Managing Sensitive Teeth: A Comprehensive Guide By Our Bridgeport Dentist
Sensitive teeth are a major problem among many people, and most people don't do anything about it. However, if you leave it for too long, it can become a major issue for you. We recommend you manage sensitive teeth daily to ensure that you don’t have major dental issues in the long run.
Our Bridgeport dentist has created a comprehensive guide for you to follow to manage your sensitive teeth in the long run. Be sure to follow these guidelines for the best results.
What Causes Sensitive Teeth?
Sensitive teeth can result for various reasons, including the hygiene practices of the individual. However, some top reasons, according to our expert Bridgeport dentist, include the following:
Eroding Enamel
Enamel is the hard outer layer of the tooth that protects the underlying dentin and pulp. Erosion occurs when the outer layer of enamel gradually wears away due to exposure to acidic substances.
Acidic foods, drinks, and stomach acid from conditions like acid reflux can weaken and erode the enamel. Once the enamel is compromised, the dentin underneath becomes more exposed, increasing sensitivity.
Receding Gums
Receding gums in the mouth occur when the gum tissue surrounding and supporting the teeth pulls back, exposing the tooth roots. This can be caused by various factors, including aggressive brushing, poor oral hygiene, gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis), and aging.
Exposed tooth roots lack the protective enamel layer, making them more susceptible to sensitivity when exposed to temperature changes and certain foods. It is crucial to visit our Bridgeport dentists to opt for solutions to receding gums and other issues that cause tooth sensitivity.
Cavities Or Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is a result of bacterial activity on the tooth's surface. Bacteria in the mouth produce acids that can eat away at the enamel and create cavities. Even sugary foods can lead to quicker tooth decay because of the high sugar content.
As the decay progresses, it can reach deeper layers of the tooth, including the dentin. Dentin exposure can lead to sensitivity, as dentin contains tiny tubes (tubules) that connect to nerve endings.
How To Tell You Have Sensitive Teeth
Before we move on to management practices, you need to understand the symptoms that will let you know whether you have sensitive teeth. Some symptoms are obvious, but not all. Here are some telltale signs that you might have sensitive teeth:
Discomfort while consuming hot or cold food and drinks
Sudden and sharp pain when teeth are exposed to certain stimuli
Sensitivity to acidic or sweet foods
Feeling discomfort while flossing or brushing teeth
Touching the teeth causes discomfort
All of these are important signs you have sensitive teeth. If that is the case with you, we recommend you visit our Bridgeport dentist. They will conduct a complete assessment to help you manage sensitive teeth.
A Comprehensive Guide To Managing Sensitive Teeth
Now that you understand what causes tooth sensitivity and how to tell if you have sensitive teeth, you must also know different ways to manage your sensitive teeth. You can follow various techniques to determine what works best for you.
Let’s review some of the top tips suggested by our Bridgeport dentist:
Selecting The Right Toothpaste And Toothbrush
Yes, the right toothbrush and toothpaste can make all the difference when caring for sensitive teeth. For example, when choosing the right toothbrush, it is crucial to keep a few things in mind. These include the following:
Bristle softness: Soft bristles effectively clean your teeth without being overly abrasive, which is essential for preventing further enamel erosion and gum recession
Electric vs. manual toothbrush: Electric toothbrushes with oscillating or rotating heads can provide an extra level of cleaning, and some even have modes designed for sensitive teeth
Replacement: Make sure to replace your toothbrush after every two or three months. Worn toothbrushes are not too effective at cleaning teeth
On the other hand, selecting the right toothpaste will also reap many benefits. Our Bridgeport dentist recommends you select a toothpaste specifically formulated for sensitive teeth. It is crucial to avoid toothpaste with any abrasive elements that will be harsh on your teeth.
Care For Your Gums
Your gums are just as important as your teeth, so you mustn't neglect them while caring for your oral health. Opt for a soft, waxed floss or one designed for sensitive gums. These types of floss are less likely to irritate sensitive gums and teeth.
Add regular flossing to your routine and do it at least once a day to remove any food particles from your teeth that have become stuck and stubborn. Wrap the floss around each tooth in a "C" shape and gently slide it up and down. This motion helps clean the sides of the teeth and reach just below the gum line.
There are also other ways you can care for your gums, as stated by our Bridgeport dentist, which includes:
Quitting or limiting smoking and alcohol
Using a mouthwash to rinse your mouth
Gently massaging your gums
Regularly visiting the dentist for checkups
And more
Be sure to incorporate these important habits into your daily routine to manage your sensitive teeth best.
Follow A Diet That Is Mindful Of Your Sensitive Teeth
Managing tooth sensitivity means you have to make some changes to your lifestyle that will allow you to avoid any unnecessary pain. For example, some foods you can add to your diet include dairy products, high-fiber vegetables and fruits, nuts and seeds, whole grains, and more.
On the other hand, there are some foods you must eliminate or reduce from your diet, which include the following:
Acidic foods and beverages
Sugary beverages and foods
Carbonated drinks
Extremely cold or hot food and beverages
Highly acidic fruits, such as citruses
While leaving all these things in your diet is unrealistic, moderation is key to striking the right balance. We recommend you consume everything in balance to ensure optimal health for your teeth.
Use A Desensitizing Gel or Toothpaste
Consuming hot or cold beverages can lead to teeth sensitivity, which can cause some discomfort or pain. If that is the case with you, we recommend using a desensitizing toothpaste or gel.
Desensitizing toothpaste is specially formulated to help alleviate tooth sensitivity. It contains active ingredients that block the transmission of nerve signals from the tooth's surface to the inner nerve pulp, reducing the sensation of pain or discomfort. Here are some active ingredients you must look for:
Strontium Chloride
Stannous Flouride
Potassium Nitrate
Desensitizing toothpaste should be used consistently over time for the best results. The active ingredients often take several applications to build up and provide lasting relief.
Natural Remedies Such As Oil Pulling
Many natural remedies, such as oil pulling, salt water rinses, will allow you to manage sensitive teeth. Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing a tablespoon of oil (such as coconut, sesame, or sunflower oil) around your mouth for about 15-20 minutes.
Oil pulling can promote saliva production, which can help cleanse the mouth naturally. Additionally, some people report fresher breath and a reduction in gum inflammation after consistent oil pulling. Remember that there is very little scientific evidence regarding oil pulling.
Here are some other natural remedies you can follow:
Saltwater rinses: Rinsing with warm salt water can help reduce inflammation and soothe sensitive gums
Aloe vera: Applying a small amount of aloe vera gel to sensitive areas may provide temporary relief
Chewing sugar-free gum: Chewing sugar-free gum after meals can stimulate saliva production, helping to cleanse the mouth and neutralize acids
Hydration: Drinking enough water throughout the day maintains saliva production, which naturally cleanses the mouth and supports oral health
Dental Procedures To Help With Teeth Sensitivity
Finally, if you have extreme teeth sensitivity that is difficult to manage, you can opt for dental procedures to help with it. For example, our Bridgeport dentist offers various desensitizing treatments you can opt for. You have to contact our dentist, who will let you know whether such procedures suit you.
At KWC Dental, we have various treatments that will allow you to manage your teeth. Be sure to contact us today for more information.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know how to manage sensitive teeth, implement these techniques into your daily life to elevate your oral health. Sensitive teeth can be a major problem hindering your daily functioning of eating and drinking the foods you love.
However, if this problem doesn't go away, then be sure to visit our dental clinic in Bridgeport to figure out treatments that will suit you best. For more information regarding our dental services, please book an intiial consultation with us.