Managing Tooth Sensitivity

Sensitive teeth can be so painful and, if untreated long enough, can even begin to interfere with your life. Teeth can be sensitive to hot or cold foods and drinks, sugary food and candy, or even air touching teeth can cause pain. In most cases, this is because the enamel o your tooth, which serves as protection, has worn down, exposing your tooth’s sensitive nerve endings.

Fortunately, there are ways to reduce tooth sensitivity, which we’ve listed below, so you can go back to eating and drinking whatever you’d like, pain free!

• The best, most cost effective place to start is by switching to toothpaste made for sensitive teeth. There are several different brands, but check for the active ingredient Potassium Nitrate, which helps to block these nerve endings.
• Avoid acid. Foods or drinks that are too acidic can wreak havoc on your enamel. These include soda, juices, pickles, and red wines. If you just can’t live without the acidic foods, make sure you’re brushing right after eating them, so the acid doesn’t have a chance to attack your enamel.
• You could be brushing too vigorously, which can actually wear away the enamel protecting your teeth. Try going a little gentler with the toothbrush and make sure you’re brushing for a full two minutes.
• Consider sealants. Sealants are made of clear liquid plastic or resin, which is then “painted” onto your teeth, forming a protective barrier. Sealants are highly effective, but wear off over time, so they’ll need to be reapplied.

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