No one like dealing with tooth sensitivity. The throbbing that comes from cold or hot foods, sugary sweet and maybe even the weather can be unbearable. Make sure you talk with your dentist to determine what is causing your tooth sensitivity. It may be receding gum lines, or brushing too hard and from side-to-side, a cracked tooth or filling, gum disease or tooth grinding.
Teeth are sensitive because their protective outer layers—enamel over the crown, or cementum over the root—have worn away. That exposes your tooth’s dentin, which is full of tiny tubes with sensitive nerve endings running through them.
You can help take care of your tooth sensitivity with sensitive toothpaste. Some pastes contain an active ingredient called potassium nitrate, which helps to block the tiny tubules in the dentin.
You look into using a soft toothbrush on your sensitive teeth. Also make sure that you aren’t brushing too hard, hard brushing can actually wear away enamel, increasing your sensitivity of your teeth.
You will also need to try and avoid acidic food and drink. Exposure to pop, oranges, fruit juices and various other foods can reduce your enamel.
Also, talking to your dentist about ways to professionally deal with tooth sensitivity. Desensitizing agents like fluoride varnish or even plastic resins can be applied to the sensitive areas of your teeth.
Having sensitive teeth isn’t fun, but have no fear, there are ways you can alleviate the pain.