Last Updated on October 4, 2024
Sensitive teeth can make daily activities like eating, drinking, or even walking outside in colder weather a painful experience. If you frequently experience a sharp burst of pain in your teeth when drinking coffee, eating ice cream or being hit by a gust of cold air, sensitive teeth may be the cause. Sensitive teeth are a common, though frustrating issue. The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) estimates that up to 40 million adults in the United States suffer from this condition.
Causes of Sensitive Teeth
The primary cause of sensitive teeth is thinning of the enamel, the hard covering that protects teeth from damage. Thinning of the enamel exposes the dentin within teeth, which is full of nerve endings. Exposed nerve endings are the reason you can feel a sudden flash of pain when enjoying your favorite ice cream.
Fortunately, sensitive teeth are a treatable condition. Here are some of your options for managing sensitive teeth.
Adjust Your Brushing Habits
Tooth sensitivity may be reduced by a simple change in your daily brushing habits. Switching to a softer toothbrush should be one of your first steps. Brushes with hard bristles can aggravate your teeth, increasing sensitivity and discomfort. Likewise, scrubbing teeth aggressively can hasten damage to the tissue covering the roots of your teeth and increase sensitivity. Be sure to brush gently for a full two minutes at least twice daily.
Use a Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth
Toothpastes designed to treat sensitive teeth offer an effective remedy. You can purchase them over the counter, and their ingredients work to protect your teeth. Use the toothpaste regularly to see improvement.
Avoid Acidic Foods and Beverages
Soda, citrus, and red wine rank among the worst offenders when it comes to acidic foods and beverages. If you can’t fully avoid them, wait at least twenty minutes before brushing after consumption. Brushing too soon can actually increase sensitivity, so rinse your mouth and give your saliva time to neutralize the acids before brushing.
Surgical Solutions for Sensitive Teeth
In some cases, surgical solutions may be recommended to treat the underlying cause of your teeth sensitivity. If you have receding gums, tissue grafts can help protect your teeth roots and reduce sensitivity. Inlays, crowns and bonding may also be options if there is damage to your teeth that is causing or exacerbating your sensitivity.
Conclusion
Sensitive teeth pose a challenge, but you can manage them effectively with proper care and treatment. Simple changes, like switching to a softer toothbrush, or advanced solutions, such as surgical procedures, offer relief. If you struggle with tooth sensitivity, reach out to our dentist for a consultation and discover the best treatment for your needs.
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