Seven Tips for Dealing with Sensitive Teeth

Do you find yourself wincing with tooth pain when you sip hot coffee or take a bite of an ice cream cone? Or do you find brushing your teeth to be uncomfortable? These are classic signs of sensitive teeth. Tooth sensitivity usually occurs when part of the tooth is exposed due to gum disease, teeth grinding, plaque build-up, or just regular wear and tear. Sometimes, tooth sensitivity is short-lived, while other times, it requires attention from a dentist. If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, try these tips to relieve your pain.

1. Use sensitive teeth toothpaste. Many brands of toothpaste are specifically designed to relieve sensitive teeth. These kinds of toothpaste contain a specific fluoride ingredient that strengthens the enamel on your teeth to protect the nerve endings. While you won’t necessarily feel better overnight, with time, you should notice a difference in your sensitivity.
2. Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush. Brushing too hard can wear down your teeth and gums and can lead to exposed nerves. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush instead of a medium- or hard-bristled one can reduce the amount of wear and tear on your teeth. Remember, brushing thoroughly is essential, but with little force.
3. Avoid acidic foods. Acidic foods and drinks, like fruits, coffee, condiments, and soft drinks, can damage tooth enamel over time. Weakened enamel means that the inside of the tooth is likely to be exposed, which can cause tooth sensitivity. In addition, high-acidic foods can trigger tooth sensitivity; it’s best to consume these in moderation.
4. Rinse with saltwater. Saltwater can help to balance out the acid in your mouth that comes from eating the foods listed above. Make a quick saltwater solution and rinse in your mouth to reduce tooth sensitivity quickly.
5. Wear a mouthguard at night. If teeth grinding contributes to your tooth sensitivity, wearing a mouthguard at night can prevent tooth enamel erosion. The less of the tooth exposed, the less sensitivity you will experience.
6. Try a fluoride varnish. For severely sensitive teeth, dentists can apply a special fluoride varnish that helps to fill the small holes in your teeth. The varnish helps to protect the nerve endings so that you have less sensitivity and usually lasts for several months.
7. Get regular dental check-ups. Having your teeth cleaned and checked by a dentist every six months is the best way to prevent tooth sensitivity. Your dentist will have an opportunity to inspect your teeth and can recommend solutions to help you reduce the pain and discomfort that comes from sensitive teeth.

If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, contact Vacendak Dentistry at (757) 609-3510 or online. Our dentists can help to determine what’s causing your sensitive teeth and recommend treatment to address the issue.