How To Treat Sensitive Teeth

Moreover, 17% of the population has such an extreme fear of dentists and dentistry that they refuse to visit or get essential dental work done.

Many people go about their daily lives embracing the cold weather and the pain from the sensitivity of their teeth because of this, which will surely impact the quality of their day.

Why Do Teeth Become Sensitive?

Each tooth is covered with a layer of dentin, which is in turn covered by a layer of enamel. Sensitivity occurs when both the enamel and the dentin are worn away, thus exposing the dental pulp cavity which is where the nerves and blood vessels are located.

Once exposed, your teeth become extremely sensitive to foods that are too hot, too cold, too acidic or too sweet.

Some of the main culprits for sensitive teeth include:

• Insufficient oral care practices,

• brushing too hard,

• using a toothbrush that has hard bristles,

• grinding teeth during sleep,

• aging.

Unfortunately, some causes of sensitive teeth are completely natural and can’t be reversed or stopped. However, there are ways you can treat them if you really want to start living pain-free again!

But what are my options?

Initially, the best course of action would be to determine the cause of the sensitivity.

If the sensitivity is caused by a cavity, then a dental restoration would be the preferred option, which would require a trip to the dentist or orthodontist.

If it’s caused by gum disease, then a quick visit to your dentist or dental hygienist would be the preferred option.

If it’s caused by dentin being exposed, then there are various treatments that may help to remedy this painful experience.

Interestingly, the Oral Health Foundation has concluded that women are more likely than men to develop dental issues, even though men tend to be far more negligent of their oral health.

Professional Treatments

There are a number of professional and domestic remedies that can improve the condition of sensitive teeth, however, they can be categorised into two segments. The first being professional treatment, which would include:

#1: Applying a fluoride-based toothpaste to help strengthen enamel and dentin

#2: Placing some highly concentrated fluoride gel onto the sensitive area to strengthen enamel and dentin

#3: Sealing the sensitive area with a resistant material, such as wax, to prevent any exposure

#4: Covering the receding part of the gum line with a gum graft

#5: Treating the sensitive area with endodontists or a root canal

Each of the methods listed above are all great and effective routes to take when tackling this issue, however they do require appointments and treatment, which might not work for you.

At-Home Treatments

That’s why this next list will include remedies that can be done at home. These include:

1. Chewing sugar-free gum in order to increase the production of saliva, which will help strengthen tooth enamel
2. Using soft-bristled toothbrushes on your teeth to reduce inflammation on the gums
3. Brushing your teeth and gums softly twice a day for no less than 2 minutes
4. Purchasing toothpaste that’s specifically designed to combat tooth sensitivity
5. Reduce the consumption of highly acidic foods such as fruit juices, pop and artificially sweetened teas.

Incorporating these varied foods into your diet will also help improve your enamel’s health.

• Tea: Unsweetened, natural teas contain a high amount of fluoride that helps strengthen your enamel.
• Dairy: Dairy products contain calcium, which is instrumental in maintaining healthy bones, which include your teeth and jawbone.
• Protein: A diet rich in protein that includes eggs, beans, nuts and fish contains a lot of phosphorus, which is very similar to calcium with almost parallel effects.

Each of the dietary recommendations above contributes to not only decreasing tooth sensitivity, but also are great at maintaining a healthy and balanced diet.

If none of these are working for you then you might need a more permanent solution. You can request a FREE phone consultation with us, just fill in the form below!