Sensitive teeth is no fun. Not only can it seriously take away from your enjoyment of food, but it can actually be quite painful if it gets bad enough.
Fortunately, if you are suffering from extremely sensitive teeth, there are solutions. Here’s why your teeth may be sensitive, how to prevent and treat the problem, and how a dentist near you can help.
What Causes Extremely Sensitive Teeth?
There are a number of potential causes when it comes to tooth sensitivity.
To start with, some people are simply cursed with teeth that are more sensitive than others. This is due largely to enamel (the hard outer layer that protects it), and the fact that certain individuals simply have thinner enamel than others.
But it could also be caused by other factors.
Anything that strips the enamel away could leave you with very sensitive teeth. This can include things like a broken, cracked or decaying tooth. It can also be caused by seemingly unrelated issues like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), since the constant flow of acid from the stomach can gradually erode the enamel over time
Another potential cause of this could be gum recession, since it leaves portions of the tooth exposed.
There may also be a number of things you’re actually doing that’s caused your teeth to become sensitive over time. This can include an overconsumption of acidic foods and beverages (soft drinks, citrus fruits, etc) and using a toothbrush that’s too hard.
If you’re unsure as to what exactly is causing your tooth sensitivity, a dentist in Okotoks can better evaluate your situation and find out exactly what’s going on.
How To Treat And Prevent Sensitive Teeth
The first step to eliminating or reducing the problem is to identify if something specific is causing it and address that. GERD, for example, can be managed with diet and certain medications (consult with your physician).
But even if there’s no clearly identifiable cause, there are certain steps that almost everyone can take to help prevent and treat sensitive teeth.
An easy initial change can simply be your toothpaste, and opting for an option that’s designed specifically for sensitivity. You should also be careful when choosing a mouthwash, since those with alcohol can actually irritate your teeth (you could also consider a desensitizing toothpaste).
The same goes for your toothbrush. Many patients have reported that using one with a soft bristle toothbrush goes a long way to reducing their discomfort
You should also maintain good oral hygiene - brush, floss and arrange for a dental cleaning in Okotoks on a regular basis. While you may be reluctant because of the pain associated with it, a dental cleaning near you is essential in order to remove plaque and prevent decay that will only make your situation worse.
Finally, adjusting your diet and reducing your consumption of acidic foods can be a tremendous help.
If none of these initial steps are working, there are other treatment options that you and your dentist might consider. They may, for example, apply fluoride to help strengthen the enamel. If your sensitivity is being caused by receding gums, they may recommend a gum graft.
Finally, if the situation becomes serious enough and none of the other options provide relief, you may need to have a root canal performed. While it’s a big procedure, root canals are a very effective treatment option for teeth that are in severe pain.
However, it’s important to note that these cases are the minority. Small lifestyle changes and adjustments to your oral hygiene routine are often sufficient to treat sensitive teeth and help get you back to feeling normal again.
Business Address:- 100 Southbank Blvd #304, Okotoks, AB T1S 0G1, Canada