How to reduce tooth sensitivity

Sensitive teeth can be an irritant at the best of times. They can make drinking and eating unpleasant, become aggravated by things like sweet or sour food, or even just cold air. If you are really suffering from sensitive teeth, it’s probably a good idea to speak to your dentist about the issue. However, there are many reasons why you may be suffering from sensitive teeth, and often finding out the problem will lead to the solution.

Taking care of your enamel

The most common reason for sensitive teeth is due to the fact that the hard outer layer of your teeth, your enamel, has been worn away. This means that the protective outer layer of your teeth has worn down, exposing nerve endings and causing discomfort.

To prevent this from happening, or getting any worse, try not to brush your teeth as hard. Brushing with a heavy hand does get rid of plaque, but can also wear away your enamel, especially at the gum line. Brushing at a 45-degree angle with a soft bristled brush will be much more effective in keeping our enamel strong and mouth clean.

Avoiding acidic foods and drinks

Of course, sugary and acidic food and drinks are a major cause of problems with teeth, including sensitivity, tooth decay and cavities. Therefore it is essential we monitor our intake of sugary foods so we can reduce the risk of these problems developing.

Instead of snacking on sugary foods, try supplementing them through fibre rich fruit and vegetables, or dairy based products such as cheese, milk and yogurts. These products will moisten your mouth and help with getting rid of harmful bacteria and acids that dissolve through your teeth.

Grinding or clenching your teeth

The grinding of your teeth can cause severe damage to your teeth and their enamel. Teeth grinding can be a result of too much stress, or something that occurs during sleep. If you can’t reduce the amount you grind your teeth, perhaps get in contact with your dentist regarding a mouth guard or splint to protect your teeth.

If the problem is still present you may need to talk about changing the position of your teeth or a muscle relaxant to reduce the frequency of the grinding.

Shrinking gums

As you get older, your gums will start to shrink away from your teeth. This is completely natural, and usually starts around the age of 40. So it could just be that your gums are starting wear down, revealing your tooth roots and pulling away from your teeth. The roots of your teeth have no layer of enamel to protect them, so they are much more prone to becoming sensitive and inflamed than the rest of your tooth.

Gum disease

Gum disease is the result of a build-up of plaque and tartar wearing away at your enamel and pulling your gums back. If left untreated, disease can set in and wear away at the bone support of your tooth. Smoking exacerbates this problem by making it harder for wounds to heal, creating more time for gum disease to set in.

To treat gum disease, your dentist may need to do a scale and polish, scraping of tartar below the gum line.

Are you looking to reduce the sensitivity of your teeth?  Why not contact Ascent Dental Care Solihull today to see how we can help you!

Looking for more information?

Require a dental appointment, or are looking for cosmetic surgery such as teeth whitening in Solihull, why not contact Ascent Dental Care Solihull today, for a tailored and friendly service.