Sensitive Teeth? 13 Ways to Help Your Tooth Pain

When you have sensitive teeth, certain activities like drinking hot or cold drinks and even brushing your teeth feel painful. Usually, the sensitivity presents as a sharp pain that is sometimes referred to as a “zinger-type sensation.” The tooth pain usually disappears as quickly as it came on, but it can be annoying and uncomfortable.

This sensitivity is often brought about by worn enamel as it exposes the more vulnerable underlayers of your teeth. Tooth sensitivity can also be brought on by more severe causes such as cracked or chipped teeth, gum disease, and cavities.

If you have sensitive teeth, it is always good to have your dentist check them. While a little cold sensitivity may not seem like a big deal, it could be if an infection or fractured tooth is causing it. Once your dentist rules out any significant issues related to your sensitivity, they will likely suggest some options for dealing with sensitive teeth. As you can see below, there are many different options for helping with your tooth pain!

Desensitizing Toothpaste

Desensitizing kinds of toothpaste contain an active ingredient, such as potassium nitrate, which helps to protect the dentin tubules in your teeth by inhibiting the sensitivity message. The trick with desensitizing toothpaste is that it must be used continuously to be effective. Brushing with them for a few days and then switching back to regular toothpaste will probably allow the sensitivity to reappear.

Bonding Exposed Root Surfaces

Exposed root surfaces mean that the dentin tubules of your tooth are susceptible to extreme temperature changes and movement. Using a dental material and bonding these areas helps to protect the tooth from sensitivity.

Surgical Gum Graft

Sometimes when recession or gum disease is an issue, a surgical gum graft may be an option for treatment. A surgical gum graft is more involved than many of these over-the-counter remedies but can also be very successful.

Root Canal

A root canal is a dental procedure that removes the nerve and blood supply from within your tooth. This procedure is necessary when a tooth has become infected. Often when there is an infection, there is pain. Addressing the condition and then removing this tissue should alleviate the pain that your tooth is causing.

Crown

If a tooth is cracked, it may be causing some sensitivity. Often, a cracked tooth can benefit from a crown because it will be placed over the top of the entire tooth and keep it from splaying when chewing food.

Adjust Filling

Sometimes a filling that is not adjusted properly can cause sensitivity. Having your dentist adjust your filling may help your tooth to calm down, and the sensitivity goes away.

Use Mouth Guard At Night

Clenching or grinding your teeth at night can lead to sensitivity. If this is the case, your dentist can make you a mouthguard to wear at night, which may help reduce sensitivity.

Use Soft-Bristled Toothbrush

Brushing with a hard-bristled toothbrush can lead to abrasion or the wear of your gum tissue or teeth. This wear can lead to your teeth being more sensitive. We recommend that all of our patients brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush.

Fluoride Varnish

Fluoride varnish treatments can be painted on the surfaces of your teeth to allow your teeth to uptake the fluoride. This helps strengthen your teeth, but it can also help with sensitivity, especially near root surfaces.

Avoid Hot Temperature Food And Drinks

If you find that consuming food or drinks of hot temperature are bothering your teeth, it is recommended that you let them cool down a little before sipping them.

Avoid Cold Temperature Food And Drinks

Sometimes cold temperatures can cause zingy sensations on your teeth. If you notice this, avoiding icy drinks and food like ice cream may be beneficial.

Using A Fluoride Mouthrinse

If you are experiencing sensitive teeth, swishing routinely with a fluoride mouth rinse can also help reduce sensitivity.

Routine Dental Visits

Routine dental cleanings and exams are one of the best ways to be proactive in keeping your teeth healthy and feeling their best! For best oral health, we recommend that our patients visit us twice a year.

Are you struggling with sensitive teeth? Visit us and talk to our dental team about what may be the best solution to put an end to your sensitivity.