Have you ever experienced a sudden, sharp pain while drinking a hot cup of coffee or eating a cold ice cream? One that shoots right through your tooth into your gum? Or aches for a significant amount of time afterwards? If this regularly happens to you whilst eating and drinking, then it’s safe to say you may have tooth sensitivity.
Here at The Dental Centre Oakdale, we strive to support our patients and their smiles, especially those experiencing dental issues, regardless of the problem’s size or severity. That’s why we’ve put together a quick guide on how to manage tooth sensitivity!
What is Tooth Sensitivity?
The first step in managing tooth sensitivity is to gain a better understanding of it. Sensitivity can happen for a variety of reasons (see our list below!), but most commonly stems from diet and oral hygiene issues. Lots of foods that we consume contain acids and sugars, and when consumed in large amounts over time, can actually break down the enamel of your teeth.
Once this enamel wears down, it exposes the more sensitive parts of your tooth, such as the nerves, making the tooth vulnerable to external factors, including temperature fluctuations.
Here’s our ultimate list of tooth sensitivity offenders:
- Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled brush
- Teeth grinding
- Acidic and sugary foods
- Chipped or worn fillings
- Cavities and/or dental decay
- Teeth whitening products
What Can You Do For Tooth Sensitivity?
If you suddenly experience sensitive teeth, the first thing we recommend is to visit your local dentist in Oakdale. Although you may first think to reach for a sensitivity toothpaste, it’s far more important to address the root of the issue before it becomes a bigger, more expensive problem.
A quick check-up at The Dental Centre Oakdale allows us to assess your oral health and determine whether the issue can be managed at home or requires further investigation. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!
At-Home Care for Tooth Sensitivity
Most cases of tooth sensitivity can be managed by addressing any lifestyle choices that could be affecting your oral health. This could involve swapping processed foods for whole food options and limiting sugar consumption, or if you are a smoker, we always recommend seeking cessation advice to help you curb the habit. Anything you can do to support your oral health will help your sensitivity in the long term:
- Switching to a sensitive toothpaste like Sensodyne
- Custom night mouthguards if your sensitivity is caused by tooth grinding
- Gum and hygiene treatments if the issue stems from gum disease or recession
- Fluoride treatments to strengthen your enamel and reduce pain
Our ultimate advice for tooth sensitivity? Speak to a professional and get the right diagnosis.
If you’re dealing with sensitive teeth, don’t suffer in silence. Book a consultation at The Dental Centre Oakdale today!
