Managing sensitive teeth with tips and tricks from our dentist
Have you ever taken a sip of a hot drink and immediately winced? Or have you ever avoided eating certain foods because they trigger an unpleasant sensation in your teeth? Perhaps you should come to see our dentist in Brentwood as you may be experiencing sensitive teeth.
But what exactly causes this sensitivity? There are several possible reasons. One common cause is gum recession, which exposes the root surface of your teeth and makes them more sensitive to temperature and pressure changes. Tooth decay and cracks in your teeth can also lead to sensitivity, as can acidic foods and drinks that erode your enamel.
Brushing your teeth too hard or using a toothbrush with hard bristles can also contribute to sensitivity, as can grinding your teeth at night. Using a mouthwash with alcohol or using too much bleach when whitening your teeth can also cause sensitivity.
The link between sensitive teeth and overall health
We believe, at Coptfold Dental, it’s important to address sensitive teeth not only for the sake of your oral health, but also for your overall health. Sensitive teeth can be a sign of underlying issues that need to be addressed, such as gum disease or tooth decay. Left unchecked, these issues can lead to more serious health problems down the road.
In addition, sensitive teeth can be a sign of a vitamin or mineral deficiency. For example, a lack of calcium or vitamin D can lead to weaker teeth and increased sensitivity. Ensuring that you’re getting enough of these nutrients through a balanced diet or supplements can help improve your oral health and reduce sensitivity.
How can you manage sensitive teeth?
If you’re dealing with sensitive teeth, don’t despair! There are several things you can do to manage sensitivity and improve your oral hygiene.
First and foremost, it’s important to visit our dental team regularly to ensure that there are no underlying issues causing your sensitivity. Our dentist in Brentwood may recommend using a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth, which typically contains compounds that block the transmission of pain from the tooth surface to the nerve.
You should also be mindful of your brushing technique. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and only apply gentle pressure when brushing. Avoid brushing in a back-and-forth motion, as this can cause further erosion of your enamel.
It’s also a good idea to avoid acidic foods and drinks as much as possible, as they can contribute to tooth sensitivity. If you do consume acidic substances, be sure to rinse your mouth with water afterwards to neutralise the acid.
Finally, if you grind your teeth at night, consider wearing a mouthguard to protect your teeth and reduce sensitivity.
When to seek professional help
If you’ve tried the tips above and are still experiencing sensitivity, it’s important to visit our dental team. They will be able to assess your oral health and determine the cause of your sensitivity.
In some cases, our dental team may recommend a fluoride treatment to strengthen your enamel and reduce sensitivity. They may also suggest a root canal procedure if the sensitivity is being caused by an infected tooth.
Don’t let sensitive teeth hold you back from enjoying your favourite foods and drinks. With the right management techniques and professional help, you can take control of your oral health and reduce sensitivity.
If you’re experiencing sensitive teeth and want to learn more about managing the sensitivity, don’t hesitate to contact our dentist in Brentwood at Coptfold Dental. Our team of experienced dental practitioners will be happy to help you find a solution that works for you.