Sensitive teeth can be a real pain. After all, when you can no longer enjoy the food and beverages you love because of the discomfort they cause, it can make a normally pleasant meal a game of strategy. So, what can you do to make your mouth feel better so you can once again consume the hot, cold, or acidic items that trigger your teeth? Here are some easy, effective steps you can take to make mealtimes more pleasant, all the while strengthening your smile!
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
Sometimes, even healthy teeth and gums can have reactions to hot, cold, or acidic stimuli in your mouth. In fact, if it happens occasionally, you shouldn’t need to do anything to address it. However, if you are experiencing frequent sensitivity when consuming certain items or when brushing and flossing, this could indicate a problem.
How Can I Treat Sensitive Teeth?
There are many reasons why teeth become sensitive over time, including enamel erosion, gum recession, cavities, and even tooth infections. If your teeth are in otherwise good health, your dentist may recommend switching to a sensitive toothpaste. These products are designed to restore eroded enamel by packing the microscopic pores in your teeth with powerful ingredients designed to calm their nerves, rebuild their enamel, and then seal off the canals that lead to their dentin so outside stimuli cannot affect it.
For more serious problems such as receding gums, tooth infections, and cavities, however, your dentist will need to treat your smile to stop the pain and prevent the condition from worsening. Ultimately, the best way to determine how to address your sensitive teeth will be to visit your dentist as soon as possible. During this visit, he will examine your smile and diagnose the root cause of your discomfort. Then, he can make recommendations for treatment such as using sensitive toothpaste or repairing damaged teeth or gums to prevent future discomfort.
Remember, it’s not uncommon to experience occasional tooth sensitivity when enjoying foods that are hot, cold, or highly acidic. However, if you are noticing frequent or regular pain or discomfort when doing everyday things like eating or cleaning your teeth, it’s time to visit your dentist for help!
About Dr. Jetton
Dr. Brad Jetton earned his undergraduate degree from Midwestern State University and his dental doctorate from the University of Texas Dental Branch (now the UT Health Houston School of Dentistry). He is pleased to offer a full selection of smile-saving oral health treatments, including routine dental checkups and cleanings. To book a visit to care for your own smile, visit our website or call New Teeth Dental Solutions today at 713-257-9470.