If you experience a sharp pain in your mouth when you eat of drink something very hot, sweet, cold, or acidic, you probably have sensitive teeth. Tooth sensitivity is more than just an annoyance. It can make eating and drinking difficult, and it could also be a sign of a more serious underlying problem, such as gum disease or tooth decay. Continue reading below to learn how to get rid of tooth sensitivity in Marble Falls.
Why Do You Have Sensitive Teeth?
Teeth can become sensitive for a variety of reasons, such as:
- Teeth whitening. Peroxide, the main ingredient in many common whitening solutions, can irritate the nerves in the tooth.
- Not flossing often enough. When you go without flossing, plaque forms between the teeth which can cause cavities and gum disease. Both of these conditions can contribute to sensitive teeth.
- Brushing too vigorously. Using too much force or a toothbrush with hard bristles can erode the enamel, the hard shell on the outside of your teeth that protects the sensitive nerves underneath. This is why most dentists will recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Teeth grinding. Do you wake up in the morning with a sore jaw or extra sensitive teeth? That’s a sign that you may be grinding or clenching your teeth while you sleep. Teeth grinding can wear down your enamel, and it may even cause painful chips or cracks in your teeth.
- Acidic foods and drinks. Regularly consuming acidic items like soda, pickles, and tomatoes can gradually eat away at your enamel, revealing the sensitive layer of dentin underneath.
How Can You Get Rid of Tooth Sensitivity?
There are a variety of dental treatments available that can help with tooth sensitivity, including:
- Fluoride treatment. Fluoride is a mineral that strengthens your enamel and dentin to protect against sensitivity. Your dentist can apply a fluoride varnish in the office or prescribe an at-home fluoride treatment.
- Dental sealants. Sealants consist of a thin, plastic-like resin coating that is painted on the chewing surfaces of your back teeth to keep out bacteria that create cavities and cause sensitivity. Your dentist can apply sealants to your teeth, but they wear off after a few years, so they will need to be reapplied.
- Nightguards. Also called mouthguards, nightguards are used to treat nighttime teeth grinding. Simply wear these plastic trays over your teeth to prevent harmful contact while you sleep. Your dentist can make a custom-fitted nightguard that fits you comfortably.
- Root canal. If the above options don’t soothe your discomfort, a root canal may be the only option. Although they sound scary, they actually aren’t painful at all. In fact, they relieve you of your pain. Your dentist will remove the pulp and nerves of your tooth that are giving you so much trouble.
Tooth sensitivity is a fairly common issue. If you are currently suffering through it, you don’t have to. Talk to your dentist today about treatment options.
About the Author
Dr. Greg Ritchie earned his dental degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio, and since then has accrued more than 18 years of experience practicing dentistry. He and his team take the time to get to know each patient in order to develop a personalized treatment plan unique to that individual. To get treatment for your sensitive teeth, contact Dr. Ritchie on his website or call (830) 693-8833.
