With blistering temperatures outside, a refreshing treat of ice cream sounds delicious. But to some, it sounds like torture. Tooth sensitivity can leave us with a foul taste in our mouths rather than enjoying the delights of a tasty treat. Some individuals with sensitivity also experience pain while brushing or flossing their teeth as well. Unwanted pain from sensitivity to coldness can be helped. But first we must know what it is that causes our nerve endings to cry out in pain.
Forceful Brushing
Do you brush your teeth forcefully? Do you use a hard-bristled toothbrush? Both things, separately or combined, result in the gradual wearing down of the enamel of your teeth. The enamel, outer layer of the tooth, protects the inner layer and when worn down exposes the nerve endings in the inner layer of your teeth to the cold, or hot, item you are enjoying, which then results in sensitivity or pain.
Acidic Foods
Do you love acidic foods such as lemons, oranges, or even kiwi? The acid in these and many other foods can break down the enamel on your teeth and expose those nerve endings as well.
Overused Teeth Whitening
Everyone loves a white smile and some of us use whitening toothpaste to get those teeth pearly white. However, the chemicals in the whitening agents can do damage which results in sensitivity as well. For a beautiful smile schedule an appointment for our professional-grade treatments.
Gum Disease & Tooth Decay
Do you brush and floss regularly? Do you make sure you have regular dental cleanings? No, well this may be the culprit behind your sensitivity. Too much plaque build up can cause infections and inflammation in the gums, leading to the receding of the gums and the exposure of nerves and roots. While untreated cavities or fillings can expose nerves as well. Once this damage occurs pain and sensitivity are inevitable.
Teeth Grinding
If you grind your teeth while sleeping, or even absentmindedly during the day, the eventual wear and tear from the grinding will wear down the enamel of the teeth and result in sensitivity.
Tooth Pain Remedies
There is hope for those who wish to enjoy ice cream again this summer and we can help. Make an appointment with us to find out if a fluoride treatment might help with strengthening your teeth enamel, and of course regular check-ups help too. After your appointment remember that healthier brushing habits, such as switching to a soft-bristled toothbrush, lighter brushing, and regular flossing are all first steps in reducing sensitivity. In addition to your appointment removing or limiting the number of acidic foods from your diet may be a first step in your fight against teeth sensitivity. If you find grinding your teeth to be the culprit a mouth guard may be the next step as well. No matter what check in with our team to find the best solutions to repair any damage done to your enamel and start planning that banana split feast.