Do Your Sensitive Teeth Cause You Problems?

Mind is All

If you suffer from sensitive teeth, you know that this can be a very painful problem. If your teeth are painful, you should see a dentist to determine why you are suffering. Unfortunately, there are a number of reasons that tooth sensitivity can occur. Weak enamel is sometimes caused by genetics.  This can be a factor in sensitivity. Sensitive teeth an also be caused by gum recession.  When your gums recede it exposes the soft dentin of the root on your tooth.  Ouch! Age can also be a factor in tooth sensitivity along with cavities.

You may be told to use sensitive specific toothpaste such as Sensodyne Toothpaste, or Pronamel Sensitive. These toothpastes block the little tubes that are in your teeth naturally. You will need to continue using these toothpastes for as long as you don't want sensitivity. Whitening toothpastes and hydrogen peroxide whitening can increase tooth sensitivity so please avoid these.

When choosing a toothbrush make sure to choose a soft or ultra soft bristle toothbrush. If you brush your teeth with medium and hard bristle brushes you run the risk of wearing down the gums.  This ultimately exposes the root dentin. The Enamel of our teeth is very hard, dentin on the other hand is soft in comparison. Brushing dentin too hard, can wear it down over time causing sensitivity.

Proper brushing can help to decrease the likelihood of tooth sensitivity. Make sure to brush your teeth with the bristles of the brush at a 45-degree angle to the teeth. Stop using back and forth motions; instead use small circular motions. This reduces wear on any exposed dentin. Electric toothbrushes can be a great option for you.

Always avoid mouthwashes with high alcohol. Alcohol in mouthwash dries out your mouth and can damage soft tissues over time.  Flossing is very important to the health of your teeth and gums. When it comes to flossing, just do it.  It doesn't matter if you used waxed or unwaxed floss.

Dentist must see a patient that has sensitive teeth.  It is very important to your teeth and gums to determine what may be going on. Although a toothpaste change may help, you should still get checked out to make sure you don't have a larger problem beginning.