Teeth can become sensitive for many different reasons. Sometimes it’s temporary, but for a lot of people it can be a constant issue that causes a lot of pain and discomfort. A few reasons for sensitive teeth are excessive brushing, damaged teeth, too much dental bleaching, or infection or disease in the mouth. Also, generally as people age, the enamel of the tooth becomes more worn and causes extra sensitivity. If you have sensitive teeth:
- Make an appointment with your dentist to get a professional evaluation on why your teeth might be that way.
- Change your toothpaste to one that is specially formulated to help fill any small holes in your dentin, which will help reduce sensitivity. Also, make sure your toothbrush is soft so that you don’t end up damaging your enamel and making your teeth more sensitive than they need to be.
- Add a fluorine rinse to your daily oral routine. Fluorine (which is included in many toothpastes) can help take care of your tooth enamel.
- Avoid eating too many foods that contain a lot of acid. Acid is harsh on your teeth and can cause staining or even more permanent damage over time. If you don’t want to change your diet, make sure to rinse your mouth out with water and brush your teeth thoroughly after eating any acidic foods.
- Keep up good dental hygiene habits such as changing your toothbrush every 2-3 months (or whenever it starts to look frayed or worn), brush and floss daily, and drink a lot of water to prevent any food from being left on your tooth for too long.
- If nothing changes and the sensitivity is still there, or even worse, make another appointment with your dentist to discuss professional treatment.
It may take a few weeks for any of the above to take effect. Sensitivity in your teeth is not something that usually goes away overnight. If you have sensitive teeth that need treatment, call us at 203-746-1200 or make an appointment here. Dr. Lorraine Burio of Candlewood Dental Care has been treating patients in the New Fairfield, CT area for over twenty-five years.