Is Occupational Therapy Right for Your Child?

Tooth Sensitivity Solutions

If you experience a zinging sensation within certain areas of your teeth, you may be dealing with sensitivity issues. Tooth sensitivity is an annoyance that can cause discomfort and some pain. There are several ways you can alleviate the symptoms of sensitive teeth on your own. Here is a summary about why sensitivity occurs, how you can relieve the symptoms, and ways to keep it from getting worse.

What Causes Sensitivity?

Sensitivity occurs when the outer layer on the teeth, the enamel, is worn away. This layer covers a layer, called dentin, that consists of nerve ending tubules. When the tubules become exposed to extreme temperatures or some foods, they cause a jolting sensation that causes you to wince.

How Can You Relieve Sensitivity?

Using a toothpaste made especially for those with sensitivity issues can help numb the areas having problems. Look for a toothpaste that claims to help repair enamel. While enamel can never be replaced once it has worn away, these desensitizing toothpastes will fill in the tubules temporarily with regular use, helping to take away the feelings you are trying to remedy.

If sensitivity becomes a hindering factor to you being able to eat or drink as you had in the past, you may want to see a dentist for an evaluation. A dentist can help repair sensitive areas by using white fillings to cover the exposed dentin layer completely.

How Can You Avoid Sensitivity Or Having It Get Worse?

If you are not yet suffering from a sensitivity issue, or if you do have slight troubles that you do not want getting worse, there are several habits you can change to help keep your enamel intact.

  • Alternate the direction in which you brush your teeth every few days to help keep your enamel from premature wearing. If you brush in an up and down motion regularly, opt to try brushing in a back and forth direction instead. Using repetition will rub enamel from the surface of your teeth over time. 
  • Watch out when using whitening products. These products tend to make the enamel surface of your teeth wear, leaving you with sensitivity as a result. 
  • Avoid eating acidic foods and drinks as they will also wear away the enamel on your teeth. If you do eat acidic items, do not brush your teeth right away after consuming them as the enamel will be softened, making it easier to be brushed away.

Make sure to see a dentist, like Dr R Wilczek dentist, regularly, and let them know about any sensitivity issues you may be experiencing so they avoid the areas when doing teeth cleanings. In circumstances where the enamel is completely worn, they may recommend a gum graft or root canal to cure sensitivity you are feeling.


Share