How to Deal With Sensitive Teeth

Taking care of your teeth is important. Even if you keep up with brushing and flossing every day, there’s no guarantee that they’ll stay healthy. One of the most common problems that can occur as you get older is increased sensitivity in your teeth.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Obviously, the best way to deal with tooth sensitivity is to prevent it from occurring in the first place. The only way to do that, though, is to understand the root causes of the problem. There are a few different ways you can end up with sensitive teeth, but the bottom line is this: tooth sensitivity is caused by the decay of the enamel on your teeth.

Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do to prevent sensitive teeth due to enamel decay. Here are 5 things you can do that will significantly reduce your risk for teeth sensitivity.

1. Use Toothpaste Designed for Sensitive Teeth

Plenty of toothpaste brands cater specifically to people with sensitive teeth. Although not everyone finds the effective, they may be a great way to help reduce the effects of sensitive teeth. Bear in mind that you have to use sensitivity toothpaste continuously for it to work properly.

2. Don’t Brush Too Hard

Brushing too vigorously will cause your enamel to weaken prematurely. Develop a slower, gentler brushing technique. And if you don’t already use one, get yourself an electric toothbrush with a sensitive teeth setting. This will prevent root exposure and help eliminate the possibility of sensitive teeth.

3. Avoid Acidic Food When Possible

Most people believe that the only way to wear out your enamel is to eat sweets. Unfortunately, not true. Acidic foods like oranges, pickles, soft drinks, and others keep your enamel under constant stress. Eliminate these foods from your diet and reduce your chances of developing sensitive teeth.

4. Use Fluoride Toothpaste

Strengthen your enamel with fluoride-enriched toothpaste. Fluoride can help revitalize your enamel, which will in turn protect your teeth from over-sensitivity.

5. Chew Gum

Sugar-free gum will help produce more saliva, which will help harden your enamel.

If teeth sensitivity is causing you pain, request an appointment with one of our general dentists.