It’s a typical winter day in Putnam, which means there is snow on the ground and chilling winds blowing. From time-to-time, you notice that when you open your mouth, you feel an uncomfortable sensation that radiates through one of your teeth. You’d like to know the reason for this so you can address it. Your dentist in Putnam provides those answers and also explains what can be done to restore your oral health to normal.
Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
Your teeth can become sensitive for several reasons. The following lists some of the more common contributors:
- Worn Enamel – The enamel is the hard, outer surface of your teeth. While it is the strongest material in the human body, it can still be damaged and leave the more sensitive nerves exposed. A prime contributor is brushing your teeth too vigorously.
- Tooth Erosion – If you consume an abundance of products like orange juice, lemonade or other highly acidic items, then it can cause enamel erosion and occasional discomfort.
- Tooth Decay – The enamel has no nerves it in, but over time, bacteria can bore tiny holes called cavities that, if not treated, will eventually reach the dentin area that lies beneath it. Because this layer contains nerves, there can be sensitivity to cold or hot temperatures.
- Teeth Grinding – Also called bruxism, teeth grinding can lead to the rapid degradation of your tooth material, which can leave it vulnerable to pain sensations.
How to Treat Sensitive Teeth
The first step in getting relief for tooth sensitivity is to identify the reason for the discomfort. Try to identify what triggers any pain, as it could be an indicator of the underlying cause. Then, be sure to visit your dentist for an examination to eliminate any guessing.
The possible solutions offered by your dentist can range from a filling to a fluoride treatment to better fortify your enamel.
Changes in Oral Hygiene Practices
Along with visiting your local dentist for a check-up, here are some best practices to integrate into your oral hygiene regimen to reduce dental sensitivity:
- Carefully clean your teeth using a toothbrush with soft bristles.
- Look for toothpaste that is developed for more sensitive teeth.
- Be sure to wait at least half an hour after eating to perform oral hygiene, especially if you have consumed more acidic foods.
A final tip to keep in mind is to not “sweat the small stuff.” That simply means to be cognizant of your emotions at all times so you don’t allow stress to either, consciously or subconsciously, encourage you to clench or grind your teeth.
When anxiety strikes, a simple remedy is to take a deep breath and exhale, which slows the heart rate and allows you to regain control of your mind and emotions. By implementing these strategies and seeking the professional help of your Putnam dentist, you can enjoy the best in oral health.
About the Author
Dr. Walter McGinn is a graduate of the prestigious Harvard School of Dental Medicine. He has since gone on to provide over 20 years of expert care to the residents of Putnam and the surrounding areas. Elected to the Pierre Fouchard Academy, which is an international organization that links the top dentists in the world, Dr. McGinn is passionate about maintaining a standard of excellence. He helps patients recover from tooth sensitivity and other dental challenges at his private practice, and he can be reached for more information through his website.