Culprits to Blame for Your Tooth Sensitivity
Do you wince every time when brushing or flossing? You could be suffering from tooth sensitivity. From acidic foodstuffs to certain toothpastes, the following are some of the reasons that explain why you may well be grappling with this dental problem and what actions you should perform to alleviate the pain.
Brushing your teeth with a lot of gusto
Tooth sensitivity may be as a result of brushing with a lot of force or using a hard-bristled toothbrush. Ultimately, what follows is the collapse of the defensive shell of your teeth, thus exposing the minute hollow tubes that traverse to your oral nerves. Exposure of these tubules to hot, cold or acidic foods often leads to tooth sensitivity as well as soreness. A dentist would recommend that you start using a soft-bristled toothbrush and to apply less force when brushing or flossing.
Intake of acidic foods
As a result of the exposure of the canals that lead to your oral nerves, lemon, kiwi, tomato sauce and grapefruit, among other types of acidic foods, can result in dental pain. The best solution is to steer clear of such acidic foods and allow only intake of food items that will not inflict pain.
You have the habit of teeth grinding
Some people have developed the bad habit of grinding their teeth. Teeth grinding can lead to the disintegration of your enamel, despite the fact that it's the toughest substance inside your body. Grinding your teeth basically exposes the dentin, the central part of the teeth, which features the hollow canals that pass through to your oral nerves. Seek the advice of your dentist regarding a suitable mouth guard to help you stop grinding your teeth. Your dentist will recommend a custom-made guard to match your dental formula.
Too much plaque
The goal of brushing and flossing is to eliminate the plaque that build up after food intake. Extreme buildup of plaque may lead to the disintegration of your enamel. Again, the loss of enamel protection is a precursor to tooth sensitivity. Your dentist will advise you to practice daily oral care, which includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day.
You're suffering from gum disease
The problem of receding gums, which often becomes common with old age particularly if you have not been keen with your oral health, can lead to tooth sensitivity. With gingivitis or gum disease, your dentist may recommend a dental procedure to plug your teeth as well as cure the gum malady itself.
In conclusion, only an office appointment with your dentist can ascertain the real reason behind your tooth sensitivity and the ultimate solution for your specific situation.