What Causes Sensitive Teeth and How to Solve the Problem
Sensitive teeth pose many problems. First, they make it difficult for people to enjoy food. Second, they cause irritation and pain. Mostly this pain is temporary but it is severe while it lasts. In this article, we attempt to understand what causes sensitive teeth and how to protect them.
Here Are Some Common Reasons That Cause Teeth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity, in most cases, is a direct result of eroded enamel, but eroded tooth enamel isn’t the only culprit. Let us take a look at some of the common causes of sensitive teeth.
Teeth Whitening Products
Teeth whitening products have become ubiquitous — you can find them just about anywhere and everywhere. Most people use these products without doing any research. Thus, most people do not know that teeth whitening products contain peroxide, which is a tooth irritant and a common cause of tooth sensitivity.
Tooth Demineralization
Tooth demineralization is a condition often caused by excessive consumption of acidic foods and sugary drinks. When a tooth demineralizes, the tooth enamel breaks down, thereby leaving the entire tooth exposed as well as susceptible to plaque deposition. Unfortunately, enamel does not grow back and thus, people should try their best to avoid this condition by staying away from sugary drinks and acidic foods. Stay away from acidic foods, such as pickles and citrus fruits, as well as acidic drinks, such as tea.
Improper Oral Hygiene
While most people understand the importance of maintaining proper oral hygiene, they make certain mistakes that end up harming the enamel. For instance, using a brush with hard bristles, roughly brushing one’s teeth and irregular flossing are common habits that promote enamel damage.
Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding is not an uncommon habit — many people around the world wake up in the morning with a toothache because they have the habit of grinding their teeth while sleeping. Teeth grinding does not only cause tooth and jaw ache but also causes sensitivity by damaging the tooth enamel.
Here’s How to Solve the Problem of Sensitive Teeth
Given the advancements in the field of dentistry, it has now become possible to solve the problem of sensitive teeth. Here’s what you can do to protect sensitive teeth.
Consider Using Fluoride Gels
Flouride vanishes and fluoride gels are concentrated fluorides that are applied directly to the teeth. These fluorides strengthen both dentin as well as enamel and reduce teeth sensitivity.
Try Using a Bonding Agent
If the teeth sensitivity you are experiencing is a result of exposed teeth roots, you will get relief from using a bonding agent. Bonding agents are applied to the exposed part of the root and significantly reduce sensitivity and pain.
Dental Sealants Are Another Effective Solution
Dental sealants are resin coatings that dentists apply to teeth to reduce sensitivity. Unfortunately, dental sealants only provide temporary relief from the problem. However, they last a long time. So, get your dentist to check them every once in a short while and you should be okay for years.
Use a Mouthguard
If teeth grinding is the culprit behind your sensitive teeth, you will benefit from using a mouthguard. Though you can buy a mouthguard at any store if you want your mouthguard to fit perfectly, ask your dentist to make you a custom one.
If Nothing Else Works, Try Root Canal
If you have tried everything and nothing has worked, try root canal as your last resort. The root canal is a technique that dentists use to remove the nerve or the pulp causing tooth sensitivity.
In Conclusion
Teeth sensitivity is a fairly common problem that affects millions of people around the world. The good thing is this problem can be treated using several different options. We hope this article has given you some ideas about what you can do to protect sensitive teeth.
For more information regarding sensitive teeth, please give Dr. Apsey of Smile Brightly Dental a call today! We are located in Warren, MI and we can be reached at 586-573-7700!