Taking Care of Your Sensitive Teeth is Important
Tooth sensitivity is often caused due to a combination of factors and is not limited to just one cause. Around 40% of people suffer from tooth sensitivity. Sensitive teeth can be described as having an intense tingling or unpleasant sensation when you consume any hot or cold food and drinks.
Two of the main causes include acid erosion of enamel and gum recession. Treatment of tooth sensitivity hence has to deal with these underlying issues.
Enamel erosion is mainly caused due to brushing too hard or for too long and not brushing adequately or at the right time.
Gum recession can be due to hereditary gum disease, using the wrong kind of toothbrush (always use a soft-bristled brush), and chewing tobacco or smoking, which can cause plaque deposits to form. Any whitening treatments done may cause temporary sensitivity, but it gets better in a few days.
Narrowing the cause down helps to identify which kind of preventive measures can be taken. Treatment of tooth sensitivity involves the use of medicated toothpaste, which can form a protective barrier around the affected tooth to soothe your nerves. This ensures that when you do consume any food at extreme temperatures, you don’t feel any discomfort.
Choosing the right toothpaste is just the first step, however. It is important to have a good approach to general dental hygiene. Treatment of tooth sensitivity can be done if you follow some basic pointers-
Brushing twice a day with a medicated toothpaste.
Do not brush immediately after a meal. Wait an hour, and this will help prevent acid erosion of enamel.
Consume acidic foods less often, and try to use a straw- this also helps keep your teeth whiter and prevents staining.
Don’t forget to schedule a dental check-up every 6 months.