Tooth sensitivity is a common problem faced by many of us. If hot, cold, sweet, very acidic foods and drinks or breathing in cold atmosphere makes your teeth or a tooth sensitive or painful then you have sensitive teeth.
Sensitivity often occurs when the layer of teeth beneath the enamel called the dentin becomes exposed due to erosion of the enamel or recession of the gums which might cause sharp sensation in your teeth.
What are the causes of sensitivity?
- Excessive brushing – brushing with excess force or using hard bristled tooth brush causes erosion of enamel, which leads to sensitivity.
- Acidic food – acid from certain foods strips the minerals from the enamel.
- Bruxism – Grinding teeth at night or during the day consciously or sub consciously causes sensitivity.
- Gum diseases- Receding gums exposes inner layers of your teeth. They will definitely cause sensitive teeth and can also be a cause of underlying gum disease.
- Use of mouthwash and tooth whitening pastes- Excessive use of mouthwash and tooth whitening pastes result in sensitivity due to the presence of chemicals and formulas.
- Cracked tooth – A cracked or chipped tooth exposes dentinal tubules which might cause acute pain or sensitivity.
- Fractured / decayed filling- Presence of a fracture or decay around a previously done filling can cause sensitivity and also fillings need to be replaced.
How to treat sensitive teeth?
- Avoid brushing hard –avoid using hard bristled tooth brush.
- Avoid acidic food and drinks as they tend to attack the enamel.
- Use of mouth guards during the night help you to avoid sensitivity due to grinding subconsciously.
- Check for gum diseases- accumulation of tartar or plaque pulls back gums exposing inner layersof teeth. Get your teeth regularly cleaned.
- Get your cracked or fractured tooth treated whenever you notice pain.
- Use specially made tooth pastes for sensitive teeth.
- Try a fluoride treatment- fluorides strengthen your enamel and act as a buffer between irritating substances and your tooth which avoids sensitivity.
How to prevent tooth sensitivity from getting worse?
- Brushing- daily twice a day with a toothpaste that does not have a high level of abrasives can help reduce the chance of tooth sensitivity.
- Flossing- flossing gets rid of plaque on the gum line and between the teeth.
- Diet- follow a diet low in acid, since acidic food harms the enamel, our daily diet should consist of food which are less acidic.
If you are dealing with sensitive teeth, you can approach us by finding our contact details below
Dr. Krinita Motwani
Khar west, Mumbai.
Mbl : 9820280343.
Email: drkrinitamotwani@gmail.com
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