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5 Ways to Beat Tooth Sensitivity

Sensitivity

Several factors could trigger tooth sensitivity discomfort, including receding gum, tooth decay, or genetics. Below are five tips that can help to reduce tooth sensitivity.

  1. Use toothpaste that is targeted to help reduce tooth sensitivity

There are plenty of brands, such as Colgate, Crest, Arm & Hammer, and Sensodyne, that offer toothpastes geared to aid reduction in tooth sensitivity. Look for the ingredient potassium nitrate, which helps combat tooth sensitivity and lessen discomfort. Combine your toothpaste with a mouth rinse with stannous fluoride to desensitize your teeth even further.

      2. Alter the way that you brush your teeth

The way you brush and the type of toothbrush you use can increase your teeth sensitivity, so it’s critical you take a look at your brushing habits. Be sure you’re using a soft-bristled toothbrush while gently brushing your teeth. Aggressive brushing with hard bristles will contribute to receding gums, exposing your sensitive teeth and wearing away enamel, increasing your teeth sensitivity. Or, you can opt for an electric toothbrush with soft bristles” just leave the brush on your teeth and let the brush do the work for you!

      3. Avoid acidic foods and drinks

Acidic foods and drinks, such as coffee and citrus fruits, can dissolve your enamel resulting in tooth sensitivity. Try to avoid acidic foods altogether, or try to limit your exposure to these foods and drink acidic beverages through a straw to limit their contact on your teeth. Also, drink a glass of milk after consuming these foods to help neutralize the acid.

        4. Wear a mouthguard at night when you sleep

Do you grind your teeth at night? This type of trauma can wear away your tooth enamel, making your teeth feel sensitive and sore. At our dental practice, we make customized mouth guards, which are molded to your teeth, cushioning and protecting your teeth from the nightly grind.

Not sure if you grind your teeth at night? Symptoms such as constant, severe headaches and unexplained jaw pain are good clues to look out for. Contact your dentist to determine if a mouthguard is the best option to get rid of your tooth sensitivity.

        5. See your dentist for regular check ups

Be sure to visit every six months to ensure your dental experts can develop a customized treatment plan to get rid of your teeth sensitivity.

Keeping your smile healthy well into the future starts with creating healthy at-home habits followed by regular visits to Shine DDS twice a year. To learn more about your treatment options, call Shine DDS to schedule your next cleaning and examination with Dr. Shine.

Author
Evelyn Shine Dentist

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