Dealing with sensitivity each time you sink your teeth into that cold scoop of ice cream, bite into an apple, or simply sip your tea can be a downright pain when these simple pleasures in life become nuisances that you try to avoid. If you’re one of the millions of Canadians who suffer from sensitive teeth, it could be time to bite the bullet and address it. There could be a variety of factors that are causing your sensitivity, which means there could be a solution and end to your suffering. Here’s everything you need to know about those delicate white pearls.
Triggers
Unfortunately, when it comes to your teeth, there are a variety of sources that can be triggering your tooth pain. From your most basic daily habits to the bleaching of your teeth – the triggers can be countless. And of course, it could be a combination of many, not just one. Some of the more common triggers that are found as the root to tooth sensitivity include cracked fillings, gum infection, poor oral hygiene, aggressive brushing, acidic foods and beverages, and even dehydration.
In order to determine what some of your triggers may be, it can help to take a mental note each time of what you did, drank, or ate prior to the sensitivity occurring. This way you can determine what in particular could be causing it. But if it’s a sensation that occurs more severely and often, it could be a more serious matter, which means it’s time to check in with your dentist so they can take a look.
Treatment
The good part about tooth sensitivity is that it generally only last momentarily. The bad news is that it could mean that you simply need to avoid certain activities, drinks, or triggers such as whitening strips that can weaken your enamel. If you feel sensitive in the mornings and your jaw seems to slightly ache, this could highlight a problem with grinding your teeth subconsciously while you sleep. In this case, your dentist can easily address this issue by providing you with a mouth guard.
Even if it’s a mild aggravation, you don’t have to suffer in silence. There are a variety of solutions your dentist can recommend to help ease and even eliminate the pain, such as fixing exposed roots, recommending toothpaste, and replacing old fillings.
Relief
There are, of course, a few handy tips you can use during some of those pesky flare-ups. If cold or hot liquids are your nemesis, try using a straw so that the liquid can bypass your teeth. Avoid using harsh, over-the-counter whitening strips often as they can easily wear away your enamel, and try to reduce your in-take of acidic beverages and food as well.
Monitor tooth sensitivity when it occurs in order to determine your trigger, and always visit your dentist for more severe sensitivity so that you can get back enjoying the things that you love.
Visit Carlingwood Dental Centre for your next dental appointment!
