Do you suffer from sensitive teeth?  Drinking cold drinks, eating ice cream, having hot coffees or even breathing in cold air can be extremely painful if you suffer from sensitivity.

Dentin hypersensitivity is the term used to describe sensitive teeth caused by many different factors. Some of these factors include gum recession exposing the root of the tooth, worn enamel, cavitieschips in the enamel or tooth surface and grinding of your tooth surface. Sensitive teeth can be managed and there are strategies you can use to ease the discomfort of your sensitive teeth.

What Worsens Sensitive Teeth?

Brushing too hard can exacerbate sensitive teeth, as well as brushing too frequently (eg 3 or more times per day). Using a small, soft toothbrush and brushing very gently can be gentler and less wearing on sensitive teeth. Scrubbing your teeth with a hard toothbrush can wear away tooth enamel, with is a leading cause of sensitive teeth. Untitled

Acid wear is another factor that can cause or worsen sensitive teeth. Frequently eating highly acidic foods like citrus fruits, juices, tomatoes, lollies, alcohol, soft drinks can really wear away the enamel and cause sensitive teeth.

How to Treat Sensitive Teeth

Some toothpastes contain ingredients that ease discomfort from sensitive teeth. Try using sensitive toothpaste but not rinsing out your mouth after you brush – so brush normally, spit out the excess foam and then do not rinse. This allows the formula to penetrate the tooth enamel for more effective relief.

Book in a visit to Vivid Dental today – we can assess your level of sensitive teeth and give you options for treatment.