Do you have sensitive teeth? If so, you're not alone. An estimated 1 in 8 Americans have sensitive teeth - or more properly, "dentin sensitivity." In some cases, this is actually caused by undiagnosed cavities or other dental issues which can be corrected, but sometimes, people just have sensitive teeth and it's something they have to live with.
Here are a few tips for dealing with sensitive teeth, and to help reduce damage to them over the years.
Living with Sensitive Teeth
1 - Ask for specialized toothpaste
While they aren't typically available in stores, aside from some drug stores, kinds of toothpaste exist which are specially formulated for sensitive teeth. They can actually help reduce pain by filling in the little gaps in your tooth dentin that contribute to the sensitivity.
If you can't find some, just ask your dentist.
2 - Avoid acidic foods
Foods with a lot of acidity - including colas, coffee, and anything with citrus - can eat away at the enamel on the teeth. This is bad for anyone, but can be particularly painful for people with sensitive teeth, as well as potentially making the problem worse.
If you don't want to give up on acidic drinks, try drinking through a straw so that the liquid goes straight to the back of your throat. It might feel "wrong" drinking coffee or tea this way, but your teeth will appreciate it!
3 - Never use "whitening" toothpastes
Honestly, off-the-shelf whitening toothpaste is just bad for your teeth. These toothpastes have strong bleaches and extra grit, and basically remove the upper layer of enamel on the teeth. This can be harmful for anyone but, again, it's particularly bad for people with sensitive teeth.
If you need your teeth whitened, go to the dentist for a professional session. It's quick, safe, and easy, and one of the most affordable cosmetic dental treatments available.
4 - Do you also grind your teeth? See a dentist!
Tooth-grinding, called bruxism, can make sensitive teeth much more painful. If you wake up in the morning feeling like your teeth are sore, or with a clenched jaw, your dentist may be able to help. Solutions are available, such as mouth guards, which prevent your teeth from grinding against each other at night.
In short, living with sensitive teeth requires some lifestyle adjustments, but it doesn't have to mean a life of pain. Contact Plainsboro Dental Care at 609-799-4422 for more tips and advice!