Don’t Ignore Tooth Sensitivity

Do you suffer from sensitive teeth that cause you pain when you brush or drink cold or hot beverages? Do you sometimes feel a sharp ache when you bite into certain foods, or experience discomfort when you’re lying on your face? If your teeth are causing you unexpected and perhaps unexplained pain, it may be tempting to just ignore the problem – especially if its’ relatively short-lived. However, you should never just ignore tooth sensitivity, since that pain could be your teeth’s way of sending you a message.

Are You Brushing Wrong?

Believe it or not, it is possible to overdo the brushing and flossing. If you brush too hard, or use the wrong brush, you could be wearing down the enamel on your teeth. That could leave exposed nerves that are then susceptible to pain from cold beverages, acidic foods or drinks, and so on. Try a softer brush and be gentle with your teeth.

Do You Grind Your Teeth?

Tooth grinding can be a serious concern, but it can be difficult to detect – especially if you grind your teeth while you sleep. That grinding can be just as bad or worse than excessive brushing, leaving enamel worn down. The good news is that there are dental guards to protect you from grinding.

Is Your Tooth-Whitening Toothpaste at Fault?

It could just be that you’re one of the many people who are sensitive to the chemicals used in tooth-whitening toothpastes. If you notice sensitivity after you brush, try choosing a non-whitening toothpaste to see if the pain goes away.

Is it Your Diet?

Acidic foods can often cause sensitivity for those whose dental habits have left nerves exposed. In fact, that sensitivity could be the first sign that other dental problems are at play. Consult with your dentist if acidic foods and drinks start to become a problem.

Could Decay Be a Problem?

Tooth decay happens to almost everybody. When it happens near fillings, that can lead to bacterial problems and acid buildup. Your dentist may need to replace your fillings to relieve the pain and restore protection for that area of your mouth.

Is Gum Disease an Issue?

Gum disease often leads to gum recession – and those receding gums leave more of the tooth exposed and increase the potential for sensitivity. If you notice gum recession, talk to your dentist about solutions that can help to protect those teeth and avoid sensitivity.

Is Your Tooth Injured?

Cracks, chips, and other injuries can make teeth more vulnerable to a whole host of problems – including sensitivity. Consult with your dentist to discuss possible solutions that can restore injured teeth.

The fact is that no one should have to live with tooth sensitivity. And while some modest lifestyle changes may be enough to correct some sensitivity issues, many of these problems can only be addressed in consultation with your dentist. So, if you experience tooth pain or sensitivity, don’t ignore it. Schedule an appointment with your dental professional and get the relief and assistance you need as soon as possible.