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Have you ever kept away from a hot or cold drink, fearing you may face a chill due to your sensitive teeth? Sensitivity is quite a common concern and occurs when the nerve endings in your teeth get exposed. If you are facing severe sensitivity, it may be high time you consulted your dentist and get the condition treated.

What influences sensitivity?

Brushing aggressively: Brushing the teeth too hard can have an abrasive effect on the teeth, due to which the enamel can erode. Brushing for too long, or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can have the same effect. Hence, it is recommended to use a medium-soft bristled toothbrush and brush at a 45-degree angle to remove the microbes and food debris without damaging the teeth or gums.

Consuming acidic foods and beverages: Consuming a lot of soda, citric fruit juices, sugary carbs, sticky candies, etc. can damage the enamel. Instead, you may snack on fiber-rich food, milk or cheese-based foods, etc.

Clenching the jaw: Clenching the jaw can damage the teeth and inflame the TMJ as well. Grinding the teeth consciously or subconsciously can erode the enamel and expose the nerve endings, which increases sensitivity.

Bleaching too frequently: Bleaching the teeth or getting them whitened too frequently can increase sensitivity. Thankfully, sensitivity caused due to bleaching is temporary, and it is always advisable to consult your dentist before getting the whitening done.

Gum diseases: Gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis can lead to a receding gum line, which exposes the underlying root surface. The tooth roots are usually more sensitive than the tooth crowns, which can lead to a sharp chill when you consume hot or cold foods. It is best to get gum diseases treated at the earliest to avoid hypersensitivity and a lot of other oral concerns.

How can sensitivity be treated?

Some of the simple ways to treat hypersensitivity are as follows:

• Use a sensitivity toothpaste instead of your regular one
• Get a fluoride therapy done
• Get composite resin applied on the exposed root surfaces
• Get a customized mouthguard to protect your teeth from excessive wear due to bruxism

If you do not experience relief from sensitivity after incorporating these remedies, you may have to reach out to your dentist and get the teeth diagnosed more extensively.

Please call us at 408-988-7788 or schedule an online appointment, and we’ll be happy to assist you with your dental concerns.