Teeth Feeling Sensitive? Learn About the Causes and Prevention Methods
Do you avoid eating foods that are extremely hot or cold because it bothers your teeth? If so, you are one of many people who experience tooth sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity can range from a mild twinge on occasion to extreme discomfort when eating or drinking anything cold or hot. This discomfort can make it challenging to enjoy a frozen treat on a hot summer day or a steaming cup of hot chocolate during one of NY’s many winter snowstorms. The good news is that teeth sensitivity can be treated and you can enjoy your favorite hot and cold foods and beverages again.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity
It is not uncommon to experience some form of sensitivity from time to time. It can become alarming if sensitivity is being noticed on a more frequent basis. This is an indication and warning from your mouth that you may be experiencing an issue that needs to be evaluated. For those who experience sensitivity regularly, there could be a number of reasons you are experiencing discomfort:
- Worn tooth enamel from grinding your teeth or brushing too aggressively
- Consuming too many acidic foods
- Tooth decay
- A cracked tooth or missing filling
- Receding gums or exposed tooth root
- Gum disease
Ways to Prevent Sensitive Teeth
If you are concerned with developing sensitive teeth, there are small changes that can be made to help keep your teeth healthy:
- Be sure to brush and floss thoroughly, making sure the clean all areas of the teeth
- Brush teeth using a soft-bristled toothbrush, taking care to brush with gentle strokes
- and change when it becomes worn
- Avoid overconsuming acidic or carbonated beverages
- Use a toothpaste designed to help sensitive teeth
- If you grind your teeth, speak to our office about a mouthguard
- Reconsider using over-the-counter whitening products
If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity and it has become bothersome or you are concerned, please reach out to our office located in Canandaigua, NY to schedule an appointment. We will be happy to meet with you to evaluate your symptoms. See you soon!
