Tooth sensitivity is no fun, especially for you ice cream lovers out there. Many different things can set it off, from a cold drink a hot meal, so it can become more than a minor annoyance really fast. The good news is there are steps you can take to relieve your tooth sensitivity, allowing you to drink smoothies again without flinching.

What causes tooth sensitivity?

It’s good to understand the cause of tooth sensitivity before you take steps to fix it. Essentially, it is the result of the enamel on your teeth being worn down and exposing your dentin, which has sensitive nerve endings running through them. Unfortunately, tooth sensitivity can stem from a few different reasons.

• Aggressive tooth brushing
• Periodontal (gum) disease
• Tooth decay
• Grinding your teeth

The reason for sensitive teeth can vary from person to person, so it is important to pinpoint which one is causing yours.

Change your brushing habits

Are you brushing with a hard bristled toothbrush and scrubbing aggressively? If so you should buy a soft toothbrush and change your brushing technique to be less harsh. Hard brushing can also promote receding gums, which is another culprit for sensitive teeth. There are many brands of toothpaste designed to help with sensitive teeth, try one and use it regularly. Every little thing helps!

Treat any gum disease

There are many different kinds of bacteria in your mouth, and sometimes the wrong kind will stick to your gums and cause them pain, swelling, and eventually infection. Gum disease can also cause receding gums. Periodontal disease should be treated by a professional dentist like Dr. Walkington to ensure the bacteria is removed completely.

Prevent tooth decay

Tooth decay is the leading cause of dental problems. Irregular brushing and flossing, genetics, sugary and acidic foods are all reasons you could be experiencing tooth decay. Cutting out the bad food and maintaining proper oral hygiene are easy steps to help prevent it, and routine examinations with Dr. Walkington will help keep your mouth healthy by pinpointing trouble areas before they develop.

Stop grinding your teeth

Grinding your teeth is a sure fire way to wear down their protective enamel. Some people don’t even realize they are grinding their teeth at night. Grinding your teeth can also cause headaches and jaw pain. Wearing a nightgaurd at night will prevent any damage, and if you notice you are grinding your teeth throughout the day make sure you stop and find other ways to relieve stress, like a stress ball or a 5 minute walk.

Ultimately, if you have sensitive teeth, an appointment with a dental care professional like Dr. Walkington will set you on the right track. He will help you pinpoint the issue and give you the right treatment for pain-free teeth, no matter how cold your ice cream may be!