
How to Treat Tooth Pain and Sensitivity
Table of Contents

Do you have tooth pain and sensitivity when you drink something hot or cold? If they do, you could be suffering from tooth sensitivity. The tingling sensation budding from your teeth, or the pain, that comes from eating sour or sweet foods, or even exposure to cold air can be indicative of tooth sensitivity. For tooth pain relief, it is important to know about the tooth sensitivity causes and treatments. Let us begin by first taking a look at why your teeth are sensitive:
Damaged enamel can lead to tooth sensitivity
The enamel is a hard, protective layer that sits on your teeth. It is the white part of your teeth and the only part that is visible to the naked eye. When this layer becomes damaged, the underparts of your teeth start being exposed to outside elements. So, the first main factor to consider when you’re wondering what causes teeth to become sensitive is the damage to your enamel due to daily wear and tear. In this case, you can prevent further damage and get some relief from sensitive teeth pain by monitoring some of your habits. You can do the following:
- Avoid brushing too hard: One of the reasons why your enamel is damaged is because you may be brushing your teeth a bit too hard. The goal of brushing your teeth is to get rid of the plaque – not the enamel! By brushing side-to-side, at the gum line, you end up eroding the enamel. Instead, brush at a 45-degree angle with a soft-bristled brush. Your teeth will be clean and your enamel will be intact.
- Avoid acidic food and drinks: Another factor that could be causing your enamel to erode is an abundance of acidic food and drinks in your diet. Soda, high-sugar carbs, and candy attack your enamel and make it worse for wear. You can substitute these snacks with cheese, fruits and vegetables that are rich in fibre, milk, and yoghurt. These snacks are not only healthy, but they also help keep your mouth stay moist. As a result, you can fight off bacteria and acid that cause tooth decay. This is one of the most well-known natural remedies for sensitive teeth treatment as it allows your enamel to be strong again. If you do end up eating acidic food, wait an hour and then brush your teeth.
- Stop grinding your teeth: Stress and anxiety manifest in many different ways. Grinding your teeth is one of them (and it’s very common). You may not realise it, but you might just be in the habit of clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth. This is bad as it ends up eroding your enamel. Even though stopping this does not provide immediate relief for sensitive teeth, it can certainly help you head down that path, and avoid further damage.
- Do not bleach too often: People usually bleach their teeth regularly to keep them white. However, bleaching too often can result in enamel damage, which then leads to tooth sensitivity. It is better to avoid doing this regularly and to consult your dentist how often is too often.
Other factors that can lead to tooth sensitivity
Developing tooth sensitivity is not always reliant on your lifestyle or diet. Other health factors can play a role in the pain you feel when you chomp down on your favourite food. Here are some things to watch out for:
- Naturally shrinking gums: It is natural for your gums to shrink a little, especially after you hit your 40s. However, this exposes parts of your roots and enamel more than they were before. As a result, you develop tooth sensitivity. If your gums look like they are receding, consult with your doctor. It could be indicative of an underlying gum disease or other health concerns.
- Gum disease: The buildup of tartar and plaque can lead to gum disease. When this occurs, your gums end up pulling back and making the bony support of your teeth much weaker (leading to loose teeth). This can also lead to tooth sensitivity. Getting regular cleaning or scaling sessions performed by the dentist can help you prevent this disease from occurring.
- Cracked teeth: when you hurt your teeth or crack them, the injury can go all the way down to the root of your teeth. As a result, you end up registering pain when your tooth is exposed to cold things. This is also a cause of tooth sensitivity and can be repaired by your dentist.
How to treat sensitive teeth?
There are ways to get relief from aching teeth and gums. Once you consult with your dentist, you may be given any of the following treatment plans, depending on how bad the situation is:
- You may be asked to use a special toothpaste that is designed for sensitive teeth.
- You may be asked to use a fluoride gel to cover the root exposure or damaged parts of the enamel.
- You may be given fillings to cover the exposed root.
- You may be given sealants.
- You may be asked to use desensitizing pastes (that are not used while brushing) periodically.
- In extreme cases, you may have to undergo a root canal procedure.
The best treatment for sensitive teeth generally depends on how damaged your enamel is. More often than not, for mild cases, using a special toothpaste and changing your diet is the most helpful thing you can do for yourself.Of course, you must not take any measures before discussing the same with your dentist. Professionals know best, no matter how much you may read online![/av_textblock] [av_promobox button='yes' label='Book A Dental Consultation' link='manually,https://www.medibuddy.in/?utm_source=blog_cta&utm_medium=blog' link_target='_blank' color='blue' custom_bg='#f00' custom_font='#ffffff' size='large' icon_select='no' icon='ue800' font='entypo-fontello' box_color='' box_custom_font='#ffffff' box_custom_bg='#444444' box_custom_border='#333333' admin_preview_bg=''] Oral hygiene is often overlooked, but it’s one area that is susceptible to diseases and infections. Schedule a dental appointment if you have the slightest pain or any form of discomfort.[/av_promobox]