How do you deal with tooth sensitivity?

Have you felt discomfort in your teeth when drinking something cold or eating ice cream this summer? Does it hurt when you brush your teeth or floss? There is no doubt, your symptoms are the reflection of a problem of tooth sensitivity, a temporary pain caused by the exposure of the dentin to external stimuli such as temperature changes, drinking beverages, and acidic foods, brushing your teeth too hard or grinding your teeth, among others triggers.

Some of the other triggers for sensitive teeth can include:

• Eating hot and cold food (ice cream, tea)
• Sugary foods (Soda, syrup)
• Candies, popcorn, and other hard foods
• Brushing your teeth
• Using Mouthwash

Tooth sensitivity can be quite bothersome. In most cases, it is just a slight pain that goes away after a few minutes. But in a severe case, tooth sensitivity can lead to extremely painful episodes. And it may also be a sign of further dental problems too.

Causes of sensitivity:

Dental sensitivity may be temporary or more permanent. The cause may be small cracks or tooth decay. It can also be caused by exposed tooth root surfaces due to gum recession. Those exposed surfaces are sensitive. Gum recession can be caused by a wrong brushing technique or by suffering from periodontitis.

If the dental sensitivity is not treated, it prevents carrying out proper oral hygiene and can lead to other pathologies such as tooth decay and gum problems. To prevent symptoms, take note of this guide on how to deal with sensitive teeth.

1. Use the right toothbrush

It is advisable to brush your teeth with a soft bristle brush with rounded ends and a smooth surface to prevent abrasion of the enamel and retraction of gums.

2. Buy correct toothpaste

Use a non-abrasive gel or paste, use dental floss for the spaces between the tightest teeth, use a tongue cleaner and change the brush every three months.

3. Avoid certain foods

Avoid eating acidic foods that can damage tooth enamel, such as fruit juices, wine, salad dressings with vinegar and soda. You should also avoid sudden changes in temperature in food and drinks.

4. Stop putting objects in mouth

Do not introduce foreign objects in the mouth that can cause wear on the teeth, such as pencils, pens, nails, etc.

5. Try special mouthwashes

Use mouth rinses specially designed to help reduce tooth sensitivity. In addition to relieving the discomfort of the teeth, they help to strengthen the enamel.

6. Treat with fluoride

In some cases, a dentist recommends applying a fluoride varnish to protect your teeth. This method temporarily reduces sensitivity, in addition to strengthening the teeth.

7. Use a mouth guard

In the case of the sensitivity caused by bruxism, the most effective treatment is to use a night splint during the hours of sleep that protect the teeth from contact.

8. Visit a dentist

If the discomfort continues and is progressive, it is important to go to the dentist to rule out more serious problems that can lead to severe oral affections. They may be able to treat dental problems that could be forming.