Sensitive teeth can be a huge problem to deal with. In fact, there are a number of things that can make sensitivity worse. This could be anything from food to brushing. So it can be a minor issue or a very big problem pretty quickly. And, although desensitising toothpastes can help ease the pain, you might wonder how to relieve sensitive teeth naturally and skip the pain next time. There are a couple of changes to your routine that can make a big difference in how your teeth feel, so you can get back to your normal self.
Understanding what is causing the pain will be the first step at winning a victory against sensitivity. It can be the result of any number of dental issues, including genetics. Focusing on the cause of your tooth senstivity can better your understanding of how to treat it and prevent it from coming back.
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), tooth sensitivity is usually triggered when eating hot or cold foods, and can be caused by:
If you think your sensitive teeth are the result of tooth decay, disease or infection, then you should see your dentist. However, issues like soft enamel can be habit-based or even hereditary, making it easier to wear it down. So you may be able to treat sensitivity at home. The best person to speak to regarding sensitivity is your dentist.
Specifically amending some of your usual habits could make a difference in how your teeth feel on a daily basis. Try these three tips for healthier, pain-free teeth:
Brushing your teeth will definitely keep your teeth healthy, but using a hard toothbrush or highly abrasive toothpaste can aggravate sensitive teeth. You should be using a soft-medium bristled toothbrush. Plaque is soft and doesn’t need a lot of force to remove. You should instead use little circular motions gently and across the biting surfaces of the teeth, rather than brushing erractically.
Certain foods, like carbonated drinks, coffee, citrus fruits and even yogurt, can cause sensitivity. This is because acidic products can lead to the wearing away of tooth enamel. Consider avoiding them altogether, and if you must have your daily soda, do so by drinking through a straw to limit the contact the liquid has with your teeth. Additionally, don’t brush your teeth right after eating or drinking acidic foods; acid softens your enamel and makes your teeth even more sensitive if brushed against too quickly. Instead, have a glass of water to help neutralise the acid.
Do you grind your teeth at night? If you suffer with sensitive teeth, you might, even if you don’t realise it. Teeth grinding can wear away tooth enamel so they feel sore and sensitive the next day. A mouth guard can help you keep your teeth and muscles protected whilst grinding. They are very simple to make and will be done by your dentist.
If you suffer from sensitive teeth, toothpaste isn’t your only option to enjoy your favorite foods once again. In fact, you can start today to take steps toward a healthier mouth and less sensitive teeth in natural, simple ways. By caring for your pearly whites gently and regularly, you’ll focus on treating the cause of sensitive teeth, rather than simply reacting to the pain.
