Sensitive teeth often result from worn teeth enamel or exposed tooth roots. If you have sensitive teeth, brushing, flossing, eating and drinking hot or cold can cause sharp temporary pain in your teeth.
Avoid discomfort from sensitive teeth and smile again. Here are effective ways to treat this common problem.
Hidden causes
Sometimes the pain is caused by factors almost invisible to the naked eye: a cavity, a newly installed filling, a chipped or cracked tooth, or a side effect from dental procedures such as teeth whitening.
When sensitive teeth bother you, make an appointment with your dentist. He will determine or rule out any underlying cause of tooth pain and will make the most appropriate recommendation.
Desensitizing toothpaste
Sometimes using a desensitizing toothpaste obtained in store can help block the pain associated with sensitive teeth. Expect several applications before desensitizing your painful teeth. Most people see improvement within 7 to 10 days. Procure only toothpastes bearing the CDA Seal (Canadian Dental Association) that meet safety and efficiency criteria.
Fluoride
Fluoride works wonders and can become an important part of your dental care routine. The dentist may apply a fluoride varnish on sensitive areas of your teeth to strengthen enamel and reduce pain. He could also suggest the use of fluoride at home. Simply choose fluoridated mouthwashes and toothpastes in stores.
Applying a resin
Occasionally, the dentist can treat painful exposed teeth roots surfaces by applying a protective resin on the sensitive areas. Your dentist will inform you if a local anaesthetic is required for this operation.
Surgical gum graft
If your pain originates from a gum recession area with part of a root exposed, the dentist could graft a special membrane that will compensate for the receding gum. This delicate operation promotes the regeneration of the gum, protects the previously exposed root and reduces teeth sensitivity.
Root canal treatment
If your sensitive teeth still cause great pain after treatments, your dentist may recommend a root canal, a procedure used to treat hypersensitized dental pulp having passed the stage of no return. While this treatment may be perceived as impressive, it is considered the most effective technique to eliminate tooth sensitivity. It must be used with certain reservations as it is definitive.
Nocturnal teeth grinding
If you grind your teeth in your sleep, ask your dentist if you should wear a night guard (also called nocturnal bite plate) to protect teeth from grinding and prevent damage. Teeth grinding can cause chips, cracks and sensitivity in teeth.
Soft-bristled toothbrush
To clean your mouth without damaging your teeth and gums, it is recommended you use a soft-bristled toothbrush. If you don’t brush with the force you use scrubbing kitchen pots, you can keep your teeth enamel in pristine condition. Brush gently around the gum line so you don’t remove gum tissue.
Avoid acidic foods and drinks
Consider limiting acidic foods and beverages to avoid cringing at every meal. Food and beverages can increase acid erosion and tooth sensitivity. It is recommended to moderately consume carbonated or diet drinks,citrus fruits, tomatoes, pickles, tea, wine (especially white) all of which can wear down teeth enamel over time.
Do you know the straw trick?
When you drink acidic liquids, use a straw to limit liquid contact with your teeth. After eating or drinking an acidic substance, drink milk or water to balance the acid content in the mouth.
Good dental hygiene
However, if you believe you have done everything for your sensitive teeth but you still can’t bite into a cold crisp apple, you should consult with a specialist. The dentist will assess the quality of your dental care and will help determine how to reduce your teeth sensitivity. Good dental hygiene prevents gums from receding, thus avoiding teeth sensitivity.
One last quick tip
Refrain from brushing your teeth immediately after eating or drinking acidic substances. In fact, high acid content foods and drinks soften teeth enamel and make it more vulnerable to erosion during brushing.
If the pain associated to sensitive teeth persists, call (819) 770-3636 or email a request for an examination with dentists Dr. Côté or Dr. Dubois.
Plan your appointment after checking our long accommodating opening hours.
Approuvé par Dr Côté
