Tooth Sensitivity: What Can I Do?
Picture it: You’re sitting poolside on a beautiful 80-degree July day. You’ve made a batch of smoothies for you and the kids as an afternoon snack. Settled in your lounge chair you take a sip and boom – that zinging sensation overwhelms your mouth. Bam – tooth sensitivity.
This experience describes tooth sensitivity, which can be triggered by sweet, cold or hot food and beverages. Not only can this condition get in the way of enjoying your summer to the fullest, but it can also predict an even greater concern – gum disease.
Both gingivitis and the more advanced condition periodontitis can result in tooth sensitivity. Additional symptoms include:
- Bleeding gum tissue
- Swollen and/or inflamed gums
- Loose feeling teeth or gum tissue that appears to be separating from teeth
- Chronic bad breath
It is vital to begin treating gum disease early so symptoms can be managed and reduced. If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity you should stay on top of your regular cleanings, maintain a strict and efficient brushing and flossing regimen and consider visiting a periodontist to further evaluate your case.
Additionally, here are some tips for reducing tooth sensitivity:
- Use toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth – While using a specialized toothpaste will not guarantee results, it is a good place to start for minor tooth sensitivity. Experts say it is important to use it regularly to see results. We recommend Oral-B/Crest products for the best results.
- Avoid acidic food and drinks – Drinks like red wine, soda, fruit juices and foods like oranges and pickles put your enamel under attack. Enamel loss is irreversible so it is important to limit these acidic foods and beverages. Ask your Farber Center dental hygienist about a varnish to further protect your teeth from enamel loss.
- Defend yourself against grinding – Grinding your teeth wears away enamel and can lead to a sensitivity problem. People often grind their teeth without realizing it, especially in their sleep, so wearing a mouthguard at night can help.
- Treat your receding gums – Gum recession is one of the leading causes of tooth sensitivity. Luckily Farber Center offers a variety of services that rebuild or restore receding gums.
There is no definite explanation for sensitive teeth, but proper oral hygiene is the key to preventing sensitive tooth pain.
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