Tooth sensitivity is very common and can be a very painful and annoying problem. While people of all ages can experience tooth sensitivity, it mainly affects people between the ages of 25 to 30. Luckily, with these tips on how to care for your teeth and some help from Affinity Dental, your sensitivity issues can subside over time.
Causes
Although sensitive teeth can occur for many reasons, the most common causes are from tooth enamel erosion and recession of the gum line. The gum lines and enamel protect the layer beneath the tooth enamel called the dentin. When hot or cold foods and drinks hit the dentin while the enamel is eroded or the gum line is receded, it’s common to feel jolts of pain.
Try A New Toothpaste
There are many kinds of toothpaste on the market that cater specifically to sensitive gums and teeth and can help diminish sensitivity when regularly used on a soft-bristled toothbrush. Dentist recommended toothpaste for sensitive teeth or gum include Sensodyne, Colgate Sensitive Complete Protection Toothpaste, and Aquafresh Sensitive Toothpaste. These kinds of toothpaste include potassium nitrate as an anti-sensitivity agent that helps build tolerance for hot, cold or sugary food and drinks. They also contain fluoride, which promotes healthy gums and plaque removal.
Fluoride
While most kinds of toothpaste contain fluoride, incorporating a daily fluoride rinse into your oral hygiene routine can help repair enamel and have a bigger impact on minimizing your teeth sensitivity. Also, if your mouthwash doesn’t have the effect you’d like, your dentist can likely prescribe something stronger.
Be Wary Of Acidic Foods
Foods that are high in acid, sugar and even starch can do more damage to teeth that are already sensitive. It’s best to try to eat these foods as little as possible, but if you do eat these types of foods, be sure to brush your teeth immediately after you eat. Also, chewing sugarless gum accelerates saliva production, which replenishes protective minerals for your teeth. Lastly, drinking tap water instead of bottled water can help, since tap water contains fluoride.
Keep Your Smile Healthy with Affinity
While these tips can help with some tooth and gum sensitivity issues, we know the best way of correcting the problem is to visit your dentist regularly. Affinity Dental has six dentists and provides a variety of services from pediatric dentistry to orthodontics. Affinity Dental is capable of meeting all your needs. With 170 combined years of treating a variety of dental needs, Affinity is committed to providing quality dental care. To get your teeth back into good health and make your smile bright, call us at 410-719-7900 or contact us online. For other useful tips on dental care follow us on Facebook.
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