Dentist Castle Hill
Ever have teeth that feel painful when exposed to hot or cold temperatures? These are sensitive teeth. There are several ways that teeth can become sensitive.
Thin Enamel
If the enamel on the surface of our teeth becomes too thin the tooth becomes sensitive feeling painful when we drink hot tea or eat cold ice cream.
Enamel becomes thin if it is brushed too hard, it we have often used a stiff bristle toothbrush, or if we habitually consume acidic drinks or foods. The nerve inside of the tooth becomes sensitive to outside temperatures because there is very little tooth enamel to provide insulation. So it directly feels the temperature of what we eat and drink.
Brushing too soon after meals.
Tooth Enamel can become thin over time if we are in the habit of brushing straight after meals. It would seem to be good advice to brush straight after meals. But unfortunately some acidic drinks and food will temporarily soften the enamel. So when we brush the plaque and food away we brush the enamel too!
It is best to wait 30 minutes after eating t brush. drink water after meals to clean teeth and dilute the acidic content of the mouth.
Receding Gums
If our gums recede, because of poor dental habits, gum disease or perhaps old age, the roots of the teeth are exposed. This makes the teeth sensitive to hot and cold.
Damaged and Decayed Teeth
A cavity or crack will make a tooth sensitive to hot and cold. This will only affect a single tooth, but often in a very painful way.
A damaged tooth will need to be treated by a dentist.
Treating Sensitive Teeth
- There are several toothpastes designed for treating teeth that are already sensitive. Sensodyne in one brand. These need to be used for several week before they start to work. Do not rinse after use – leave the toothpaste on the teeth.
- Diligently brush twice a day. Use mouthwash. And Floss once per day.
- Brush gently with a soft bristle toothbrush.
- Wait 30 minutes after eating and drinking before brushing, because tooth enamel is softened by some food and drinks.
- Avoid acidic and sugary drinks like soda and fruit juice.
- Drink plenty of water, especially after eating and drinking.
- Chew sugar free gum, especially with Xylitol, to keep teeth clean.
- Fluoride on the teeth and calcium in the diet will help strengthen tooth enamel, preventing sensitivity.
- Avoid teeth whitening products, at least for the time being. These can make teeth more sensitive.
Castle Hill Dentist
Sensitive teeth are an on going problem. Diligent cleaning will greatly reduce the risk of developing sensitive teeth. Any teeth already damaged will need to be looked after by the dentist.
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