teeth. Calcium-rich foods like dairy products and leafy greens strengthen enamel. Vitamin D, found in fortified foods and sunlight, helps your body absorb calcium better. Drink plenty of water to wash away food particles and acids while keeping your mouth hydrated. Saliva, which water helps produce, protects your enamel and keeps your mouth healthy.
Products to Help Sensitive Teeth
Desensitizing Toothpaste
Special toothpaste made for sensitive teeth can provide relief over time. Use it twice daily, and be patient—it may take a few weeks to see results. For best results, don’t rinse your mouth immediately after brushing. Let the toothpaste sit on your teeth for a few minutes so it can penetrate and block sensitivity at its source.
Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride strengthens enamel and helps reduce sensitivity. Some over-the-counter mouthwashes include fluoride, but you can also ask your dentist about professional fluoride treatments for faster, stronger results.
When to Seek Professional Care
If your sensitivity doesn’t improve with home care, visit your dentist. They can offer treatments like:
- Fluoride varnishes or gels to strengthen enamel.
- Bonding agents to cover exposed dentin and protect it from pain triggers.
- Desensitizing agents applied directly to your teeth for quick relief.
In severe cases, your dentist might recommend a root canal. This procedure removes the nerve inside the tooth, eliminating sensitivity. However, this is only done when other treatments don’t work.
When to Call the Dentist
If sensitivity lasts more than a few weeks or gets worse, it’s time to see a dentist. Persistent sensitivity could mean you have a deeper issue, like tooth decay, gum disease, or a cracked tooth. Early treatment can prevent further damage and reduce your discomfort.
Regular check-ups are important for maintaining oral health. During these visits, your dentist can catch potential problems early and give you personalized advice on caring for sensitive teeth.
At Kildaire Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we understand how frustrating tooth sensitivity can be. We’re here to help you find the right treatment for lasting relief. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and start your journey to a healthier, more comfortable smile.