We’ve all been there: biting into an ice cream cone or sipping a hot coffee, only to feel a sharp jolt of pain in your teeth. Ouch! If you’re someone who suffers from tooth sensitivity, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common dental issues out there, but the good news is that there are plenty of ways to ease the discomfort and get back to enjoying your favorite foods and drinks. At Dental Comfort Associates, we’re here to help you find the best solutions for your sensitive teeth.
What Is Teeth Sensitivity?
Teeth sensitivity, also known as dentin hypersensitivity, happens when the protective enamel on your teeth wears down, or your gums recede, exposing the sensitive part of your tooth called the dentin. When exposed, the nerves in the dentin become more sensitive to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks. If this sounds like something you’ve experienced, you know how much it can put a damper on enjoying your daily meals and drinks.
Symptoms of Teeth Sensitivity
Teeth sensitivity can show up in a few different ways, so here’s what to watch for:
- Sharp pain or discomfort when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sweet items
- Discomfort during brushing or flossing
- Pain when inhaling cold air
- Lingering soreness after consuming foods that trigger sensitivity
If any of this sounds familiar, it’s time to tackle the problem head-on!
Best Home Care Solutions for Sensitive Teeth
While professional treatments can help, a lot of the success in managing teeth sensitivity starts at home. Here’s how you can take control of your sensitivity:
- Use a Desensitizing Toothpaste: Specially formulated desensitizing toothpastes contain compounds that help block the transmission of pain signals from the surface of your teeth to the nerves inside. Look for a product with potassium nitrate or strontium chloride.
- Switch to a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush: Hard-bristled brushes can further irritate sensitive teeth and gums. Go for a soft-bristled brush and be gentle when brushing to avoid causing more damage.
- Brush Properly (But Not Too Hard!): Overzealous brushing can wear down enamel and make sensitivity worse. Brush gently in small circles instead of harsh back-and-forth motions.
- Avoid Acidic Foods and Drinks: Citrus fruits, carbonated drinks, and vinegar-based foods can erode enamel, making sensitivity worse. If you can’t avoid them, try rinsing your mouth with water after consuming them.
Professional Treatments to Combat Sensitivity
If home remedies aren’t quite cutting it, don’t worry—your dentist can help! Here are some treatments that can provide longer-lasting relief:
- Fluoride Treatments: A fluoride treatment applied directly to your teeth by your dentist can strengthen enamel and reduce pain. This is a quick and easy way to reduce sensitivity and protect your teeth.
- Dental Sealants: If your sensitivity is especially bad, your dentist might apply a protective coating to your teeth to shield the exposed dentin and reduce sensitivity.
- Desensitizing Agents: In some cases, your dentist may apply a special desensitizing agent to your teeth to block pain signals directly at the nerve level.
- Gum Grafting: If gum recession is a cause of your sensitivity, a gum graft procedure can help restore your gums and reduce pain by covering the exposed roots of your teeth.
- Root Canal Treatment: For extreme cases where other treatments haven’t worked, your dentist might recommend a root canal. This treatment eliminates the source of pain by removing the nerves inside the tooth.
Preventing Future Sensitivity
Once your sensitivity is under control, it’s important to maintain good habits to keep things in check:
- Wear a Mouthguard if You Grind Your Teeth: Teeth grinding can wear down enamel and cause sensitivity. A custom-fit mouthguard can protect your teeth while you sleep.
- Maintain a Regular Dental Routine: Continue brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush, flossing, and using desensitizing toothpaste to keep your teeth healthy and strong.
Take Control of Your Comfort!
Dealing with sensitive teeth doesn’t have to be a constant struggle. By adopting the right home care habits and seeking professional treatments when needed, you can manage sensitivity and get back to enjoying the foods and drinks you love. If you’re ready to find the solution that works best for you, give us a call at (201) 246-1233 or schedule an appointment with us today. We’ll help you put sensitivity behind you, so you can smile confidently again!