OZARK, MISSOURI – If you have ever experienced tooth sensitivity, you know it is never far from your mind. Avoiding that “ouch” moment can affect everything from what and how you eat to when and if you take care of dental hygiene.
Pain caused by tooth sensitivity is no longer a problem that you have to live with because the dentists of Barnett-Davis Dental Group are explaining the most common culprits of tooth sensitivity and how to get relief.
Take It Easy
Sometimes tooth sensitivity can be caused by brushing with too much force or with a toothbrush with bristles that are too hard. The protective layers of your teeth wear down when a person repeatedly brushes improperly, exposing the microscopic hollow tubes or canals that lead to the dental nerves.
“The tubules are very sensitive, meaning exposure to hot, cold, acidic or sticky foods and beverages often results in discomfort or pain,” says Dr. Kelly Barnett, an Ozark tooth whitening specialist. She recommends patients switch to a toothbrush with softer bristles and to brush gently.
Check The Ingredient Label
Acidic foods and beverages like tomato sauce, lemon, grapefruit, kiwi and pickles can push those tooth sensitivity buttons, so avoid them while you work on finding the reason for the sensitivity.
Some people are very sensitive to ingredients, such as teeth-whitening chemicals or alcohol, added to certain types of toothpaste and mouthwash. Switching the toothpaste brand or type for one that does not contain tooth whitening active ingredients can alleviate sensitivity symptoms, as well as swapping out the mouthwash or rinse that “burns” for a neutral fluoride rinse.
“In certain cases, you could simply skip the rinse and be more diligent about flossing and brushing,” says Dr. Tracy Davis.
Be On Guard
Bruxism may be the cause of tooth sensitivity for some people. The condition is clenching or grinding the teeth, causing the strongest substance in the body, enamel, to wear down.
“Bruxism eventually exposes the dentin, the middle layer of the tooth, which contains the hollow tubes that lead to your nerves,” says Dr. Marc Barnett. “For this type of situation, investing in a mouth guard – ideally a custom-made guard – protects your teeth and prevents the pain.”
Stop Avoiding The Dental Office
While some instances of tooth sensitivity can be remedied with a simple change in diet, toothbrush, toothpaste or mouthwash, many times tooth sensitivity or pain is because you have gone too long between routine dental exams and cleanings.
Excessive plaque causes the protective enamel of teeth to wear away. Good dental care, meaning daily brushing, flossing, rinsing and regular visits to the dentist for cleanings, should prevent this problem.
Besides keeping cavity-causing plaque at bay, regular cleanings and examinations allow the dentist to watch for decay around the edges of fillings, gum recession and gum disease, which can all cause tooth sensitivity or pain.
“Fillings that have weakened, fractured or leaked around the edges make teeth susceptible to bacteria and enamel breakdown. They need to be replaced to prevent further tooth decay,” says Dr. Marc Barnett.
On the other hand, gum disease left untreated will cause much larger issues than tooth sensitivity or decay. It is the leading cause of tooth loss in people over 35 and is linked to other health problems, including heart and respiratory diseases, preterm, low birth weight babies, stroke, osteoporosis and diabetes.
“Another reason for tooth sensitivity or pain is a chipped or cracked tooth. That often causes pain that goes beyond tooth sensitivity,” says Dr. Davis, a porcelain veneers provider. “Your dentist will evaluate the tooth and discuss the treatment options available.”
Wait It Out After Recent Dental Procedure
Teeth often become more sensitive after a recent visit to the dentist or dental procedure. Some patients may experience sensitivity after a root canal, an extraction or the placement of dental bridges and crowns.
“If your sensitivity doesn’t dissipate after a day or two, another visit to your dentist is in order to rule out a potential infection,” says Dr. Kelly Barnett.
The Bottom Line
With any tooth sensitivity or pain, an office visit with your dentist can help you determine the culprit, and he or she may recommend other treatments, such as a fluoride gel or prescription desensitizer. These products are applied to areas where you have the most sensitivity to strengthen tooth enamel and reduce sensitivity.
“Together we can come up with a treatment plan to reduce tooth sensitivity and improve dental health, so you can find relief and go about everyday activities without bracing for the ‘ouch,’” says Dr. Marc Barnett.
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