Macomb County Dentist Lists Reasons for Tooth Sensitivity
Does drinking hot or cold drinks cause you to wince in pain? Or do you find brushing or flossing to be unpleasant?
Keep ready to learn why you could be experiencing this discomfort and what you can do to find relief.
- You Brush With Too Much Force
Your tooth sensitivity could be the result of brushing your teeth with too much force or using a toothbrush with bristles that are too hard . Consistently brushing in this manor can remove protective layers of your teeth and expose microscopic openings , exposing your nerves. When these openings come in contact with hot and cold temperatures or acidic foods, it will cause dental discomfort. Try to brush more gently or switch to a softer tooth brush.
- You Have Too Many Acidic Food in Your Diet
If your nerves are exposed, as mentioned above, acidic foods such as tomato sauce, citrus fruits, and many junk foods can irritate these nerve endings, causing pain. Try avoiding acidic foods and see if that stops the tooth sensitivity discomfort.
- You Grind Your Teeth in Your Sleep
Although tooth enamel is the strongest substance in your body, if you’re a tooth grinder, this can break down the enamel and expose the dentin layer, which exposes the nerve endings. Consult with your dentist about having a mouth guard made and wearing it at night to prevent grinding.
- You’re Using the Wrong Toothpaste or Mouthwash
Many toothpastes have tooth-whitening chemicals in them and some people are more sensitive to these chemicals. If you are experiencing any sensitivity, check your toothpaste to see if it contains any whitening agents. If it does, switch to a different toothpaste and see if the discomfort is relieved.
Similar to toothpastes, certain mouthwashes contain alcohol and other chemicals that can make your teeth more sensitive. Use a neutral fluoride rinse or skip the mouthwash altogether.
- You Have Periodontal Disease
Receding gums, which is a symptom of periodontal disease (gum disease) can cause tooth sensitivity while brushing or eating and drinking. If periodontal disease is the problem, it is important to treat the disease as soon as possible before more serious problems develop such as damage to the bone and even tooth loss.
- Plaque Build Up
Plaque can cause damage to the tooth enamel, exposing the dentin layer and nerve endings. Be sure to have a professional cleaning every 6 months to remove any plaque build up.
- You Recently had Dental Work Done
If you have recently had work done on your teeth, it is not unusual to experience tooth sensitivity. However, experiencing sensitivity long after the procedure could be the sign of an infection.
Looking for a Macomb County Dentist to Help Treat Your Tooth Sensitivity?
If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, the best way to determine the cause of your discomfort is scheduling a dental exam.
If you are looking for a dentist in the Macomb County area, Dr Antolak from The Gentle Dentist may just be your new dental home.
Contact Dr Antolak by Calling 586-247-3500