Avoiding eating cold or hot foods because your teeth are sensitive? Tooth sensitivity is one of the most common complaints among dental patients.
Many people suffer from sensitive teeth and it can start at any time. It’s more common in people aged between 20 and 40, although it can affect people in their early teens and when they are over 70. Women are more likely to be affected than men.
Sensitive teeth or ‘Hypersensitivity’ can have many causes such as;
- Bruising of the tooth foundations from clenching and grinding
- Using a hard grip while brushing harshly, damaging the enamel or making the gum shrink away
- Tooth erosion due to highly acidic foods and beverages.
- Tooth decay
- Worn fillings and broken teeth
The inside of your tooth is primarily made up of a material called dentin, which contains microscopic tubules filled with tiny nerve endings. A hard layer of enamel protects the dentin within the crown portion of your tooth. Dentin hypersensitivity occurs when the dentin loses its protective covering of enamel which results in the exposure of the nerve endings to hot, cold, acidic, or sweet/sugaring foods.
How can you prevent Sensitive Teeth?
There are many brands of toothpaste and mouthwash to help prevent the pain caused by sensitive teeth. It’s highly recommended to use fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day, as well as rubbing it onto the sensitive areas. It’s important to remember not to brush your teeth straight after you’ve eaten, it’s recommended for you to wait an hour after. Although fluoride toothpaste will help strengthen enamel and reduce sensitivity and ease the discomfort, it doesn’t act straight away, it may take several weeks to take full effect. Changing your toothbrush every two to three months when it becomes worn is also beneficial to preventing sensitive teeth.
Further methods to relieve tooth pains are these;
- Preventive care
- Wearing a night guard if you clench or grind
- Chewing gum
- Fluoride rinse
If you’re suffering from sensitive teeth then it’s important to visit your dentist as soon as you can for treatment. Book your appointment with Gov Suthi or Mark Tangri on 0333 1234 999.
You may be interested in the following articles:
Why are dental check-ups important?
How does oral health affect overall health
Tips on how to take care of your gums
