How to Reduce Tooth Sensitivity
Steps to Reduce Tooth Sensitivity
Do you avoid eating hot or cold foods because they make your teeth hurt? What about sweet or sour foods? If you do, you probably suffer from tooth sensitivity. After figuring out what’s causing your sensitivity, these are steps you can take at home to reduce it.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
Sometimes sensitivity is caused by daily habits, but other times, it can be a sign of a bigger problem such as:
- Naturally Shrinking Gums: Once you reach 40 years old, your gums could show signs of wear-and-tear and start pulling away from your teeth, uncovering tooth roots in the process. Without enamel to protect them, those roots become very sensitive compared to the rest of your tooth.
- Gum Disease: Gums can pull back due to built up plaque and tartar. If it worsens, gum disease can ruin the bony support of your teeth. Smoking makes this worse, so you should quit before you do any further damage to your mouth.
- Cracked Tooth or Filling: If you break a tooth, the crack can extend all the way down to the root causing pain when you eat or drink cold items.
How Do I Reduce Tooth Sensitivity?
Protecting your enamel is the key to reducing sensitivity. Use these practices to help your enamel stay strong.
- Don’t Brush Too Hard: Only use a soft-bristled brush at a 45-degree angle to your gum when brushing your teeth.
- Avoid Acidic Foods: Snack on fiber-rich foods and dairy products instead of sugary and sticky sweets.
- Unclench Your Teeth: Grinding kills your enamel, so avoid it as best as you can. If you grind your teeth while sleeping, have your dentist fit you for a night guard.
- Stop Bleaching: Don’t let your desire for white teeth destroy your enamel. Talk to your dentist about safe bleaching habits.
Ronald Murphy Dentistry can treat your tooth sensitivity and provide you with tips on how to prevent future problems. We provide all of our patients with personalized, gentle dental care, so everyone walks out of our Batavia office with healthier, brighter smiles. To schedule an appointment with us, call 630-879-7642.