The Best Ways to Combat Tooth Sensitivity

To reduce tooth sensitivity, you should start with good oral hygiene. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth two times a day.

Be gentle when brushing to avoid enamel erosion and gum recession. Floss daily to get rid of plaque and food particles between your teeth and along your gumline. Consider using antiseptic mouthwash to eliminate bacteria and freshen your breath.

Avoid Acidic Foods and Drinks

Tooth enamel can be damaged by acidic foods and drinks, which can lead to tooth sensitivity. It is recommended to limit your consumption of acidic items such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, pickles, vinegar, soda, and sports drinks.

If you do consume acidic items, rinsing your mouth with water immediately afterward can help neutralize the acid.

Use a Desensitizing Toothpaste

Desensitizing toothpaste can help block the pain signals that cause tooth sensitivity. Look for a toothpaste that contains potassium nitrate or strontium chloride, which can help reduce sensitivity over time.

It may take several weeks of consistent use to see results, so be patient and stick with it.

Consider Fluoride Treatments

To make your tooth enamel stronger and reduce sensitivity, fluoride treatments can be used.

You can have a fluoride gel or varnish applied to your teeth by your dentist during your visit or you can use a fluoride mouthwash at home. It’s best to consult with your dentist to find out which fluoride treatment suits you best.

Wear a Nightguard

Using a nightguard can help prevent damage to your tooth enamel caused by grinding your teeth at night.

You can get a custom-fitted nightguard from your dentist or buy an over-the-counter one at a drugstore to reduce sensitivity and protect your teeth.

Tooth sensitivity can occur when gum recession exposes the roots of your teeth. If your dentist determines that your gum recession is severe, they may suggest a gum graft to restore the gum tissue.

However, if the gum recession is mild to moderate, you can often manage it with better oral hygiene and use of a desensitizing toothpaste.

Get a Dental Checkup

If you have persistent or severe tooth sensitivity, it’s important to visit your dentist for a checkup. Your dentist will examine your teeth and gums to identify the underlying cause of the sensitivity.

Your dentist may suggest a filling, crown, or other dental treatment based on the cause, to relieve your symptoms.

Consider Sealants

Dental sealants are a type of thin plastic coating that is placed onto the back teeth’s chewing surfaces. They help to prevent tooth decay and reduce sensitivity by keeping bacteria and food particles out.

During a regular dental appointment, sealants can be applied, and they can last for several years.

Limit Teeth Whitening Treatments

If you’re thinking about getting teeth whitening treatment, it’s important to know that it can lead to tooth sensitivity. This can be more likely if the treatment is done too often or if a high concentration of bleach is used.

To figure out the best treatment options for your teeth and to check if you are a good candidate for whitening, it’s a good idea to talk to your dentist.

Maintain a Healthy Diet

Eating a balanced diet that includes calcium-rich foods such as dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified cereals can improve your dental health and decrease tooth sensitivity.

Calcium is necessary for strong teeth and bones, and not having enough of it can raise your odds of developing gum disease and tooth decay.

Additionally, you should also consume foods that are high in vitamin D, such as fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified milk, because vitamin D aids your body’s calcium absorption.

To maintain good oral health, it is important to not only consume calcium and vitamin D, but also to incorporate a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your diet. These foods are rich in fiber that can assist in eliminating plaque and reducing the risk of tooth decay.

However, it is suggested to limit the intake of sugary and starchy foods like candy, soda, and potato chips as they can lead to an increased risk of cavities and gum disease.