Are your teeth sensitive to cold, heat, pressure, or sugary foods? Does it hurt to eat, drink, or brush?
Fortunately, there are easy and effective ways to reduce tooth sensitivity. Here are Atkins & Anderson Family Dentistry’s top tips for managing tender, sensitive teeth.
1. See a Dentist to Rule Out Serious Issues
Some people have sensitive teeth due to thin or weak enamel. But sensitivity is often a sign of a more serious oral health condition, including:
- Gum disease or receding gums
- Cavities or tooth decay
- Overly aggressive brushing
- Teeth grinding
- Damaged dental work
- A diet high in sugary and/or acidic foods
- Poor oral hygiene
Leaving these conditions untreated can cause serious oral health problems, so get checked out by a dentist.
2. Watch the Temperatures of Food and Drinks
Some foods and drinks can be painful to sensitive teeth. Waiting until hot drinks reach a cooler temperature will help reduce sensitivity. Avoiding frozen foods and liquids that increase tooth discomfort will also help. Acidic foods and drinks like coffee, sodas, fruit, and pickles can also increase tooth sensitivity, so consider reducing or eliminating them from your diet.
3. Use a Soft Toothbrush and Toothpaste Made for Sensitive Teeth
An easy tip to relieve sensitive teeth is to brush gently and use a soft toothbrush. Soft bristles are gentler on your enamel and gums and are less likely to cause enamel erosion.
Using toothpaste specifically created for treating tooth sensitivity is another helpful solution. These toothpastes contain fluoride that rebuilds your enamel and other ingredients that help reduce sensitivity.
Read More: Are You Using the Right Toothpaste?
4. Make a Saltwater Mouthwash
A saltwater mouthwash can help reduce tooth sensitivity quickly. Saltwater balances the pH level inside the mouth, creating an alkaline environment that reduces bacterial growth and plaque. Just mix two teaspoons of salt with a cup of warm water and rinse morning and night until sensitivity improves.
5. Use a Mouthguard at Night
Sometimes grinding your teeth at night can cause sensitive teeth. If this is an issue, your dentist can make a custom mouthguard to wear when you sleep. This guard protects against pressure and prevents tooth damage caused by nighttime teeth grinding.
6. Whiten Teeth with Care to Avoid Making Sensitivity Worse
If you suffer from tooth sensitivity from worn-down enamel or gum recession, a teeth-whitening kit may make it worse. Talk to your dentist before starting a whitening procedure.
Read More: Is Whitening Safe for My Teeth?
7. Apply Dental Varnish and Coating to Control Sensitivity
Another helpful tip is to have a dentist apply a varnish or coating to relieve sensitive teeth. A fluoride varnish helps reduce tooth sensitivity by filling tiny holes in tooth enamel. Applying bonding agents and sealant coatings strengthens enamel and dentin (the bony tissue beneath the enamel). Ask your dentist about options for reducing severe sensitivity.
Try these helpful tips for managing sensitive teeth. But keep in mind that sensitivity can also indicate serious undiagnosed oral health issues.
If you live in Bryan/College Station and need help with sensitive teeth, contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment.